BeatSession 11|28|11

The Original Sample:

Goin’ in Circles by Carolyn Franklin

Every blog, article, and bio about Carolyn Franklin talks about how hard it must’ve been living in the shadow of her older sister, Aretha. Let’s shed some light. Sure, Aretha is referred to as the Queen of Soul, is considered one of the greatest singers of all time, won 20 grammys, 20 No. 1 singles, and was the first female inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame… but that’s about it. This write-up isn’t about her.

Carolyn was the youngest of the three Franklin sisters, all of which were blessed with amazing voices (yes, expect an Erma Franklin sample in the future). From 1969 to 1976, Carolyn released five solo albums. This week’s sample is taken from her 1970 sophomore album, Chain Reaction. The vocals, production, and instrumentation are amazing. My only criticism is the fact that most of the songs on the album are covers. That normally wouldn’t bother me, but Carolyn was an amazing song writer. In fact, behind the scenes she wrote and collaborated with Aretha on several hits. In fact, on one of songs, titled Angel, Aretha mentions her sister’s name in the intro monologue describing how Carolyn came up with the song.

Many would say that Carolyn was underrated or some would say she was unable to emerge from Aretha’s shadow. But I think those discussions are irrelevant. I think Carolyn was happy for her sister’s success… and also her own. Carolyn was doing what she loved and her voice was undeniable. Carolyn has God to thank for that, not the Academy.

Quick Update:
► NEW music video by Deep Foundation & Hydroponikz for “At Your Request” feat. MC Zani (produced by Generation ILL) – Shot in London and Queens. Dope rhymes. Dope Video. The beat ain’t all that bad either [features the sample/submission from BeatSession 04|24|11]

peace, @illa0804/@generationill

Featured Beats and Producers:

Bambu – Paper Thin feat. Chace Infinite (Remix) by PMBeatz (Washington, DC)

Going in by Agent Smith 78 (Chicago, IL)

Circles by thadizzie1 (San Francisco, CA)

Thank You by Gee (Toronto, Canada)

Saxomaphone by Hi-Rock (Toronto, Canada)

CIRCLE JOINT by Mr. Klimatic (Toledo, OH)

Getaway Car by NeV (Augusta, GA)

Comin’ For it by 25/8 (Miami, FL)

Manny Horvitz by Sideways (Portland, OR)

All Game No Substance by Blackph03nix (London, England)

Let The Beat Breathe by Kam0 (Paris, France)

Tru Life by C. Bran (Charlotte, NC)

Strung Out DJ Magic, Fresh & Zig Zag of Beast Coast (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)

Unbreakable by SPNZ (Makati City, Philippines)

Check D’technique by Dondon (Paranaque, Philippines)

The Chrizo & Alwyn Beat. Featuring @alwynvillaruel by Chrizo (Las Piñas, Philippines)

I’m Gone by Def Justice (Washington, DC)

Another Song Which Uses This Sample:

Binoculars by The Left