Steve Alaimo

Sam & Dave and Henry Stone

May 102013

Sam & Dave

Ask any real soul connoisseur who their favorite group is and Sam & Dave will likely be in their top 5. Likewise, ask anybody age 5 to 95 if they’ve ever heard the song “Hold On, I’m Comin’,” or “Soul Man,” and they’ll probably sing you the words.

That’s because Sam & Dave are one of the most successful pop duos in the history of recorded music. From 1964-70 they ruled the Hot 100 with 13 straight appearances and two top 10 singles.

But most people don’t know that the group hails from Miami and were discovered by, and first recorded for Henry Stone and Steve Alaimo.

There was a little club in the heart of the Liberty City projects called the King Of Hearts owned by one John Lomelo. In later years he would become ‘mayor for life’ of the small burg of Sunrise, FL before eventually being indicted for corruption and then being re-elected.

Steve Alaimo used to work the club sometimes as a singer, and Henry used to hang out there a couple nights a week. “John Lomelo was a great guy. I used to love that place,” says Stone.

Sam & Dave were on the talent show circuit of the era, and were known for an explosive live performance that brought the church-feel to the nightclub, and through a combination of powerful singing, dance moves, and on-stage chemistry, they would turn the club out every time they hit the stage.

Alaimo produced and Stone released a few sides on his Marlin and Alston labels. Then he leased a couple of em’ to Roulette Records produced by Henry Glover. They sold what they sold, which wasn’t much, but the group’s talent would not be denied.

One night Henry Stone took Jerry Wexler of Atlantic Records to watch them play at King Of Hearts and he was blown away. Soon Sam and Dave signed a recording contract with Atlantic.

Wexler asked Stone what he thought of his recording them through STAX, and Stone suggested he have a couple of young producers he’d been keeping tabs on produce the records. So Isaac Hayes and David Porter took on the project, had Booker T & The MGs back the group, and the rest is history.

Henry Stone Article in Miami New Times – TK Records Reunite for the Documentary Film

Feb 252013

On February 19th, TK Records Greats Came Together at the Legendary Audiovision Studios to Film for the Upcoming Henry Stone Documentary

The gathering of some of the greatest artists in history was captured by Jake Katel of the Miami Miami New Times. Many of the greats were in attendance, including George McCrae, Timmy Thomas, Latimore, Little Beaver, Chocolate Perry, Clarence Reid, Willy Clarke, Steve Alaimo, Joe Stone, and of course, the man himself, Henry Stone. The award-winning director of the film, Mark Moormann, was there with the whole Beacon Films crew.

Click the Image Below for the Full Story!

The Legendary Henry Stone’s Hidden Treasures

Jun 152011

$12.98

TRACKLISTING
1. Betty Wright – Clean Up Woman Sample
2. Jimmy Bo Horne – Spank Sample
3. Little Beaver – Party Down Sample
4. Gwen McCrae – Rockin’ Chair Sample
5. Steve Alaimo & Betty Wright – The Smoke Is Gone Sample
6. Latimore – Let’s Straighten It Out Sample
7. Peter Brown – Do You Wanna Get Funky With Me Sample
8. The Charms – Hearts Of Stone Sample
9. Timmy Thomas – Why Can’t We Live Together Sample
10. Foxy – Get Off Sample
11. T-Connection – Do What You Wanna Do Sample
12. Clarence Reid – Nobody But You Babe Sample
13. Wilson Pickett – The Best Part Of A Man Sample
14. Miami f/ Robert Moore – Party Freaks Sample
15. James Brown – Rapp Payback Sample

* WHO IS HENRY STONE?
Henry Stone is noted as one of the handful of individuals that started the independent movement in the music business. His involvement was key in bringing the music industry to the world. Henry Stone, dubbed the Godfather of Florida & Miami Soul, R&B, Blues, & Dance, has been an instrumental part of the music industry in Miami and throughout the world as both an independent record label owner and distributor. Stone found his niche after WW II by selling records from the trunk of his car.

In the early 1950s he was one of the first to record Ray Charles. He found and recorded James Brown as early as 1955. Also in 1955 he had his first million selling record with the Charms singing “Hearts of Stone”. In the 1960s Stone became the largest independent record distributor in the Southeast, distributing for Atlantic, Warner Bros., Motown, Stax and many more. At the time these were all independent record labels. Stone started the Miami Music craze in the late 1960s with million sellers from artists like Beginning of the End “Funky Nassau”, Clarence Reid “Nobody But You Babe”, Betty Wright “Clean Up Woman” and others. Stone’s biggest label, TK Records, was founded in the 1970s and charted 23 gold and platinum records worldwide. He discovered KC & The Sunshine Band and other million sellers including George McCrae, Gwen McCrae, Latimore, Timmy Thomas, Peter Brown and many more.

