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Expansion Records is delighted to announce the release of the daring cover of George Duke’s, “I Want You For Myself” by Patrice Isley on the 17 May, 2024.
Following the release of Patrice Isley’s “Harvest For The World” in late 2023, Robbie Vincent of Jazz FM remarked, ‘There are tracks I think that we grow up with or that we’ve heard or shared with someone very special and they become a protected species. This is one of them, I think it’s very, very daring, but I think it works.’ Patrice enjoyed further praise in the soul community for a brave single, an Interpretation of the Deniece Williams song “Free”, and completes a trilogy of cover songs with George Duke’s “I Want You For Myself”.
Patrice explains the provenance of the Duke cover. ‘Some time ago, Gary Hudgins, the Producer/Keyboardist behind the "Just Believe In Love" single on my debut album (who's also worked with Parliament, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Crystal Waters, Stevie Wonder, Najee, Dennis Chambers, The Temptations), reached out to me about a special song for which he felt would be perfect for me. We had previously worked together at "Quantize Recordings" in Baltimore, where I had recorded vocals for their House Music tunes and performed live in Maryland and Washington D.C.. Gary felt confident that despite its demanding vocal range I could handle it.
‘Given my personal connection to George Duke and his wife Corine, I aimed to honour their legacy while respecting the Expansion label's guidance in that I incorporate a different instrument into the solo. I immediately reached out to Audley Reid (known for his work with Buddy Guy, Phil Perry, Kim Fields, and others) to record a saxophone solo. Audley loved the track and responded promptly. Erik Dennis, producer of my debut album, "Believe In Love," handled the mixing and mastering of this updated version of "I Want You For Myself," which I proudly present here.
‘I first met George and Corine Duke while living in Los Angeles, attending Bible study in their home. Corine was warm and welcoming, and her cooking was amazing. We were part of a group of celebrities and entertainers who gathered regularly to fellowship about God. So, when Gary proposed covering their song, I felt honoured and took the task seriously.
‘Audley's skilful saxophone playing, complemented by Erik Dennis' artistry in mixing and mastering, breathed new life into the song while respecting George's original vision. I hope listeners are moved by the saxophone's soulful tones, which harmonise perfectly with the vocal notes I strived to reach in covering this incredible track. I had to give it my all—I wouldn't want George haunting me!’
Years ago Patrice seasoned her voice as a background vocalist on a recording for Teddy Pendergrass. Shortly thereafter, an opportunity arose for her to hit the road touring the US and Europe with Barry White, for whom she also provided background vocals on his last huge hit, "Practise What You Preach”, and it was not long before Patrice was in high demand and was singing background for none other than Philip Bailey on The Arsenio Hall show on TV.
Further television appearances included performances on Soul Train backing El Debarge and Jermaine Dupri; on The Grammy Awards backing Coolio; on The Tonight Show multiple times with Coolio, and on network television (ABC, NBC, CBS, TBN, and more) appearing with Barry White, Andrae` Crouch, Israel Houghton, and more.
Very few can boast a professional career working on stage and in the studio recording with over 30 multi-platinum selling, Grammy Award-winning A-list artists that include Gladys Knight, MC Hammer, Christopher Williams, Norman Connors, Marvin Winans, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Chante` Moore, Ashford & Simpson, Judith Hill, Christopher Williams, Mikolas Joseph, Solomon Burke and Glenn Jones. "I feel like I have to pinch myself. I've been fortunate to work with so many amazing, talented artists”, Patrice reflects.
It’s easy to think that Patrice is just a ‘covers’ artist, however, many listeners are already familiar with the original songs on her debut album, "Believe In Love," where she demonstrates her capability to emote and connect with her audience. Her previous single release ‘Better’ which won critical accolades upon release back in 2022, and a similar response with the release "Patrice's Groove," which hit #11 on the SmoothJazzGlobal.com charts, proving her skill as a Songwriter.
As we wait with bated breath and everything crossed, we sincerely hope you like this brand new single!
Musicians and liner info:
- Patrice Isley - Vocalist, lead and background vocals
- Gary Hudgins - Producer, keyboards, arranger, programming, Taj Mahal Studios, Maryland
- Lloyd 'Skip' Dorsey - Guitar
- Audley Reid -Saxophone
- Erik Dennis - Mix, mastering, Ezee Music Group, LLC, Maryland
- Tom Schuman - Vocal recording, SchuBox Studios, Nevada/Spain
- Rusty Hamilton - Vocal recordingatrice Isley, the soulful songstress known for her mesmerising renditions of timeless classics, is back with a stunning new release. Her latest single, "Free," is a heartfelt cover of Deniece Williams' 1976 hit, which soared to the top of the UK charts in May 1977.
With a passion for spreading hope and love through her music, Patrice Isley strives to fill the void left by departed legends in the realm of Soul Music. Her sacred mission continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.
For more about Patrice Isley and to follow her musical journey, join her mailing list~
