Tommy Good Protest!

[stingbeelee]

A re-enactment of a Tommy Good fan protest from 1964; his fans wanted his record released!
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/2022/10/28/tommy-good-fans-reenact-1964-protest-at-motown-museum/69589966007/

[Graham Jarvis]

If It Helps here is two of them for the time being: One Issued & One Unissued


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99RBn3N-3nA


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfYRBxEOW10

[danman869]

I've always thought that original "protest" about "Motown won't release Tommy Good's songs!" was a complete load of sh!t. A smart marketing idea to create buzz about a new artist with promise who had been performing around the city, but... not likely based in reality. I'm sure the intent was basically, "hey, kids like to protest things and march with signs these days," so maybe a bit of local media coverage can be generated if we do something like that--and hopefully people will want to hear the music? It was a gamble and it didn't work.

That said, I like Tommy's Motown output. Sadly, it didn't have the same electricity as music being recorded by The Temptations or Marvin or The Tops, etc., at the same time, but it was clearly material with a strong Motown Sound that definitely was worth hearing/having. I think of how some fans call out the difference between Los Angeles-produced Motown circa 1964-65-66 and generally find LA productions inferior to Detroit-produced Motown from the same period. Lucky Tommy at least got to record all his material in Detroit, in the Snakepit, with the Funk Brothers! I also think "Baby I Miss You" was a good choice for single. Too bad it just didn't click with the public so that there could have been further releases. At least we finally got the Collection CD back in 2006. [OMG, was it that long ago?!]

[danman869]

Was just looking at all the Tommy Good songs I have in my collection between TCMS4, the 2006 Collection, and subsequent Cellarful releases, and [unless there are more vaulted recordings that go beyond that date] Tommy continued recording into 1965 and his last recording date was September 11, 1965. Even though "Baby I Miss You" didn't chart, Motown clearly felt he was worth keeping on contract and working with. Too bad they didn't feel any of the music was worth releasing at the time. He seemed to work either with Smokey or with Staunton & Walker [the latter technically being Robert Dobyne]. Other than working with Smokey [who perhaps wanted to help], it makes it seem that Tommy was not necessarily a priority for the company since he wasn't working with HDH or continuing with Mickey. It would be interesting if Tommy could have been asked at that event last week some more in depth questions about what he felt might have gone wrong despite being signed to Motown for well over a year.

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I found a copy of Tommy Good's "Baby I Miss You" Gordy 45 in a five-and-dime close-out bin for 39 cents back in the day, and I've been a fan ever since. His Motown recording[[s) -- especially "Baby I Miss You" and "I've Gotta Get Away" -- sound like top-notch Motown to me -- especially those complete with The Andantes. If "Baby I Miss You" flopped, it's because it didn't get any radio airplay -- at least not in my area. My local a.m. radio station played tons of Motown starting in 1964. If I had heard "Baby I Miss You", I would have raced to the record store to buy it. Same goes for "I've Gotta Get Away", had it been released.

[paul_nixon]

If It Helps here is two of them for the time being: One Issued & One Unissued


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99RBn3N-3nA


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfYRBxEOW10

I've Gotta Get Away 1st OD 28/01/1965

[mysterysinger]

Not really a fan of "Baby I Miss You" but I really rate "I've Gotta Get Away" whcih is among my favourite Motown tracks.

[TomatoTom123]

A re-enactment of a Tommy Good fan protest from 1964; his fans wanted his record released!
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/2022/10/28/tommy-good-fans-reenact-1964-protest-at-motown-museum/69589966007/

This is great!! :D

[Philles/Motown Gary]

I really rate "I've Gotta Get Away" which is among my favourite Motown tracks.

I really love that track, too, mystery. It's a shame that Tommy's version got relegated to the vaults. It's even more mind-boggling that Motown didn't reassign "I've Gotta Get Away" to another Motown artist or group. That recording with the marvelous string passages and The Andantes enriching it is/was far too good to let die on the vine, as it did.

[Graham Jarvis]

Most are well aware concerning Tommy Good and his CD "The Motown Collection" there are 20 tracks and most are unissued from the vaults. It is difficult to find the CD as it was originally issued in 2006. Those that are really interested in supporting Tommy can download one or all of the Twenty tracks directly from Amazon. [The UK prices are around 2.50 per track] Maybe the supporters can then also distribute flyers to others?

20105

[paul_nixon]

And of course the subsequent release of I Found My Love In You on Cellarful Of Motown 5 which wasn't overlooked for the 'Collection' but simply arrived from the US as a single very poor authentic 60's mix but didn't quite cut the mustard as we had heard much better versions. It took another ten years or so to turn up the much better mix that was released on COM5 which totally thrilled Tommy..

[Graham Jarvis]

Yes well familiar with "I Found My Love In You" like most in the early 2000"s there was CD's after one another which was incredible at the time to hear all of these unissued and rare Motown songs. I do however prefer the raw and original acetates as well as the issued 45's throughout the 5T,6T's, & 7T's and keeping them as they were rather than different mixes. We all have different preferences and that's Ok.

