A remarkable live performance from Sly and the Family Stone's formative years has come to light, featuring their dynamic interpretation of Otis Redding's iconic track, \"I Can't Turn You Loose.\" This unearthed recording provides a captivating insight into the band's early artistic evolution and their masterful ability to infuse existing material with their distinct funk and soul sensibilities. This exciting discovery precedes the release of a comprehensive album, offering a rare audio chronicle of the group's burgeoning talent and stage presence. The collection not only highlights their vibrant renditions of other artists' songs but also includes an early original composition, underscoring the foundational period of this legendary musical collective.
This particular rendition of \"I Can't Turn You Loose\" is a highlight from the forthcoming album, titled The First Family: Live at Winchester Cathedral 1967. Captured on March 26, 1967, during the concluding phase of their residency at the intimate Redwood City, California venue, the recording represents the earliest known live performance by Sly and the Family Stone. During their residency from December 1966 to April 1967, the band honed their craft and rapidly developed into a formidable live act. The raw energy and innovative spirit evident in this recording clearly demonstrate their burgeoning power.
The band's drummer, Greg Errico, reflected on this period, noting that it was a time of experimentation and development. He highlighted how \"I Can't Turn You Loose\" organically became part of their repertoire. Significantly, this very performance foreshadowed the band's transformation of Redding's track into their own song, \"Turn Me Loose,\" which would later appear on their 1967 studio debut, A Whole New Thing.
This cover is the second piece of music to be released from The First Family, following the album's closing number, \"I Gotta Go Now (Up On The Floor) / Funky Broadway.\" The album largely comprises an hour of covers from renowned artists such as Joe Tex, Ben E. King, and Otis Redding. However, it also features one original track, \"I Ain't Got Nobody,\" which subsequently found its place on their 1968 album, Dance to the Music.
The 1967 concert was originally recorded by Sly and the Family Stone's manager, Rich Romanello, who subsequently archived the tapes after the band secured a contract with Epic Records. It wasn't until 2002 that the recordings were rediscovered by Dutch twin brothers Edwin and Arno Konings, dedicated enthusiasts of the Family Stone. The meticulous restoration process was overseen by producer Alec Palao, ensuring the preservation of these invaluable historical performances. The re-release of this material was already in progress before the recent passing of Sly Stone, with the album's liner notes including extensive interviews with Stone and other original band members. While a special edition of The First Family was initially made available for Record Store Day, the broader release is scheduled for July 18.
The impending release of this archival live album from Sly and the Family Stone is set to provide both long-time fans and new listeners with an invaluable opportunity to experience the raw, unbridled energy of the group during a pivotal stage of their career. These recordings illuminate the dynamic interplay and innovative spirit that would soon catapult them to widespread recognition. The meticulous restoration of these tapes ensures that the vibrant sounds of a groundbreaking musical era are preserved for generations to come, allowing the legacy of Sly Stone and his band to resonate with renewed clarity and impact.