Description
The year 2025 marks a monumental time in soul music as Saoul luminary, Harvey Scales‘ captivating compilation “Trying To Survive” re-emerges. Known for his evocative soul and R&B melodies that defined the 60’s and 70’s, Scales’ career spanned over two decades, translating realities of life into his music. His compositions served to provide an escape from everyday struggles to moments of elation and freedom.
Born in Arkansas but raised in Wisconsin, Scales began his music journey in the vibrant circles of Milwaukee. Despite achieving national recognition later on, he was not a stranger to the local music scene. His early 60s persona, “Twistin’ Harvey” is reminiscent of the rhythm and blues culture that the musical maestro brought to life. Collaborating with his dear friend Albert James Vance, Scales formed the group Harvey Scales & The 7 Sounds. Their music, explosive with R&B energy, was embraced by fans across the nation.
Throughout his music career, Scales worked with pioneering record labels, including Cuca Records and Magic Touch Records. The group’s hit single “Get Down”, a melodic narration paired with the infectious tone of “Love-Itis”, had fans bobbing in pure delight. This toe-tapping number not only charted on the R&B charts but also signaled the dawn of a soul-star, Harvey Scales.
Fast forward to 1970, Scales familiarised himself with producer Don Davis and singer Johnnie Taylor, both of whom played pivotal roles in his musical journey. His relationship with Taylor followed Taylor’s transition to Columbia Records, leading to Scales’ involvement in some of the most successful songs, including “Disco Lady.” This track not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart but was the first platinum single in the history of the Recording Industry Association of America.
Scales’ portfolio also includes work with other acclaimed artists like The Dells, The Dramatics, and The O’jays. His collaboration with Bunny Sigler birthed the hit “Once Is Not Enough,” popularised by The O’Jays and “Be For Real With Me,” recorded by The Dells. Scales’ songwriting and producing skills extended beyond his solo projects, serving to immortalise his contributions to the music industry.
Flash back to the present, the re-release of “Trying To Survive” in 2025 breathes new life into the emotion-driven music of Scales. This compilation features long-lost gems such as the soulful ‘Glamour Girl,’ the rhythm-intense ‘Broadway Freeze,’ and the hypnotic ‘Follow The Disco Crowd.’ The re-emergence of this collection takes listeners on a nostalgic musical journey, underscoring the eternal impact of Harvey Scales.
Despite his passing in 2019, the spirit of Harvey Scales lives on through his music. With “Trying To Survive”, audiences new and old can appreciate the genius of Scales and his ability to meld soul, R&B, and funk into timeless masterpieces. His music stands as a testament to his talent and the undeniable influence he had over the soul and R&B genre. Here’s to Harvey Scales, a true titan of soul, whose music continues to enthral, inspire, and survive.
