CLARENCE NELSON, "YOU MAKE ME FEEL SO GOOD" C/W "I HURT," PEN 45-352 (REL. 9/1964)

 

You've heard Clarence Nelson many times on Memphis soul records of the 1960s and '70s. His rhythm and lead work is all over Stax, Hi, Volt, Goldwax...you name it, he played on it. He made two singles as a vocalist. Both are scarce; as a singer, he was a great guitarist, but he gives his all on this pair of 1964 originals, and the soul ballad B-side is a real standout.

Though he isn't a household name, Nelson's approach to the guitar influenced Steve Cropper, Reggie Young and other Memphis players of note. Born in Tennessee, he moved to Memphis in 1951, where he got his first gig as guitarist for Benjamin Branch's r&b band. This gig lasted for several years, and Nelson was heard by local audiences, which included young players who would populate the local recording scene.

This single, produced by Sun alumnus Stan Kesler, and he must have liked Clarence to get him on record. This was the final release on the Pen label, which lasted for a few years in the early 1960s and showcased some lesser-known Memphis talent.

"You Make Me Feel So Good" has some Fats Domino influence; New Orleans filtered through Memphis. Nelson's humble vocal is good-natured and charming, but when he takes a guitar solo, which thank heavens he does, he really shines. His tasteful notes and confident timing are impressive on his break.

Far more likable than consensus would have you think, it's a happy li'l toss-off, and there's nothing wrong with that.

"I Hurt" is a stately soul ballad with vocal group and ghostly organ in support of Clarence's down-to-earth voice, which sounds woeful-on-purpose. He strains to reach notes outside his range, which adds to the emotional feel of his performance. He doesn't solo, but his distinctive approach to rhythm guitar drives this solid slow number.

The single got a gruff review in Cash Box; its few words are worth quoting. The A-side: Solid R&B stumper sound. The B: R&B tear-jerk ballad. 

Nelson made a second solo 45 for M-G-M Records in 1967; otherwise, his lead and rhythm guitar work on countless Memphis soul and funk sessions are his lasting legacy.

BONUS: here is an informative YouTube video on Clarence Nelson that puts his work into musical context...
https://youtu.be/Yc-1AKrJc-U

Tomorrow: a week of Dollar Bin Doozies: great 7s purchased for peanuts. Up first are The Five Keys, with a rockin' 1960 King Records platter.