#19 of 25
· Cratewise Editorial
“Ernie Isley's guitar on 'That Lady' is as psychedelic as Hendrix — because he learned from Hendrix, who once lived with the family. The bridge between classic soul and funk.”
The Isley Brothers, comprising Ronald, Rudolph, and O'Kelly Isley along with later members Vernon and Ernie Isley, emerged from Cincinnati in the 1950s and became one of the most enduring and versatile acts in soul and R&B history. Beginning with doo-wop and early rock and roll, they evolved through soul, funk, and psychedelic rock across five decades of recording. The group achieved major success with early hits like 'Shout' (1959) and 'Twist and Shout' (1962), but cemented their legacy through the 1960s and 1970s with sophisticated, funk-infused albums like 'It's Your Thing' (1969) and the landmark triple album '3+3' (1973). Their incorporation of Jimi Hendrix-influenced guitar work and socially conscious lyrics demonstrated remarkable artistic evolution, influencing countless R&B and funk artists.
Style
The Isley Brothers blended soul, funk, psychedelic rock, and R&B with sophisticated arrangements, featuring lush orchestration, prominent guitar work, and Ronald Isley's distinctive vocal delivery. Their sound ranged from upbeat pop-soul to deep, album-oriented funk.
Significance
The Isley Brothers' catalog spans multiple genres and decades, making them essential listening for vinyl collectors interested in the evolution of soul, funk, and R&B. Their albums, particularly their T-Neck label releases from the 1970s, are highly sought after for both their sonic quality and cultural importance in American music history.
3 + 3, released in March 1973, marked a creative renaissance for The Isley Brothers as they embraced a funkier, more contemporary sound under their own T-Neck Records label. The album was recorded at the brothers' home studio in Englewood, New Jersey, where Ronald, Rudolph, and O'Kelly Isley worked with younger siblings Ernie and Marvin, plus cousin Chris Jasper, creating a six-piece ensemble that injected fresh energy into their music. The sessions captured the group's evolution toward harder funk and rock influences, with Ernie Isley's fiery guitar work and Marvin Isley's bass playing becoming central to the sound. Producer Jeffrey "Budd" Wyble and the Isley Brothers themselves crafted an album that balanced their signature soul foundation with aggressive funk grooves and extended instrumental passages.
Historical Context
3 + 3 arrived during a pivotal moment when soul and funk were converging, influenced by James Brown's innovations and the rise of Curtis Mayfield's socially conscious sound. The album proved enormously successful both critically and commercially, reaching number 1 on the Billboard R&B charts and establishing The Isley Brothers as vital forces in 1970s funk. The hit single "That Lady" became iconic, featuring Ernie's distinctive guitar riff and helping the album achieve platinum status. This success positioned the Isley Brothers alongside other funk legends of the era and demonstrated that established soul artists could successfully reinvent themselves for the disco and funk-dominated early 1970s marketplace.
Pressing Notes
The original T-Neck Records pressing (T 32003) is highly sought by collectors, with early copies featuring the classic gatefold artwork and label designs that reflect the era's aesthetic. First pressings typically include the extended version of "That Lady," making them preferable to later releases. Vinyl reissues have been issued by various labels over the decades, including reissues on audiophile labels. Collectors should seek original 1973 pressings for the warm, dynamic sound quality and historical value. Condition is important given the album's popularity; original copies in excellent condition command premium prices among serious collectors.
Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
Shares the same sensual soul aesthetic with lush instrumentation and intimate vocal performances that define '70s R&B.
Call Me
Al Green
Features the same smooth, groove-oriented soul sound with orchestral arrangements and emotionally direct vocals.
Superfly
Curtis Mayfield
Delivers sophisticated funk-soul with layered production and socially conscious lyrics alongside infectious grooves.
Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Combines soul and funk with rich instrumental textures and vocal warmth, showcasing similar artistic ambition and musicianship.
That's the Way of the World
Earth, Wind & Fire
Blends uplifting soul with funk and world music influences, matching the joyful energy and tight groove work of '3 + 3'.
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