Story by: Gail Nobles
Podcast cover by: Gail Nobles
Intro music by: Keyboardist Gail Nobles
On Soul POD Classics, we take a closer look at “How Can I Go On Without You” and the career of John Edwards.
John Edwards was the lead singer of the Spinners from 1977 to 2000. Before joining the group, he had already established a solo career as a soul singer.” One of his recordings is “How Can I Go On Without You,” also known as “How Can I Make It Without You.”
The song was recorded in the 1970s during Edwards’ time with Aware Records. The label later collapsed, and the recording was left unreleased for years. The master tapes were eventually found and the song was released on the 1996 Kent CD Careful Man. (Ace Records (https://www.acerecords.co.uk/careful-man?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The song was not a mainstream chart hit. But being missed by the charts does not mean a song should be forgotten. Soul and oldies listeners continue to rediscover music from earlier generations.
In my opinion, it is not too late for this song to reach new listeners. Radio listeners can still request music they want to hear. When it comes to oldies, we don’t let go.
To hear more of John Edwards’ music, visit First Experience Records dot com.
You're listening to Soul POD Classics. This is - In Stock POD Classics where you can find soulful tunes in stock, and I'm your host Gail Nobles.
About Soul Classic Music
14 Aug 2026
The Top - A Music Look at Willie Dynamite 8.14.’26 6.00 PM
Story by: Gail Nobles
Podcast Cover by: Gail Nobles
Music written by: Gail Nobles & played by AI assistant
French Horns played by: Keyboardist Gail Nobles
Voices by: Gail Nobles
Willie Dynamite is a 1973 American blaxploitation film directed by Gilbert Moses and starring Roscoe Orman in the title role.
The story follows Willie Dynamite, a pimp in New York City determined to become the top pimp in the city.
The film opens with Martha Reeves singing the title song over the opening credits.
The iconic theme song, “Willie D,” was composed, produced, and conducted by jazz trombonist J.J. Johnson. Johnson created the heavy, funk-infused instrumental backing, while the powerful vocals are performed by Motown singer Martha Reeves with backing from The Sweet Things.
Martha Reeves and the Sweet Things was a short-lived musical grouping that featured Reeves alongside session backing vocalists (including Clydie King, Jeanie, and Fran). It came together briefly after Reeves left Martha and the Vandellas. They recorded the vocal tracks for the Willie Dynamitesoundtrack (the film was released in 1973; the official soundtrack album followed in 1974).
I'm Gail Nobles, & you're listening to Soul POD Classics.
About Soul Classic Music
This episode includes AI-generated content.
27 Jul 2026
Martha & the Vanellas - Electric Stage Energy 7.27.’26 1.26 PM
Story by: Gail Nobles
Intro music by: Gail Nobles with AI Assistance
All voices by: Gail Nobles
Extra bass, tambourine, & Claps by: Keyboardist Gail Nobles
Photo: Public Domain Wikipedia
When you think about the music of Martha and the Vandellas, you might picture them as a typical girl group from the Motown era, but there is a profound depth beneath the surface. While groups like The Supremes were known for a neat and flawless look, Martha and the Vandellas brought a raw, high-octane energy to the stage that shook the industry to its core. They weren’t manufactured for the studio alone; they demanded attention with an authenticity that captivated audiences from the very beginning.
Their catalog was far more than just a collection of pretty melodies—it was a powerful, driving force immortalized in anthems like “Dancing in the Street.” They served as a vital bridge between the sweet, innocent pop of early girl groups and the vibrant, rhythm-heavy soul that dominated the late 1960s. Music historians often credit them with injecting a hard-driving rock-and-roll and proto-funk intensity into the Motown sound before those genres were fully embraced by mainstream pop audiences.
Understanding Martha Reeves' journey adds another layer of appreciation for their work. Long before she stepped into the spotlight, she worked behind the scenes as a receptionist at Hitsville U.S.A., giving her an insider's view of how a hit record was built. That intimate knowledge of the label's inner workings fueled her powerhouse command in the studio.
When you listen to their tracks today, every beat carries the essence of an electrifying live performance, revealing the passion and grit that drove them. Ultimately, listening to Martha and the Vandellas means tapping into a vital piece of music history—where raw talent, hard work, and relentless energy helped forge the iconic sound of Motown that endures today.
I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Soul POD Classics.
About Soul Classic Music
This episode includes AI-generated content.
Podcast Authority Score: 12 / 100
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