Almeta Lattimore [1975] - These Memories [Mainstream #MRL 5575]

Although spelt Lattimore on her 1975 debut single on Mainstream, her name was actually Almeta Latimer Roseman from Detroit. This song, "These Memories", co-written by Almeta and Michael J. Colhoun (later of C-Brand and The Dazz Band), has long been regarded as a classic 'crossover' tune which wouldn't have got a look in on rare/Northern Soul dancefloors a couple of decades before it's 'discovery'.

Only two other releases are credited to her, both duets in 1980 with John Freeman who had previously recorded "Dynamite" on Dakar in 1977, his only other recording. The first "I Need You" is an overlooked deep soul tune (included below) whilst the other "Mr. Sweetness" is unfortunately a bit of disco fodder.

It has been claimed that Latimore sang background vocals on Aretha's 1970 album "Spirit In The Dark", and right enough, after checking, Discogs credits her with vocals on all but the last three tracks of the A side which includes two singles "Don't Play That Song" (a #1 R&B  hit) and "The Thrill Is Gone".

I've also included the self-written flip side to "These Memories", "Oh My Love". Both sides are available digitally on Bandcamp.

Details

Rating:	9.5
Explicit:	N
Genre/Style:	Modern Soul / Crossover // Deep Soul
Format:	Single
Media:	7"
Label:	Mainstream // VR
Cat No:	MRL 5575 // R.P.I. 6327985
Date:	1975 / 1980
Key/BPM:	N/A
Value:	£250-£300 approx. // £10 approx.