Randy Crawford [1982] - When I'm Gone [Wanner Bros. #1-23687]

Here's a version of this song that I have forgotten/overlooked. Several Motown artists recorded this Smokey Robinson written song. The original version was recorded by Mary Wells in 1964 but it wasn't released. It has subsequently turned up on several compilations. Motown actually pressed it with a full colour sleeve in June 1964 (M-1061) but decided not to release it as Wells had left Motown (acrimoniously) to join 20th Century-Fox. 

Another unreleased record by Wells in 1964 was 'Whisper You Love Me Boy' (subsequently recorded by The Supremes in 1965) / 'I'll Be Available' (subsequently released by Brenda Holloway in 1965). It was schedued for release as M-1065. Whisper You Love Me Boy did get a 45 release by Mary Wells in Holland in 1965.

Brenda Holloway had the first release of 'When I'm Gone' in 1965. Barbara McNair released it in 1969 on 'The Real Barbara McNair' album and Bonnie Pointer in 1978 on her self-titled album and it was issued as a single only in Holland in 1979 and UK in 1980.

A New Zealand blue-eyed artist, Alison Durbin, released a version on an album 'Soft & Soulful' in 1969.

Randy Crawford's version was album only on her 1982 Windsong album.

So apart from Bonnie Pointer's UK & Dutch issues, the only 45 version is the original from Brenda Holloway. The US Tamla issue is quite cheap and easy to find, but the UK TMG 508 now sells for 3 figures (5 currently for sale between £120-£225).