I have always liked Tommy Good's music and it was a pleasure to finally get his CD and all of the unissued tracks. The "I Found My Love In You" [as you mention] personally I never found "I Found My Love" as one of his best. However I still love his music.

[paul_nixon]

Yes well familiar with "I Found My Love In You" like most in the early 2000"s there was CD's after one another which was incredible at the time to hear all of these unissued and rare Motown songs. I do however prefer the raw and original acetates as well as the issued 45's throughout the 5T,6T's, & 7T's and keeping them as they were rather than different mixes. We all have different preferences and that's Ok.

I have always liked Tommy Good's music and it was a pleasure to finally get his CD and all of the unissued tracks. The "I Found My Love In You" [as you mention] personally I never found "I Found My Love" as one of his best. However I still love his music.

Absolutely agree with you and where there were mixed versions [[DM's) of tracks in the vaults in either mono or stereo these were of course used unless the mixes were really poor. The only times our team mixed tracks were when no previous mixes were found or only mono's had been released - much the same attitude as all other reissue labels follow. But of course if there were never any mixes done or saved the there was no choice other than to mix them nowadays, better to have a modern mix than no mix at all.

Inciedentally on checking, the label obviously had a lot of faith in at least I've Gotta Get Away as they made over a dozen and a half mixes of the track

[jobucats]

Live performance of "Ask the Lonely" 2006. I also noticed his studio version was included on one of those Motown Treasures CDs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRmIf9iqQxM

[Roger Polhill]

I thought that the "Motown Sings Motown Treasures" version was Ivy Joe Hunter. I would love to hear Tommy`s original version if it exists.

[snakepit]

Yes I think it was an error re Tommy Good/Ivy Hunter on that CD

[snakepit]

I love "I gotta get away".
Will feature it on my radio soon.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

When I got that Motown Collection CD, a couple of things struck me about Tommy's Motown career; as it often happened at Motown, they released the weakest recording and left the much more dynamic material in the can. "Baby I Miss You" wasn't much to get excited about. It ain't bad but it's a rather pedestrian song that went out in a period when Motown was really heating up with some great, exciting records. "Baby I Miss You" seemed saddled with a sound that was by-the-numbers with it's cilp-clopping beat and lyrics that were actually odd if you pay attention to them. The guy's girlfriend/wife is going away. OK, I get it, yeah he's gonna miss her. Except for one thing: the woman's only going for ONE NIGHT.

The lyrics corner Tommy into sounding incredibly dependent on someone to the point that he has to bolster his inner strength by saying "you can take it Tommy, I know you can!" Tommy and the Andantes really are the BEST thing about this record. But even the Andantes seem to be working overtime trying to elevate this record.

By comparison, "Talk About A Good Feeling" was a better bet and"She's A Living Doll" was even better. One of Tommy's best songs was the Staunton and Walker production, "You're Something To Talk About." Why was Motown forever stashing away really good records and going with weaker material?

The other thing that struck me about Tommy's time at Motown was that the timing was super unfortunate. 1964 was a surprisingly explosive year for Motown because all of a sudden, the Temptations, Brenda Holloway, Four Tops and Supremes got hot. Very hot. Motown was still a relatively young company and trying to gain some sustainable momentum. Mary Wells had been Motown's ticket but NOW they just got a run of big hits within a short period of time. So if Motown was your company, where is your attention going to be focused? And think like a business man and NOT a fan. Unfortunately, Tommy, Carolyn, and others who weren't hitting were suddenly out in the cold.

[paul_nixon]

Yes I think it was an error re Tommy Good/Ivy Hunter on that CD

Spot on Snake it was one of the many versions IJH recorded over the years general concenus is that one may have been a guide for Tommy

[ralpht]

I sent Tommy an email regarding this interesting thread. Hopefully he will post.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I sent Tommy an email regarding this interesting thread. Hopefully he will post.
That would be great!

[nsoule]

I wasn't at the reenactment of the "protest", but I was asked to play Motown records at the former Berry Gordy mansion in Boston-Edison the next day. Tommy Good performed in the ballroom in the basement and sounded great! Louvain Demps was also there, and I was able to get my copies of both of their records signed.
20113

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I wasn't at the reenactment of the "protest", but I was asked to play Motown records at the former Berry Gordy mansion in Boston-Edison the next day. Tommy Good performed in the ballroom in the basement and sounded great! Louvain Demps was also there, and I was able to get my copies of both of their records signed.
20113

Wow! Now THAT is something to treasure forever. Are you a DJ? That's so awesome that you got to play records at Berry's former mansion.

