From FIDA's Playlist: As Long As You Love Me - True Example - REVIEW!

As Long As You Love Me
True Example    Gold Mind (1977)
On one of my record collecting hunts with a friend of mine, Kevin Russell, we went to this Adult Video and Book Store on Route 22 in Union, NJ that sold records in the front area.  Curious (at the time) as to what was in the back; however, I focused my attention to the job at hand, digging for records.    Among the glut of vinyl, there were a few priceless gems going for $0.50 cents to $2.00!  I was always keeping my eye out for such labels as Prelude, Columbia, Capitol, Nashboro and Salsoul 12 inch singles.   As I was digging, I found two copies of True Example’s Gold Mind 12 inch single (distributed by Salsoul Records).  I knew instinctively that I struck musical gold. 


“As Long As You Love Me”, (which is actually the B-Side, the A-Side is the equally compelling, "Love Is Finally Coming My Way").  Produced by T. G. Conway for the Baker-Harris-Young (B-H-Y) production team.  B-H-Y is responsible for and has contributed to just about every R&B Disco/Dance song coming out of the Sound of Philadelphia.   They're definitely the progenitors of what we call HOUSE MUSIC.   Penned by songwriting geniuses Allen Felder, T.G Conway and Ron Tyson their discography in the R&B Disco/Dance and Sweet Soul ballad arena are endless.   

This enchanting duet features Cubby St. Charles (not sure if it’s him) and one of the Sweetharts of Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia (Yvette Benton, Carla Benson & Barbara Ingram), I don’t know which one, but it’s the Sweetharts on background vocals no doubt.   It’s the story of newlyweds who continue to reaffirm and provide assurance of the love they embody as one flesh.  It opens up with a beautiful congapella chorus intro by the Sweetharts, then develops into a funky, yet candied production that is ever so Philly.  The interplay between the singers intensifies as the song builds nailing the truth behind their testimony with each line.  If you can identify with the R&B sweet soul sound of Philadelphia, then “As Long As You Love Me” will not disappoint.   A Flowerzindattic sleeper tune, for those who know…S&TB!