Raphael Munnings

You will almost certainly know the 1971 song ''Funky Nassau'' by Beginning Of The End which was deservedly a worldwide hit gaining airplay in many countries and becoming an instant classic. In 1972, about a year after the band released their first LP band Leader Raphael Munnings recorded a clutch of solo singles for Henry Stone's busy Miami label Alston Records. As is often the case (bad promotion or inadequate distribution) these top quality funky soul tracks soon disappeared without a trace, swallowed up by a vibrant and ever expanding arena of popular black music. The demands of striving for the next hit meant that a lot of 45s weren't given the time they needed to grow: they either hit or missed. Slipping into obscurity, they were largely overlooked by the rare record collector's scene until the late 2000s when both 45s started changing hands for large sums. Most people assumed that they would be able to obtain them easily but both 45s have remained elusive with 'Opportunity knocking' now changing hands for 4 figures. Athens of the North thought it was time to give Raphael his dues and bring these four great sides of sunshine state soul to the people: with the blessing of Henry Stone and Raphael Munnings we present both 45s in our little box set, 'Nassau Funky'.

• 1 Opportunity Knockin
• 2 Sleep On, Dream On
• 3 Takin You Higher (Just Like Climbin a Ladder)
• 4 Loneliness