“Encore,” released in 1983, is an R&B hit single by acclaimed R&B/soul singer Cheryl Lynn. Written and produced by the legendary Minneapolis funk duo Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, the song marked a milestone as their first number-one R&B hit as producers and Lynn’s second chart-topping R&B single. Despite peaking at #69 on the Billboard Hot 100, it became the most successful track from her fifth studio album, Preppie. The song also found success in the dance scene, climbing to #6 on the U.S. Dance chart.
+De-notes vinyl-only
SIDE A: Encore (Dance Version)+ 8:20
SIDE B: Encore (Dance Version)+ 8:20
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
U.S. CHART HISTORY:
Year
Single
Chart
Position
1984
Encore
U.S. Billboard Hot 100
#69
1984
Encore
U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles
#1
1984
Encore
U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music / Club Play
#6
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Columbia – 44 04257
Format: Vinyl, 12″, Promo, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 1983
Genre: Funk / Soul
Style: Soul, Disco
Halloween is finally here! and it’s time for one last Spooky Season Spin one such standout song is Whodini’s 1983 hit, “The Haunted House of Rock.” Released as a Halloween single, this song not only showcases Whodini’s lyrical style and creativity but also helps bridge the gap between hip-hop and seasonal novelty music.
Formed in Brooklyn in the early 80s, Whodini was one of the pioneering groups in hip-hop, blending R&B, funk, and early hip-hop styles. The trio, originally consisting of Jalil Hutchins, Ecstasy (John Fletcher), and DJ Drew Carter (aka Grandmaster Dee), made a name for themselves with their catchy hooks and fresh beats, standing out in a rapidly growing hip-hop scene. With hits like “Friends,”“Freaks Come Out at Night,” and “Five Minutes of Funk,” Whodini quickly established themselves as a key player in 80s hip-hop. “The Haunted House of Rock” was one of their earliest hits and brought something unexpected—a hip-hop track made specifically for Halloween.
Released in 1983, “The Haunted House of Rock”* was produced by Larry Smith, who also worked with Run-D.M.C. and helped shape the sound of early hip-hop. The song opens with a haunting synth line that immediately sets the tone. Its eerie yet funky beat lays the groundwork for the perfect Halloween track, blending 80s electronic vibes with Whodini’s unique style of storytelling rap.
The lyrics take listeners on a tour of a fictional haunted house party, where classic monsters like Dracula, the Mummy, and the Invisible Man join forces with Whodini for a night of eerie revelry. Hutchins and Fletcher use the song to describe a spooky yet entertaining scene full of thrills and chills, making it as fun as it is fantastical.
The production on “The Haunted House of Rock” is quintessentially 80s, leaning heavily into synthesizers, drum machines, and that unmistakable hip-hop groove. The song uses creative sound effects and samples that add to its supernatural theme. From creaky door sounds to ghostly moans, the production choices enhance the atmosphere, transforming the song into a haunted audio experience that fits right in with Halloween playlists. Larry Smith’s work on this track is a testament to his ability to blend genres, and his influence can be felt in many of Whodini’s subsequent works.
Upon its release, “The Haunted House of Rock” garnered attention for its creativity and originality. At a time when hip-hop was still finding its identity, Whodini dared to bring a fun, seasonal twist to the genre. The song remains a unique piece of hip-hop history—a Halloween-themed rap that set the stage for future holiday hits. While it may not have reached the chart-topping heights of Whodini’s later songs, it remains a beloved part of their catalog and a go-to Halloween track for hip-hop enthusiasts.
The song was later included on Whodini’s debut album, “Whodini,” which featured other hits that would go on to define the group’s career. Despite being a novelty track, “The Haunted House of Rock” has endured over the decades as a Halloween staple, making it a perfect addition to any spooky-themed playlist.
In an era where Halloween music often leans heavily on horror movie soundtracks and pop hits, Whodini’s “The Haunted House of Rock” stands out as one of the rare early hip-hop songs specifically for the holiday. Its playful lyrics, spooky vibes, and retro sound capture Halloween’s essence while offering a classic hip-hop taste that still resonates with fans today.