[TomatoTom123]

When I got that Motown Collection CD, a couple of things struck me about Tommy's Motown career; as it often happened at Motown, they released the weakest recording and left the much more dynamic material in the can. "Baby I Miss You" wasn't much to get excited about. It ain't bad but it's a rather pedestrian song that went out in a period when Motown was really heating up with some great, exciting records. "Baby I Miss You" seemed saddled with a sound that was by-the-numbers with it's cilp-clopping beat and lyrics that were actually odd if you pay attention to them. The guy's girlfriend/wife is going away. OK, I get it, yeah he's gonna miss her. Except for one thing: the woman's only going for ONE NIGHT.

The lyrics corner Tommy into sounding incredibly dependent on someone to the point that he has to bolster his inner strength by saying "you can take it Tommy, I know you can!" Tommy and the Andantes really are the BEST thing about this record. But even the Andantes seem to be working overtime trying to elevate this record.

By comparison, "Talk About A Good Feeling" was a better bet and"She's A Living Doll" was even better. One of Tommy's best songs was the Staunton and Walker production, "You're Something To Talk About." Why was Motown forever stashing away really good records and going with weaker material?

The other thing that struck me about Tommy's time at Motown was that the timing was super unfortunate. 1964 was a surprisingly explosive year for Motown because all of a sudden, the Temptations, Brenda Holloway, Four Tops and Supremes got hot. Very hot. Motown was still a relatively young company and trying to gain some sustainable momentum. Mary Wells had been Motown's ticket but NOW they just got a run of big hits within a short period of time. So if Motown was your company, where is your attention going to be focused? And think like a business man and NOT a fan. Unfortunately, Tommy, Carolyn, and others who weren't hitting were suddenly out in the cold.

Hey WaitingWatching, I have to disagree about "Baby I Miss You" :p, which I think is pretty excellent, and single-worthy. Also, Tommy’s version of "Leaving Here" [the B-Side of "Baby I Miss You"] is possibly my favourite.

But, "You're Something To Talk About" is a great song [it has that distinct Staunton & Walker sound!!], as is "I've Gotta Get Away". :cool:

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hey WaitingWatching, I have to disagree about "Baby I Miss You" :p, which I think is pretty excellent, and single-worthy. Also, Tommy’s version of "Leaving Here" [the B-Side of "Baby I Miss You"] is possibly my favourite.

But, "You're Something To Talk About" is a great song [it has that distinct Staunton & Walker sound!!], as is "I've Gotta Get Away". :cool:

Hi Tom! Mid-Week Greetings! Recently, my brother and I were remembering some of the music we grew up with and we started talking about Al Green. I was saying how I loved those songs and still do but I was amazed to find out he NEVER liked them! He just heard them completely differently than I did. I often think about that whenever I'm on SF and there are differences of opinions about the music. It's amazing how our ears can hear things so differently!��.

I do wish Motown would have put out more of those Staunton and Walker productions!

[nsoule]

Wow! Now THAT is something to treasure forever. Are you a DJ? That's so awesome that you got to play records at Berry's former mansion.

I did DJ quite a bit when I lived in Chicago, but not really anymore since I moved to Detroit in 2013. And by DJ, I mean playing one 45 after another. Lol. It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime type experience getting to play records at the mansion. It's beautiful inside, and the current owners definitely seem to know and care about the history. There were no Frank Wilson 45s stuffed in medicine cabinets and forgotten about though - I checked.

[DWSheffer]

There were no Frank Wilson 45s stuffed in medicine cabinets and forgotten about though - I checked.

YES! Always check the medicine cabinets when you visit a new place, haha! :p

[snakepit]

I too wish that Motown would have used Staunton -Walker more.
I think we recently discovered that this great NS tune is Motown's Robert Walker.
The Blizzard...RCA

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=S5Q161ChlLo

[Graham Jarvis]

Hey Nick
Was that the Detroit Berry Gordy mansion the one that went up for sale in 2017 and there was records galore [29 copies of Camel Walk by Saundra Mallett and a number of Message 45's] that also went for sale including Berry's piano?

https://www.soul-source.co.uk/search/?q=Berry%20Gordys%20Mansion&quick=1&type=cms_records5

[Graham Jarvis]

Robert Walker's RCA 45 9304 1967 was a favourite during the mid 7T's 1974/5 mostly it was the era of uptempo instrumentals and it was the B side "Stick To Me [Inst]" that was the more popular side of the record at the NS events. The "Blizzard" still a great record.

Robert Walker & The Night Riders also had an uptempo NS 45 on "Detroit Sound" from 1966 "Everything's All Right" . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfdRNEmfCEc

Any sound files let me know.

[ralpht]

I'm in touch with Tommy and he should appear soon. Working out the details.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I'm in touch with Tommy and he should appear soon. Working out the details.

That'll be fantastic!

