Rufus feat. Chaka Khan | Rags to Rufus (1974)
Rufus featuring Chaka Khan
Rags to Rufus
By Jerry "The Mouse" Clark
By Jerry "The Mouse" Clark
Timeless, eternal, everlasting, ageless are adjectives used to describe Rags to Rufus. The day I purchased this lp was the day I discovered the sound of Chaka Khan. Her voice set the bar to many future sirens to my listening ear. Not only the voice of Chaka but the band was composed phenomenal musicians and songwriters.
The funky bass licks, guitar wah wah, snare drum and the voice (Chaka) on “You Got the Love” were the first impressions that created the fan that I am. When listening to this track I see the vision of Chaka’s shimmy moves and the band throwing down the vibe. In true Chicago style the boy’s and the girl lay a bit of blues on you with “I Got the Right Street” and “Walkin’ in the Sun”. Although not eliminating their jazzy side on the next track with the jazz/funk instrumental “Rags to Rufus” which showcases the versatility of Rufus.
Taking you to church Windy City style “Swing Down Chariot” will make any congregation jump, shot and praise. We are just half way thru the lp and my opinion is “this package is complete” for real. Chaka gives it to you in true form belting out a good cry with “Ain’t Nothing but a Maybe”. She is so amazing when sings those treat me right songs.
The song that is sticks in the heads of young folks today is “Tell Me Something Good” is the center piece of this undying classic. Chaka states that she doesn’t take foolishness and she’s your match. Wrapping up the lp is one of the most requested tunes on my radio show “Smokin Room”. I just hit replay button over and over, I have to admit that “this track is my all-time favorite Rufus song” (That gave me chills making that statement). Don’t live out your life without owning a copy of this music industry treasure.
Enjoy!
Rufus is:
Dennis Belfield – back ground vocals, bass, string and horn arrangements
Andre Fisher – drums, percussion and background vocals
Kevin Murphy – organ, clavinet and back ground vocals
Al Ciner – electric & acoustic guitars, back ground vocals and string and horn arrangements
Ron Stockert – lead vocals, keyboards, back ground vocals and string and horn arrangements
Chaka Khan – lead vocals, background vocals
Jerry “The Mouse” Clark
Mellow Madness Music
Posted by Administration at 2/8/2011 12:02 AM 
Categories: Funk, Rhythm and Blues, Old School Soul, Videos
Tags: 70s Music Music Videos
Categories: Funk, Rhythm and Blues, Old School Soul, Videos
Tags: 70s Music Music Videos
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