Released on June 7, 1978, Fame was the second studio album by Grace Jones and the final chapter in the disco-oriented trilogy she recorded with legendary producer Tom Moulton before reinventing herself as one of the most innovative artists of the 1980s. Recorded at the famous Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, the album continued the formula established on Portfolio, combining sophisticated disco arrangements with Grace Jones' unmistakable vocal style and commanding presence.
Produced by Tom Moulton, often referred to as the father of the disco remix, Fame features lush orchestrations, seamless medleys and the unmistakable sound of Philadelphia's finest session musicians. Like its predecessor, the first side of the original LP was presented as one continuous dance suite, moving effortlessly through Do Or Die, Pride and the title track Fame. Side two showcased Jones' remarkable versatility, opening with a dramatic interpretation of the classic Autumn Leaves, before returning to the dance floor with All On A Summer's Night, Am I Ever Gonna Fall In Love In New York City and Below The Belt. Although the singles enjoyed considerable success in clubs, the album itself has since become appreciated as one of the finest examples of late-1970s orchestral disco.
One of the album's greatest strengths is its musicianship. Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios, Fame features members of the celebrated Philadelphia studio scene, including Jimmy Williams on bass, Larry Washington on percussion, keyboard arranger John Davis, the renowned Sweethearts Of Sigma on backing vocals and orchestral arrangements featuring the legendary Don Renaldo Strings & Horns. Their contribution gave the album a rich, elegant sound that perfectly complemented Grace Jones' cool, sophisticated delivery.
Looking back today, Fame represents far more than another disco album. It captures Grace Jones at the moment she was transforming from successful fashion model into an international recording artist. While her later Compass Point recordings would redefine her image and influence generations of musicians, Fame remains an essential part of that journey, preserving the glamour, sophistication and dancefloor energy of the late disco era. Nearly five decades later, it continues to stand as one of the finest productions of Tom Moulton's remarkable career and an indispensable album for lovers of classic disco.
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01 Do Or Die
02 Pride
03 Fame
04 Autumn Leaves
05 All On A Summer's Night
06 Am I Ever Gonna Fall In Love In New York City
07 Below The Belt (La Vieille Fille)
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MUSICIANS
Grace Jones – lead vocals
John Davis – keyboards, arrangements
Jimmy Williams – bass
Keith Benson – drums
Larry Washington – congas & percussion
Moto – tambourine
Piggy Pigerino – violin
Sweethearts Of Sigma – background vocals (Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson & Evette Benton)
Don Renaldo Strings & Horns
Produced by Tom Moulton
Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Released: June 7, 1978
Label: Island Records
℗ 1978 Island Records lp #ILPS 9525
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WAVE 44100Hz / 16 Bit Stereo Recording
Funkerman's Hard to Find Beats Netherlands
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