[drewschultz88]

Tommy Good is such a nice guy, and a wonderful singer. To this day he's got it! I'll try to get some more footage but this was Tommy sitting in with my group for the opening night of this year's Detroit A Go Go fest, he is always great!

https://www.facebook.com/1267020107/videos/pcb.10221951850966515/1243427849555223

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Tommy Good is such a nice guy, and a wonderful singer. To this day he's got it! I'll try to get some more footage but this was Tommy sitting in with my group for the opening night of this year's Detroit A Go Go fest, he is always great!

https://www.facebook.com/1267020107/videos/pcb.10221951850966515/1243427849555223

This is great, thanks for posting this! He sounds as if "How Sweet It Is" could have been written just for him. It's really great to see that he never stopped performing and that even with just ONE official Motown release, thanks to YouTube, I think he has more fans today than ever. I became one as soon as I bought that CD anthology. I've noticed the responses I get on videos with his music are always the same: "why didn't Motown put out more of his records?" The overall feeling is that Tommy had the talent and was deserving of much more. Even with viewers that I know were born maybe only within the last 20 years or so, the response is positive to his Motown recordings. His voice was one of the best Motown had- there's a song he did "Talk About A Good Feeling", and they had Marvin also do the song with the same backing track- both were great, and that says a lot about Tommy; any day you can sing the same song as Marvin Gaye AND sound just as good- yeah, you got IT!

[ralpht]

Still waiting for Tommy. Dealing with a storm now. Hope he is okay.

[ralpht]

I'm thinking Tommy may have lost power because of the storm. Stay tuned. I'm working on it.

[tommy good]

Hello to all my friends at Soulful detroit It’s good to talk to you again. Ralph emailed me and asked if I would answer some Questions on the reenacted march. I of course will do that for my good friend.
the march was Al Abrams Idea [[ Motown press man). Al sold Berry to the Idea and that’s how it started. It was a publicity stunt. Singing for berry and all my fans that day on the front lawn was something I’ll never forget. I was a gutsy move on Berry’s part.

[ralpht]

Tommy.So good to see you and have you join us. We go back many years.

[tommy good]

My good friend Phill Dick called me and asked if I would like to do an reenactment of the original march which was 58 years ago. I said great. It was great fun and done so well. I Should say right now that I’ll do my best with my computer skills. Which are Questionable.

[ralpht]

You're doing just fine, Tommy.



ypo'

[tommy good]

Yes Ralph we go way back, I have always been a fan of yours and your brother, I remember setting in with you guys at the Metropol in Canada, always a good time.

[ralpht]

Yeah, I remember the Metropol. We were so young then, Tommy.

Tom, it is a Holiday weekend so things might start a little slow. The questions will come. Look in from rime to time. You have loyal fans here.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hello to all my friends at Soulful detroit It’s good to talk to you again. Ralph emailed me and asked if I would answer some Questions on the reenacted march. I of course will do that for my good friend.
the march was Al Abrams Idea [[ Motown press man). Al sold Berry to the Idea and that’s how it started. It was a publicity stunt. Singing for berry and all my fans that day on the front lawn was something I’ll never forget. I was a gutsy move on Berry’s part.

Yow!!!!! It's so awesome to have you here! I have been a great fan ever since I bought that Motown Anthology CD. Right now on YouTube, you've gotten nothing but glowing reviews for your singing. What is really nice though, is that I think the majority of comments are from people like myself- you're a "new" Motown artist and the discovery is pure joy. Plus, many of us were either born around the time you were at Motown or even years later so yours is a timeless gift.

I'd love to hear your recollections of that day of the March, but also, what was it like working with Robert Staunton and Robert Walker? You recorded quite a few of their songs and a lot of people wish there had been more because you really aced those songs. "You're Something To Talk About" is a particular fan favorite.

Again it's great that you're giving us your time and I'm going to have to try very, VERY hard not to deluge you with more questions!

[tommy good]

I would like to address the lyrics to Baby I Miss You. I had nothing at all todo with writing lyrics or melody of any of the songs on my Motown CD. None of us were encouraged to take part in the writing process. Berry had his writers and for the the most part, that was it. I just sang every thing that Berry asked me to.

[ralpht]

Merry Christmas old pal. I look at you joining us as an exceptional Christmas present.

[tommy good]

Hi waiting, watching,etc. I want to thank you for the kind words on my singing, it is music to my ears. Thank you.
staunton@ walker has 5 songs on my CD. 1- small town girl, one of my favorites. 2- she’s a living doll. 3- talk about a good feeling. 4- our own private world. 5- you’re something to talk about. I loved those guys, they were so easy to work with.

[tommy good]

Ralph, thank you for that wonderful sentiment, you are one of the best my man.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I would like to address the lyrics to Baby I Miss You. I had nothing at all todo with writing lyrics or melody of any of the songs on my Motown CD. None of us were encouraged to take part in the writing process. Berry had his writers and for the the most part, that was it. I just sang every thing that Berry asked me to.

