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The 5th Dimension – California Soul (1969 Charted #49 R&B & #25 Pop)
Recorded in 1968 for their “Stone Soul Picnic” album on Buddah records, “California Soul” was the third hit single released from the LP after “Stoned Soul Picnic” and “Sweet Blindness”. This classic set charted #10 R&B and #21 Pop and showcased the fabulous harmonies of the group.
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Marlena Shaw – California Soul (1969)
Jazz vocalist Marlena Shaw covered this Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson song for her 1969 “Spice of Life” LP on the Cadet label. I could find no record of the song or the album charting but BOTH the song and the LP are classic IMHO. Don’t you think so too?
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Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – California Soul (1969)
This Motown cover is from the duo’s third and final LP “Easy.” It’s highest rating was only #184 on Billboard’s pop album chart but I still love this set and the “CS” cover.
It wasn’t until very recently that I learned that, since this LP was completed during Miss Terrell’s illness, some of the vocals on some of the songs were sung by Valerie Simpson. Upon closer listening I can hear the difference, but nevertheless I like the entire album and this song is definitely blessed with the Motown sound.
Please enjoy the music and then vote on which you prefer below.
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Filed under: Buddah, Cadet, California Soul, Marlena Shaw, Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Motown Covers Pop, Motown/Tamla, Nick Ashford & Valerie Simpson, Pop/Jazz, Pop/R&B, Sixties, The 5th Dimension
