I'm Only A Man

Description

Even though it was released on a major label, this record sells for hundreds of dollars if you can find it (we know... we paid for a copy), and it's no surprise... it's the perfect blend of raw R&B passion and smooth, sophisticated soul production. First, the passion part... Willie Tee was a pianist and singer from New Orleans, best known for recording a series of scorching 45s (some cut for Harold Battiste's short-lived AFO label) in the 60s. I'm Only a Man was Willie’s first album, recorded for Capitol in 1970, and he brought the same deep intensity to the album as he did for his singles. The difference is that for I'm Only a Man, Willie’s warm, raspy voice was lovingly enveloped in spectacular arrangements by H. B. Barnum and produced by the great David Axelrod. Strings, horns, a xylophone, bluesy guitar licks, and a funky rhythm section all percolate within the grooves of this record, with a bold selection of material ranging from Cannonball Adderley's "Walk Tall" to the Bacharach-David gem "Reach Out for Me," along with highlights he wrote himself, "Mirror" and "Bring On the Heartaches," and the "People" from Funny Girl, which closes the album.