Hidden Treasures is a collection of some of the Legendary Henry Stone’s favorite songs from his labels 1950 – 1980. Vol. 1.

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Steve Alaimo en Espanol con Los Violines de Pego Video

Mar 242011

Steve Alaimo en Espanol con Los Violines de Pego

Runtime: 3:30
View count: 2,105

Steve Alaimo interprets ten Latin favorites! Available on Steve Alaimo en Espanol.

Steve Alaimo Live at All Shook Up Premiere Party Deauville Hotel in 2008

Mar 222011

Steve Alaimo at All Shook Up Premiere Party Deauville Hotel

Runtime: 2:25
View count: 2,402

Steve Alaimo, famous Miami singer from the 1960s, performing “Every Day I Have To Cry Some” at the WLRN “All Shook Up” Premiere party at the Deauville Hotel on Miami Beach, October 24, 2008. Steve Alaimo recorded for the Legendary Henry Stone in the 1950s and 60s.

Steve now runs Adiovision Studios.

Florida’s Famous & Forgotten 2-Book Set

Mar 162011

ON SALE! $39.98
Originally $99.95 for the 2-book set

CONTENTS
A cross-refenced encyclopedia of over 250 Florida and Florida-related recording artists, groups, as well as famed producers, promoters, studios and dance halls. Fully illustrated throughout with photographs of band members, label covers, and promotional materials.

2 Book Set
Over 1000 total pages of information.

Forward by Henry Stone

Praise for “Florida’s Famous & Forgotten”

Being a native Floridian and a music lover, I found this book to be incredible. I learned so much from reading it. It made me very proud to be a Floridian, knowing so much talent was hatched in this state.
–Tedd Webb, co-host AM Tampa Bay Newsradio 970 WFLA, author of “Tedd Webb’s Trivia” and “Butt, Of Course”.

Fabulous! This Florida music encyclopedia captures the entire state’s rich music history from the early ’50s up to the second wave of the ‘Miami Sound’ in the mid-1980s. Virtually no one has been overlooked or forgotten. First encyclopedia I’ve ever seen that actually got my birthplace and date of birth correct!
–Steve Alaimo, famous 1950s-’60s teen idol and former host of ABC’s 1960s teen dance show “Where The Action Is” (one of Miami’s greatest entertainers ever!)

Although I recorded only one rock ‘n’ roll single in my entire recording career for Decca Records, I felt very honored to be included in this extraordinary Florida state encyclopedia on Florida rock, soul and dance music. I was emotionally touched at how intricately detailed Kurt Curtis was in preserving my musical career. His encyclopedia is the Bible of the Florida music scene – an incredible feat and accomplishment.
–Lenny Dee, world-renowned legendary organ stylist

Kurt, thanks for all your hard work and excellence in documenting the history of music in Florida.
–Larry Howard, founding member of Southern rock band GrinderSwitch

Every Florida performer or band that ever landed a major record deal is listed alphabeticaly, from the Allman Brothers to Ray Charles, from Tom Petty to an obscure late-’60s rock band called the Zig Zag Paper Company. Curtis has compiled detailed biographies, full discographies and more facts than the bands might remember.
–Dave Scheiber, St Petersburg Times

If there was a patron saint for forgotten Florida musicians, Kurt Curtis would have the honors.
–Charles Passy, Palm Beach Post

I think it’s great what you are doing, and I thank you for it. Can’t wait to see this encyclopedia.
–Charlie Souza, lead vocalist on the all-time classic “Time”, bass guitarist for Tampa’s legendary Tropics

We checked out your website and love the idea with your book. I think that the ’80s freestyle scene created a strong impact on many people and will continue to be in the hearts of many. Your book is a great source to relive some of those memories and would be a treasure for many music lovers past or present.
–Jorge A. Ojeda, freestylemusic.om, Freestyle Force

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Steve Alaimo Mashed Potatoes

Mar 152011

$12.98

TRACKLISTING
1) Mashed Potatoes, Part 1 Sample
2) Ooh, Poo-Pah-Doo Sample
3) She’s My Baby
4) I Like It Like That
5) Peanut Butter
6) You’re So Fine
7) Mashed Potatoes, Part 2
8) Ya-Ya
9) Hully Gully With Me
10) Heart Break
11) Baby What You Want Me To Do
12) I Got A Woman Sample