I think everyone knows that "Baby I Miss You" was written by William Stevenson, and there are no stones being thrown. If there is one thing every Motown fan knows, it's that EVERYTHING, including the songwriting was done by others, everyone hired to concentrate on doing one thing and doing it well. We know artists were basically expected to sing a song as is and often according to a singer demo. That's why your singing is appreciated, because it retained a quality that was still original and expressive. I remember someone said about Billie Holliday that she was so good because she could take a song that wasn't the most spectacular and make it sound like something you WANTED to hear. I've noticed at Motown, two people could sing the same song and yet one could make even the dullest song sound like a hit. For me, had I been a teenager back then, I think I would have bought "Baby I Miss You" solely because of your performance of it.

[thanxal]

Wow. This is incredible. Thank you so much for taking time out on your Christmas to come here and field some questions. Thanks Ralph for making this happen. It's very special to hear from people who were around for some of the things we idolize today. Merry Christmas!

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi Mr. Good. If you see this, I always wanted to know about your group, the Tabs. Did Motown want you as a solo artist or did the guys just decide they wanted to move on? The band sounded good but I was thinking maybe Motown felt since they had Jr. Walker & the All Stars doing something similar, maybe Berry Gordy felt there was a better chance with you as a solo artist.

[snakepit]

Welcome Tommy.
It's wonderful to have a Motown artist that fans can reach out to.
I love your CD as it gave us the chance to officially hear these tracjs that Motown passed on.
I had " Baby I miss you" on a 45 many years ago...a treasured import for us UK collectors.
I too am intetested in Staunton and Walker, such a shame that they didn't stay at Motown for a longer period, as they produced some great tracks.
My favourite of yours though is "Gotta get away".
I couldn't believe it upon hearing it on a.bootleg tape years ago...stunning ...Smokey really got it right on that tune. What a shame he didn't produce more on you.
Great to see you on here.
Happy New Year.

[mysterysinger]

Hi Tommy and welcome to the Forum - you have a lot of fans here including from the UK as you will know. I wondered how you came to work with Smokey Robinson and what that was like. Why, oh why, was "I've Gotta Get Away" not released at the time - were you ever given any indication? Did Smokey select you for that track or write it especially for you? What did you do after your time at Motown expired?

[tommy good]

Hi waiting,watching etc. on the day of the march [[ original march )I was peeking out the window and getting nervous. As it got closer to my being called out to sing I got calmer and thought I’m going to sing this song as good as I possibly can. On that day I thought I did a good job.

Comparing the re-enactment march to the original there was almost no nervousness, I had a ball, it was much more than I expected. Phil did a great job throwing the march together, I am very grateful to everyone who took part.

[tommy good]

Berry came to the Duchess lounge on 7 mile and vandyke to see and hear me, he asked me if I would like to sign a contract to Motown, I of course said yes. He came back several times once with Dianne Ross. He had written Bad Bad Baby. I had also met him at his apartment to work on bad bad baby. it’s a blue’s tune. a white guy singing the blue’s at Motownbut we did it, I still like hearing it to this day. it was the first song I. Worked on.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi waiting,watching etc. on the day of the march [[ original march )I was peeking out the window and getting nervous. As it got closer to my being called out to sing I got calmer and thought I’m going to sing this song as good as I possibly can. On that day I thought I did a good job.

Comparing the re-enactment march to the original there was almost no nervousness, I had a ball, it was much more than I expected. Phil did a great job throwing the march together, I am very grateful to everyone who took part.
I love hearing about that! Kinda makes it feel like being there! It seems like things were a lot more about the fun of the business back then. The protest was one of the most unique things I've read Motown's marketing strategy. The even greater thing is that even though it was one moment back then, apparently it carried some weight because all these years later you can still read about it online. People like me who weren't yet born ate still discovering it. Really nice to hear you had a great time and that Phil has the great idea to do it!

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Berry came to the Duchess lounge on 7 mile and vandyke to see and hear me, he asked me if I would like to sign a contract to Motown, I of course said yes. He came back several times once with Dianne Ross. He had written Bad Bad Baby. I had also met him at his apartment to work on bad bad baby. it’s a blue’s tune. a white guy singing the blue’s at Motownbut we did it, I still like hearing it to this day. it was the first song I. Worked on.
I think it says a lot that Berry personally wrote the song for you. Reading what you said about your being white and singing a blues song reminded me of the song he did with Chris Clark, "Do Right Baby, Do Right, " because that was a blues tune as well. I think he got really excited when he found singers like you and Chris who could really sing those songs well. A bit like Elvis- the guy had a voice that carry the blues well- more so than Pat Boone [[whom I actually like.) I can definitely hear why Berry was excited about signing you to Motown.

[TomatoTom123]

Hi Tommy, amazing to have you here!!! I'm another fan from the UK [and another Tom! :cool:]. My question would be… what’s your favourite recording from your time at Motown? :)

[ralpht]

Just heard from Tom. He was having a small glitch. Stay tuned.

