Give More Power To The People - THE CHI-LITES***

Yes I'm Ready (If I Don't Get To Go)/We Are Neighbours/I Want To Pay You Back/Have You Seen Her/Give More Power To The People/Love Uprising/Trouble's A Comin'/You Got Me Walkin'/What Do I Wish For

The follow up album from the Chicago soul group The Chi-Lites Give More Power To The People delivered their commercial breakthrough. Unlike the simplistic message of the title track the US and US No. 3 hit single Have You Seen Her was a romantic number. (US:12)

“The Chi-Lites were already one of the more popular soul groups by the time 1971 rolled around. Eugene's high voice and the beautiful four part harmonies put this group on the map. Lush arrangements, fun songs and everything expertly produced - the Chi-Lites were competing with the best of Detroit, Philly and Memphis when they really hit.”

“1971 was the year where even those who were never political before were taking action. Politics was selling and soul groups all around were speaking their mind. The Chi-Lites channelled Sly & The Family Stone as well as anybody on We Are Neighbours which is just awesome funk music and a chorus that you can't help but become a part of. Other places are more sweet soul music, but the production really shines here.”

“It might not be one of the all-time great soul records and it's definitely not as heavy or personal sounding as some of the others from this year, but it's a great blend of pop, funk and soul. A record that most soul fans should have and love.”

“This is the album that made them huge stars, with the huge hit Have You Seen Her, which has to rank very high amongst my favourite songs of all time. With Yes I'm Ready, I couldn't think of a better song to put as the b-side to that soul classic. Overall, there is plenty to enjoy here. It is a unique album in that much of it revolves around social commentary of the day.”

“Power To The People was stone cold perfect, alternating the sweet soul they ultimately became known for with thumping chunks of Sly-influenced proto-funk.”

“I'd always heard that they were a smooth soul group and was pleasantly surprised to hear some Sly-influenced tracks like Give More Power. Also, I liked the fact that the bass voice was an integral part of the group sound. These four guys were not merely a lead singer star with just support harmonies. They functioned as a group.”