Whether you’re a hip-hop head or just looking to add some 80s flavor to your Halloween festivities, “The Haunted House of Rock” is a must-listen.
All tracks are vinyl-only
SIDE A: The Haunted House Of Rock (Extended Version) 6:35 The Haunted House Of Rock (Haunted Mix) 4:33
SIDE B: The Haunted House Of Rock (Vocoder Version) 5:29 The Haunted House Of Rock (Acapella) 1:55
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Jive – JD1-9026, Arista – JD-1-9026
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM
Country: US
Released: 1983
Genre: Hip Hop, Pop
Style: Electro, Boom Bap, Pop Rap
Edgar Winter’s “Frankenstein ’84” is a reimagined version of his classic instrumental hit, Frankenstein, originally released in 1972. The 1984 version takes the rock instrumental to a new level by incorporating the synthesizer-heavy sound that had grown popular in the 80s. This updated version brings an electronic twist to the original’s signature guitar and keyboard riffs, adding a bit of synth-pop flair to the song while maintaining its hard rock roots.
While the original Frankenstein is famous for its progressive rock elements and complex arrangement (including a memorable drum solo), Frankenstein ’84 leans into a mix of rock and 80s electronic elements, blending synthesizers with heavy guitar and electronic drums. This remake underscores Winter’s versatility and his ability to innovate across genres, showcasing his musical skills in guitar, saxophone, and synthesizer.
The Frankenstein ’84 remix didn’t achieve the same chart-topping success as the original Frankenstein, which had been a major hit in 1973, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the most iconic rock instrumentals of its time. Despite its innovative remix production and appeal within 80s dance scenes, Frankenstein ’84 was more of a cult favorite than a chart hit.
While the remix breathed new life into the classic, introducing it to a younger, more dance-oriented audience, it didn’t chart significantly in the U.S. or internationally. However, Frankenstein ’84 maintained a presence on 12” singles and in clubs, where extended and remixed versions of popular songs were frequently played. This version became popular among fans of Edgar Winter and the synth-heavy remix styles of the era, securing a legacy as a unique 80s reinterpretation of a 70s rock classic.
The music video for Frankenstein ’84 embraced the energetic and experimental spirit of the 80s, mirroring the song’s transformation into a danceable, synth-driven rock piece. In the video, Edgar Winter plays a prominent role, performing his famous synthesizer riffs and saxophone solos with a futuristic edge. The visuals are full of 80s flair, with neon lighting, strobe effects, and a surreal, almost sci-fi aesthetic that complements the track’s title and its Frankenstein theme.
Set against a dramatic, dark backdrop with flashes of color, the video has a Frankenstein-esque lab atmosphere. Winter is often shown surrounded by synthesizers, drum machines, and flashing lights, emphasizing the remix’s electronic makeover. The production leans heavily on visual effects that feel both eerie and futuristic, capturing the transformation of the original rock classic into an electrifying 80s remix.
The video reflects Edgar Winter’s eccentric style and adds an element of theatricality to the song, aligning with the era’s tendency to produce visually experimental music videos. This visual style helped to promote the remix to a new generation and allowed Winter’s eclectic musical persona to shine.
NEW 2024 Transfer! NEW Meticulous Audio restoration!
Originally posted May 20, 2012
“You’re Looking Hot Tonight” was one of three new songs recorded for Barry Manilow’s thirteenth studio album Greatest Hits Vol. II., released in 1983 The single did well in the US peaking at #25 AC and #18 Dance, in the UK the single peaked at #47.
As a bonus track, I included the “Disconet Extended Edit” in Disconet Program Service Volume 6 Program 8 in 1984.
To my knowledge, all of the remixes on this 12″ are vinyl-only. The b-side track “Let’s Get On With It” is from the 1982 Barry Manilow LP “Here Comes The Nigh” aka “I Wanna Do It With You”.