Steve Alaimo is what I call a “Musical Triple-Threat” man. Yes, this versatile, multi-talented youngster holds his audience whether he’s singing, playing an instrument, or dancing the latest steps. Patrons of Harry’s American Bar in Miami’s famed Eden Roc Hotel never know what to expect when Steve steps on the stage. Sometimes he will spend most of his time alternativing with guitar, harmonica, and organ. Other times he’ll be in a “wailing” groove that builds and builds with each song he sings. On other sets he works out new dance steps with his partners… right in front of his appreciative audience. “Exciting” is the word most used to describe Steve’s antics, whether visual or audio.

In this second album by Steve, he introduces you to “The Mashed Potatoes,” the newest dance sensation to sweep the country. Actually, Steve has been mashin’ those potatoes for almost three years. But, like the Twist, it took the second time around for Mashed Potatoes to gain a national acceptance among both teenagers and adults. At this point it looks as though Mashed Potatoes will be the dance of ’62, just as the Twist was the sensation of ’61.

No on has done more than Steve Alaimo to promote the Mashed Potatoes as a dance. Steve, along with countless others, now have seen their efforts pay off. So… let yourself go! Just set this record on the turntable, flip the switch, (and let the non-dancers step back), and get set to do the Mashed Potatoes!
Original notes by Shelly Keats

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Steve Alaimo Every Day I Have To Cry

Mar 152011

$12.98

TRACKLISTING
1) Every Day I Have To Cry Sample
2) I Don’t Want To Cry
3) My Heart Cries For You
4) I Cried All The Way Home
5) Cry Me A River Sample
6) I Wake Up Crying
7) Cry
8) She Cried
9) Don’t Cry
10) Cry Of The Wild Goose
11) Cry Myself To Sleep
12) Don’t Let The Sun Catch You Crying Sample

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Twist with Steve Alaimo

Mar 152011

$12.98

TRACKLISTING
1) The Twist Sample
2) Let’s Go! Let’s Go! Let’s Go!
3) Good Good Lovin’
4) I’ve Got It!
5) Do The Mashed Potatoes
6) Lucille
7) Boppin’ The Blues
8) The Hoochie Coochie Coo
9) Let’s Twist Again Sample
10) Do The Hully Gully
11) This Little Girl’s Gone Rockin’
12) Twist All Night Sample

Steve Alaimo, a 21 year old newcomer to that mysterious inner-circle which surrounds teenage record idols, well deserves to be included. Although he has been recording only a short time, he has amassed a large, enthusiastic following; due not only to his records, but to his personal appearances at such places as the famous Eden Roc Hotel in Miami Beach. Perhaps Steve’s devoted following stems as much from appearances as recordings, for he is a very personable, handsomee young man… quite enough to make any young girl’s heart beat a little faster! And he has something else that few of today’s young singers seem to possess – a voice!

The first album by Steve Alaimo is especially for Twist enthusiasts. But even if you’re an advocate of the Twist, we’re sure you’ll enjoy just listening.

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Starring Steve Alaimo

Mar 152011

$12.98

TRACKLISTING
1) I Don’t Know Sample
2) Ya-Ya
3) Nobody Loves Me Like You
4) I Don’t Wanna Cry
5) Sammy Dead
6) People Act Funny
7) Everybody Likes To Do The Ska Sample
8) Stand By Me Sample
9) Behold
10) Soon You’ll Be Gone
11) You’re Driving Me Crazy
12) I Won’t Let You Go

The sounds that guide handsome Steve Alaimo might well have been, He’s heading for a touchdown, or Calling Dr. Alaimo, instead of a rhythmic beat of a drum and the melodious notes of music that have led him to his present success as a popular singer.

Steve is one of those fortunate persons who had a choice of careers. While attending high school in Rochester, New York, he excelled in both sports and music. The former resulted in his acceptance of a football scholarship from the University of Michigan, but before he could head for the Midwest and the gridiron, his own successful musical group diverted his interest from grandstands to bandstands. Still fronting his own combo, he enrolled in the pre-med course at the University of Miami, and thereby qualified himself for a future professional spot as a doctor.

