Loleatta: Expanded Edition

Originally issued in March 1977, Loleatta was the singer's debut release for Philly soul guitarist Norman Harris' Goldmine label distributed by NY-based Salsoul Records. It was both produced in Chicago by her husband Floyd Smith and in Philadelphia through Baker-Harris-Young Productions. The LP boasted Holloway's highest-charting R&B single, the Sam Dees ballad "Worn Out Broken Heart," and the dance classics "Hit and Run" and "Dreamin'." The former has two extended alternate "jam session" takes that are found on the original 12" pressings baring the Goldmind logo. One of the takes is on Original Salsoul Classics: The 20th Anniversary and is sometimes found on CD reissues of the LP. Another passion-soaked ballad, "What Now," a Curtis Mayfield song, received radio play as an album track. The upbeat "We're Getting Stronger (The Longer We Stay)" has a smokin' rhythm break. A Satoshi Tomiie remix of "Dreamin'" issued by Salsoul/The Right Stuff/EMI topped Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart on December 9, 2000. ~ Ed Hogan