Curtis

Curtis, Curtis Mayfield’s 1970 solo debut, moves from his work with The Impressions into a personal blend of soul, funk, and orchestral pop. The record pairs Mayfield’s light, expressive falsetto and rhythmic guitar with lush string and horn arrangements and more direct, socially aware songwriting, ranging from intimate ballads like The Makings of You to the driving optimism of Move On Up. Its mix of gospel-influenced vocals, groove-oriented rhythm sections, and thoughtful lyricism helped define the sound Mayfield would continue to develop in his solo career.