Steve’s musical group, called The Redcoats, followed the leader, and also enrolled at the University. Although Steve concentrated on his classes, it was a foregone conclusion that his moonlighting activities as a musician and entertainer would eventually take over. The Redcoats made numerous local TV and radio appearances and expanded their audience to the point where they were in demand as a local attraction. During this time, Steve’s interest in the blues became his main hobby, and he began to specialize in that musical form, both on guitar and vocally. He visted local Miami clubs and learned professional pointers from artists stuch as Ray Charles, B. B. King, Bobby Blue Bland, and James Brown. Rounding out his musical education, Steve gained a thorough knowledge of recording techniques while attending recording sessions as a visitor. This was the beginning of his own recording career, and his own records, made in the studios where he was once a visitor, gained wide regional acceptance.

Steve’s first national exposure was on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. He performed as a singer, and The Redcoats backed other artists on the show. It was Dick Clark who gave Steve a boost up the show biz ladder when his consistent programming of the singer’s I Want You To Love Me was in large part responsible for the hit record.

Upon graduation from the University, with honors, Steve turned his talents in one direction – entertainment. He took a job at a local record distribution company in order to learn the basic machinery of the record business, and at night he continued his personal appearances in local clubs. Steve’s reputation as a performer became widely known, and when the twist became a national craze, he brought his group into Harry’s American Bar of the famed Eden Roc Hotel. The group played there for six months, breaking all records.

Subsequently, Steve and his group have traveled throughout the country and gained many fans.

Steve Alaimo still lives in Miami, but his popularity as a singer and entertainer have made him a familiar personality throughout the nation. It’s a good bet that sooner or later you’ll see a club, TV or radio show STARRING STEVE ALAIMO.
Original notes by Rick Ward

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Steve Alaimo en Espanol

Mar 152011

$12.98

TRACKLISTING
1) Yo No Se Que Voy A Hacer Sample
2) Maria Isabel Sample
3) Nina Sample
4) Ya No Me Vuelvo A Enamorar Sample
5) Son Esas Cosas
6) No Quiero Dejarla Ya
7) Cuando Yo Vuelva A Mi Tierra Sample
8) Todavia Sample
9) Se Acabo Sample
10) Alguien Canto

El “Copacabana” de Nueva York… Las 12 de la noche… Frio afuera y dentro… Steve Alaimo! Interprete norteamericano de grandes quilates, Steve se de entero en sus actuaciones. Su arte profundo y dramatico no es facil en cantantes norteamericanos. Su ascendencia italiana le da ese toque… inolvidable! Haber producido este album con Steve ha sido una experiencia notable. Sin hablar espanol, prueba Alaimo una pronunciacion casi sin acento. Se da todo en su interpretacion! A su lado siempre, la grabacion se hizo corta. El repertorio es de primera magnitud. La emotividad de Steve y el excelente acompanamiento de Los Violines de Pego han hecho el milagro. Nosotros trabajamos un poco en su espanol y disfrutamos plenamente esta aventura con un talento verdadero, amplio, sincero y muy… espanol… Steve Alaimo!
TOMAS FUNDORA

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Steve Alaimo 50s-70s 2-CD Set

Mar 142011

$15.98

TWO CD SET TRACKLISTING
CD 1
1. Love’s Gonna Live Here
2. I Don’t Know
3. Happy
4. Everybody Knows But Her
5. Real Live Girl
6. Cast Your Fate To The Wind
7. Mais Oui; Curtis, Pinchi, Donida Sample
8. Lady Of The House
9. Blowing In The Wind
10. So Much In Love
11. Pardon Me (It’s My First Day Alone)
12. You Don’t Know Like I Know
13. Ooh Poo Pah Doo
14. New Orleans
15. Denver
16. Watching The Trains Go By

CD 2
17. Thank You For The Sunshine
18. I’m Thankful
19. After The Smoke Is Gone
20. Cry Myself To Sleep
21. Every Day I Have To Cry
22. A Lifetime Of Loneliness
23. Don’t Let The Sun Catch You Crying
24. Can’t You See
25. Wild Side Of Life
26. When My Little Girl Is Smiling
27. Nobody’s Fool
28. Amerikan Music
29. Sand In My Pocket
30. The Weekend’s Over
31. Bright Lights
32. Home by Eleven Sample
33. Melissa

Long before the British Invasion, there was a lot of blue-eyed soul music in the U. S. in places that never got mass exposure. Steve Alaimo was one of the first to explore this genre. His backing musicians included members of the James Brown band and other R&B band legends. He also had some of Nashville’s best songwriters providing material for him to record. He hosted a TV show called “Where The Action Is!” Alaimo recorded a lot of great tunes. He has personally chosen his favorite recordings for this compilation. Anyone who enjoys the 50s and 60s oldies will love these tracks!

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