[ralpht]

Well gang, Tommy seems to have disappeared. I'm not sure what happened. I have tried to reach out but no luck. Sorry for the inconvenience.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Well gang, Tommy seems to have disappeared. I'm not sure what happened. I have tried to reach out but no luck. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Well, it was nice while it lasted. Definitely appreciate that you made it possible to talk to him!

[tommy good]

Snakepit, Paul, I think that someone not sure of who, could have erased the vocal and then recorded his voice. My guess is Ivy.

[ralpht]

Tom, good to see you.

[tommy good]

Ralph, Again ,I apologize for not getting this, I can read my posts but they are at the bottom of the thread.I have answered at least 6 requests so far.

[luckyluckyme]

Snakepit, Paul, I think that someone not sure of who, could have erased the vocal and then recorded his voice. My guess is Ivy.

Or perhaps your vocal of the song is on tape somewhere in the Motown vault, waiting to be discovered.

[ralpht]

Yeah, that is the way it works.

[ralpht]

You could hit "reply with quote" and that will show the members question in the box before you respond underneath it.

[ralpht]

Stay tuned, we may have gotten the bugs out. Tommy should be here soon.

[tommy good]

Ralph, thanks for helping me out.

[ralpht]

Glad to help Tom. Welcome back.

[tommy good]

Good to talk to you also.)

[tommy good]

If anyone can find my version of [[ just ask the lonely ) my bet is on my good friend Paul Nixon.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi Mr. Good. I've seen videos of you at live performances- did you ever more or less stop singing or have you always been out there at various shows? By the way, I'm currently hooked on "She's A Living Doll" and "My Love For You". Yow! Those are great!

[tommy good]

Hi Mr. Good. I've seen videos of you at live performances- did you ever more or less stop singing or have you always been out there at various shows? By the way, I'm currently hooked on "She's A Living Doll" and "My Love For You". Yow! Those are great!
Hi waiting, watching, your support feels great. Thank you. My participation started with the weekender 2 in Northampton. It was an amazing event. Singing with Bobby Tailor and Chris Clark and Pat Lewis and many others made .me want to be a part of these shows. The weekender 2 was 10, 11 years ago. I’m going to be 86 years old this coming January 14th. Not ready to stop yet.

[ralpht]

Don't ever stop, Tom.

[mysterysinger]

Just amazing

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi waiting, watching, your support feels great. Thank you. My participation started with the weekender 2 in Northampton. It was an amazing event. Singing with Bobby Tailor and Chris Clark and Pat Lewis and many others made .me want to be a part of these shows. The weekender 2 was 10, 11 years ago. I’m going to be 86 years old this coming January 14th. Not ready to stop yet.
86! That's awesome! The great thing is that nowadays you really don't have to stop. I was telling a friend yesterday about how people age much, MUCH differently now than before. It used to be that people would say, well I'm such-and-such age now so I can't do this anymore but I think nowadays people are saying that's ridiculous! If you enjoy doing something, DO it. When I was in my 20s, I met a man once on my job and in the course of conversation he told me he was 85 and still scuba diving. I thought that was so cool because it was telling me age doesn't have to make me give up having fun! I still remember that guy's words. Your voice is as good as back then so it's excellent you're having fun and sharing that fun with the fans!

[paul_nixon]

Snakepit, Paul, I think that someone not sure of who, could have erased the vocal and then recorded his voice. My guess is Ivy.

Tommy it would thrill me to the stars and back to find your version...20 years we have been searching ..the shame is that so far there is no TG vocal to be found. Where it should be is that version they released as you on Motown Treasures which we know to be Ivy No who sings it there in a Tommy Good fashion possibly as a guide for you, paperwork though shows you did a lead but it's not on that tape where it should be. Funnily enough I was in New York at Christmas still talking about your version. We haven't given up all hope but the chances are getting smaller by the year. If it's there we'll find it...so Tommy do you remember doing a lead?

[mysterysinger]

Has anyone ever heard an acetate or a cassette of a Tommy vocal on "Ask The Lonely"?

[ralpht]

Apparently not.

[mysterysinger]

Perhaps I should ask the lonely?

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Perhaps I should ask the lonely?

Maybe pose the question in a new thread. Darren and some of the other collectors may not be aware of this topic and a fresh new thread header might draw more attention.

[snakepit]

Tommy
I've included " I've got to get away" on my radio show this Wednesday.
I'll post a link here for you.

[ralpht]

Not sure where Tommy went..........

[snakepit]

Had to get away...??

[ralpht]

I will try and contact him.

[tommy good]

Paul Nixon, I’ll never forget the many ways you explained and helped me through the Motown collection CD. You are a true friend and if you ever needed my help, just let me know.
Tommy Good

[tommy good]

Hi watching, waiting, etc. all the while I was with motown, I was working the clubs in Detroit 6 and 7 days a week, singing at night and singing at Motown, and right by my side we’re the Tabs. I would use the Tabs every chance I could. They were with me during the Motown review bringing in1964. And even did a few songs on my CD.

