Gwen Guthrie – Hot Times: A Soulful Delight
Gwen Guthrie’s Hot Times is a must-have for any lover of smooth, soulful grooves. This album blends rich melodies with rhythmic warmth, creating an immersive listening experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Guthrie’s songwriting shines, particularly on Is There a Spark, where her sultry vocals bring a soothing calm that wraps around the listener like a late-night breeze.
Gwen Guthrie – Hot Times: A Soulful Delight
Gwen Guthrie was a powerhouse in the world of R&B, soul, and dance music. Born in Newark, New Jersey in 1950, she made her mark as a singer-songwriter and pianist, contributing to the music industry both as a solo artist and as a backing vocalist for legends like Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, and Madonna. She was also a gifted songwriter, penning hits for artists such as Ben E. King, Angela Bofill, and Roberta Flack.
Her solo career took off in the early 1980s, and she became known for her 1986 anthem “Ain’t Nothin’ Goin’ On but the Rent”, a song that remains a classic in dance and R&B circles.
Guthrie’s ability to blend soul, disco, and dance-pop made her a favorite among club-goers, earning her the title “The First Lady of the Paradise Garage”, thanks to her frequent performances at the legendary New York club.
Hot Times – The Album
Released in 1990, Hot Times was one of Guthrie’s later works, showcasing her signature smooth vocals and rhythmic grooves, 1990 [r6249533] | Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/release/6249533-Gwen-Guthrie-Hot-Times). The album was produced by a mix of talented musicians, including Brian Jackson, Greg Smith, Sly & Robbie, and Gwen Guthrie herself, 1990 [r6249533] | Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/release/6249533-Gwen-Guthrie-Hot-Times). It was released under Reprise Records and featured a blend of synth-pop, disco, and soul influences, 1990 [r6249533] | Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/release/6249533-Gwen-Guthrie-Hot-Times).
Say It Isn’t So stands out as a powerful, soul-stirring anthem—its melody demands to be sung along to, carrying an emotional weight that lingers long after the track ends. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or curating the perfect playlist, Hot Times deserves a spot, offering the kind of timeless sound that keeps you coming back for more.
Tracklist:
- Is There a Spark?
- Miss My Love
- Say It Isn’t So
- Sweet Bitter Love
- I’ll Give My Best to You (feat. George Benson)
- Feel Good
- Hot Time in Harlem
- Our Love
- Same Ole Thang
- Never Knew Love Like This Before, 1990 [r6249533] | Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/release/6249533-Gwen-Guthrie-Hot-Times)
While Hot Times didn’t achieve major chart success, it remains a hidden gem in Guthrie’s discography, appreciated by fans for its soulful melodies and rich production.
Gwen Guthrie’s legacy continues to influence artists today, and Hot Times is a testament to her ability to craft music that is both timeless and deeply emotive. Whether you’re revisiting her classics or discovering her work for the first time, this album is worth a listen.
Chocolate Soul Music Magazine 
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