Stevie Marvel knew the right way to make a robust political level and get it on the radio. When he despatched out his scornful denunciation of the politicians of the day in 1974, “You Haven’t Done Nothin’”, went all the best way to No.1 on each the American R&B and pop charts.
On August 3, Stevie entered the Billboard Scorching 100 (the soul chart debut got here per week later) with the sensible and brave single. It was new on the pop survey in the identical week as Barry White’s “Can’t Get Enough Of Your Love, Babe,” which you’ll be able to examine right here. By September, Stevie was changing Barry on the prime of the R&B listings for what was already his tenth No.1. By November, “Nothin’’’ was his fourth pop chart-topper.
Soul amid turmoil
Lyrically, the observe was a withering criticism of the political establishment, issued at a time when Marvel had begun to state his opinions loudly and clearly. With America within the turmoil of the Watergate scandal, it was completely clear that Stevie’s contempt was aimed pretty and squarely at President Richard Nixon. Two weeks after “You Haven’t Accomplished Nothin’’’ was launched, Nixon was pressured to resign the Presidency.
“Everybody promises you everything,” stated Stevie furiously when the only was launched, “but in the end, nothing comes out of it. I don’t vote for anybody until after they have really done something that I know about…you always hear the President or people say that they are doing all they can. And they feed you with hopes for years and years…I’m sick and tired of all their lies.”
Get together within the studio
Highly effective phrases certainly, however he was a grasp of creating the message not solely palatable however infectious and thrilling. He wrapped it up inside a propulsive, horn and synth-laden funk exercise with the additional attraction of backing vocals by none apart from the Jackson 5. “There was a party-like atmosphere [in the studio],” stated affiliate producer Bob Margouleff. “Everyone was so blown away with the harmonies they did.”
“You Haven’t Done Nothin’” was the primary single from one other very good LP in Stevie’s rising physique of achievements, Fulfillingness’ First Finale. The report went on to win three Grammys together with Album of the 12 months.
Purchase Stevie Marvel’s music on vinyl or CD now.