[tommy good]

How fortunate was I to get to work with Drew Shultz and his band. Always the best backing. I thank you Drew for the wonderful compliment. I promise I will do my best to live up to your words. Thank you.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi watching, waiting, etc. all the while I was with motown, I was working the clubs in Detroit 6 and 7 days a week, singing at night and singing at Motown, and right by my side we’re the Tabs. I would use the Tabs every chance I could. They were with me during the Motown review bringing in1964. And even did a few songs on my CD.

That's great that you all continued to play live dates as a band. I did get a chance to hear the band tracks on the CD- you all had a really great sound! Motown seemed to be seriously trying to diversify the music they were selling- signing you and your band, The Tabs, then later, Rock groups like The Underdogs and The Messengers. They could have had some solid Rock sales with your band and the others, but I have to say, I really love the material recorded on you as a solo artist!

[ralpht]

Tom, who was in The Tabs during this time?

[woodward]

Hi waiting, watching, your support feels great. Thank you. My participation started with the weekender 2 in Northampton. It was an amazing event. Singing with Bobby Tailor and Chris Clark and Pat Lewis and many others made .me want to be a part of these shows. The weekender 2 was 10, 11 years ago. I’m going to be 86 years old this coming January 14th. Not ready to stop yet.


In case anyone missed this thread, today, January 14, 2023 is Tommy's 86th birthday. Happy Birthday and best wishes to Tommy on achieving this milestone. Have a great day.

[ralpht]

I nearly missed it. Happy Birthday, Tom.

[mysterysinger]

Happy Birthday Tommy - have a great day.

[mysterysinger]

Just a wild thought - as regards "Ask The Lonely" - there is at least one video of Tommy singing it live on YouTube, but whilst he sings great, the backing could be better.

I know that on the Motown original karaoke series, there is the official backing track to the song. So, maybe Tommy could record his vocal to this backing track and, voila at least one version for fans to enjoy in the absence of an original. Even better if it could be recorded with a good band of course.

I've done it myself with the proper backing track and it's ok but sadly I'm no Tommy Good, Levi Stubbs or Ivy.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I keep checking to see if Mr. Good will return, but all the same, it was really nice to have him stop by here!

[ralpht]

I'm not sure what is going on. I hope all is well with him.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I'm not sure what is going on. I hope all is well with him.

Same here.

[ralpht]

I really didn't want to do it, but I sent Tommy an email asking if all was well. If for some reason he no longer wants to participate, I'm hoping I'm not over-stepping bounds.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I really didn't want to do it, but I sent Tommy an email asking if all was well. If for some reason he no longer wants to participate, I'm hoping I'm not over-stepping bounds.

Well, you made it happen and we did get to talk to him so that is a huge positive for a Motown fan. And if nothing else, he now knows that he's got fans on the forum. That's not overstepping boundaries by any means. I'd say you gave him a nice look at the people who enjoy his music. Mr. Good may just be a private person. Like the song says, "Don't Think Twice It's Alright" [[you know how I mean that!)

[ralpht]

Thank you for that, Waiting.

[ralpht]

I heard from Tommy. He assured me he was enjoying the Forum but was having posting problems.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

I heard from Tommy. He assured me he was enjoying the Forum but was having posting problems.

Well that's promising...and a relief.

[Graham Jarvis]

This might interest you not just for the Tabs but any & all! Well worth you signing in its amazing.

http://doo-wop.blogg.org/search?q=The%20Tabs

[tommy good]

I apologize to Ralph and the forum members. I should be on soon. Thanks for staying with me.

[ralpht]

Thank you for the update, Tommy.

[TomatoTom123]

Hi Tom! Mid-Week Greetings! Recently, my brother and I were remembering some of the music we grew up with and we started talking about Al Green. I was saying how I loved those songs and still do but I was amazed to find out he NEVER liked them! He just heard them completely differently than I did. I often think about that whenever I'm on SF and there are differences of opinions about the music. It's amazing how our ears can hear things so differently!��.

I do wish Motown would have put out more of those Staunton and Walker productions!

Hey WaitingWatching! I was just listening to The Monitors’ Motown Anthology, and "Show Me You Can Dance" reminded me of our conversation about Staunton & Walker…


https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=GZVejy0c0qM

Just thought it was another great tune [and one that I could hear Tommy tearing up too]!! :D

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hey WaitingWatching! I was just listening to The Monitors’ Motown Anthology, and "Show Me You Can Dance" reminded me of our conversation about Staunton & Walker…


https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=GZVejy0c0qM

Just thought it was another great tune [and one that I could hear Tommy tearing up too]!! :D
I love it,, Tom! Total YES to that! "Show Me You Can Dance" is pretty similar to "You're Something To Talk About" in key, tempo and feeling and Tommy OWNED that one. If ever there was a missed opportunity for Staunton and Walker, and Tommy to have a great charting single, this had to have been a best bet.

