'When Smokey sings' was a comeback single of sorts for the band ABC. It was released as the first single from their fourth album 'Alphabet city' and their first big hit since 'All of my heart' almost five years previous.The song's title refers to Smokey Robinson and is a tribute to this Sixties soul crooner. In the album version of the song, references are made to 'Luther', 'Sly', 'James' and 'Marvin' (most likely referring to Luther Vandross, Sly & the Family Stone, James Brown, and Marvin Gaye respectively). In the single version, this is replaced by alternate lyrics, followed by a short saxophone solo.
My collection: 7" single no. 4965
Found: Sister Ray, London, October 31, 2010
Cost: 2 pounds
Tracks: 'When Smokey sings' / 'Chicago (part 1)'
I was wrong about my memories about ABC. I remember reading a uk chart of the german magazine "Pop corn" with "That Was Then But This Is Now" on the top 10 but it was only 18th on the official charts. I supposed "Be Near Me" did better in the english market but we mustn't forget that it was the first US top 10 for ABC. BNM - no. 9 in 1985; WSS - no. 5 in 1987.
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