[TomatoTom123]

I love it,, Tom! Total YES to that! "Show Me You Can Dance" is pretty similar to "You're Something To Talk About" in key, tempo and feeling and Tommy OWNED that one. If ever there was a missed opportunity for Staunton and Walker, and Tommy to have a great charting single, this had to have been a best bet.

Glad you agree Waiting!!! As far as I’m aware, the song wasn’t even released on any of the artists that actually recorded it…

I’ve been listening to a version of the song by The Hit Pack [lead singer Robert Dobyne?] which is pretty good too!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Jqsz6ppJMok

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Glad you agree Waiting!!! As far as I’m aware, the song wasn’t even released on any of the artists that actually recorded it…

I’ve been listening to a version of the song by The Hit Pack [lead singer Robert Dobyne?] which is pretty good too!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Jqsz6ppJMok

I forgot about that version! I'll have to play that in the car when I go out on errands. For me, the Miracles' version is the one I like the most.

[tommy good]

Hi every one, I thought I’d write a few lines to let you know l have some neat pictures from the re-enactment march. It was a lot of fun. I just have to figure out how to post the pic’s.

[mysterysinger]

Look forward to seeing those Tommy.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi every one, I thought I’d write a few lines to let you know l have some neat pictures from the re-enactment march. It was a lot of fun. I just have to figure out how to post the pic’s.

Can't wait to see them! I know how you feel. I'm not tech savvy at all but I finally figured it out and I'm sure you will too - fortunately, it's not super hard. In fact, it was a LOT easier than learning how to get over the rejection letter I got from Motown years ago! [That's a crazy story for another day!]

[tommy good]

Hi everybody, thanks to Ralph, I have a new ID and password and it looks like I’ll be able to post. I’m Impressed with the knowledge you on this site have. I appreciate your kind words and hope I’ll be able. To answer some of your posts.

[ralpht]

Tommy, you made it old pal. So good to have you back.

[tommy good]

Hi to the forum, I wonder if the forum has heard the song [Bad,bad baby] It a bues tune, It’s on my CD. it was the first song written for me, Berry played piano on it and he wrote it. I have been to his apartment to work on the song. Just curious what you guys think of the song.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi to the forum, I wonder if the forum has heard the song It a bues tune, It’s on my CD. it was the first song written for me, Berry played piano on it and he wrote it. I have been to his apartment to work on the song. Just curious what you guys think of the song.

I've heard it and I like it. That Berry himself wrote this for you, I think it demonstrates he was impressed with what he was hearing in your voice; that he went with a blues number, I'd take as a sign he was very impressed with your vocal chops. I know he felt something similar with Chris Clark after her audition and being surprised she could sing bluesier material along the lines of Etta James. "Bad, Bad Baby" definitely isn't lightweight pop.

Now you know, ya [B]gotta tell us about what it was like working with Berry Gordy!

[tommy good]

Hi Ralph, the Tabs were, Rick Maxwell [ On Guitar, and vocals ] Stan Adams [ on Sax, Bass, and vocals ] Bill Micheau [ on Hammond B3 ] Jimmy Lawrence [ on Drums ].
We were together for almost the whole time I was at Motown.

I was at Motown from late 1963 until 1968. They checked all my Songs and said they would like me to come to California, but I didn’t think they were managing me like I thought they should, so I declined.

[ralpht]

Thanks for the info, Tommy. I regret never seeing you guys work. I guess we were all working the six night a week schedule, Monday off.

[WaitingWatchingLookingForAChance]

Hi Ralph, the Tabs were, Rick Maxwell [ On Guitar, and vocals ] Stan Adams [ on Sax, Bass, and vocals ] Bill Micheau [ on Hammond B3 ] Jimmy Lawrence [ on Drums ].
We were together for almost the whole time I was at Motown.

I was at Motown from late 1963 until 1968. They checked all my Songs and said they would like me to come to California, but I didn’t think they were managing me like I thought they should, so I declined.

Did you record at Motown after 1965? The Motown Collection CD pretty much stops around '65. Would be great to find out there are more songs to discover.

[ralpht]

Tommy, you more than likely made the right decision not to relocate to Motown L.A. They made the same offer to Stoney, which she accepted. However after some limited recording she was languishing in the apartment Motown had for her, until boredom had her notify the Creative Division that she was heading back to Detroit to work and if they ever came up with a plan for her to let her know. A gutsy move from a strong women. She called it right. Further evidence that I never cared much for the L.A. operation and would turn down their offer to relocate a couple of years later.

[tommy good]

Hi, to my Motown friends, I thought I’d give a shout out and say I check this forum most every day, and will answer anything I can. Thanks.

[TomatoTom123]

Hi Tommy, I just checked out "Bad Bad Boy", very cool song. I like it.

What's your favourite song that you recorded at Motown?