Description
The Monitors – Grazing In The Grass – Vinyl Record
Grazing in the Grass is a song originally composed and recorded as an instrumental by Hugh Masekela in 1968. The Monitors, a soul group from Detroit, also recorded a vocal version of this song. The Monitors were signed to Motown Records and are known for their smooth harmonies and soulful sound, contributing to the rich legacy of Motown music.
A short-lived group, the Monitors had only one release on Motown from November 1965 to August 1968. The group consisted of Richard Street, Warren Harris, and Sandra and John Fagin (it’s unclear whether the Fagins were siblings or a couple). Harris had attended Northwestern High School in Detroit with future Temptations Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, and Street; he joined Williams and Franklin in the Distants, but later quit after which, the Distants merged with the Primes and signed with Motown as the Temptations.
The Monitors’ version of “Grazing in the Grass” features a blend of soul and R&B, characterized by smooth vocals, rhythmic grooves, and rich harmonies. As part of the Motown label, their rendition reflects the polished and infectious sound that Motown was famous for during the 1960s and 70s.
The Monitors’ version stands out with its tight vocal harmonies, showcasing the group’s ability to deliver smooth and cohesive vocal performances. The song maintains a rhythmic and upbeat groove, driven by a steady bass line and catchy percussion, making it suitable for dancing and easy listening. The song includes memorable melodic hooks that capture the essence of the original instrumental while adding a new layer with its vocal rendition.
The lyrics of Grazing in the Grass reflect themes of joy and celebration, creating a feel-good atmosphere that resonates with listeners. The title and lyrics evoke imagery of nature and relaxation, contributing to the song’s laid-back and positive vibe.
The production is polished and professional, characteristic of Motown recordings, with a clear and balanced mix that highlights both the vocals and instrumentation. The song features traditional Motown instrumentation, including bass, drums, keyboards, and brass, creating a rich and full sound.
The Monitors’ version of Grazing in the Grass was well-received, adding to the popularity of the original instrumental and showcasing the group’s talent. The song contributes to the legacy of Motown, reflecting the label’s ability to produce hit records that appeal to a wide audience.
Grazing in the Grass by The Monitors stands as a testament to the group’s ability to reinterpret a popular instrumental and make it their own with soulful vocals and the signature Motown sound. The song captures the joy and celebration that is characteristic of the era and continues to be enjoyed by fans of classic soul and R&B music.
The Monitors’ version of Grazing in the Grass is a delightful addition to the song’s history, blending smooth vocal harmonies with the infectious rhythms of Motown. For fans of soul and Motown music, this rendition offers a fresh take on a classic tune, maintaining the joyous and uplifting spirit of the original while showcasing the unique talents of The Monitors. Whether you are a long-time fan of Motown or new to the genre, Grazing in the Grass by The Monitors is a track that captures the essence of an era and the enduring appeal of soul music.
Brand new, never played, unsealed
Motorcity Records 1990
Track Listing
Grazing In The Grass
Cold As Ice
Rescue My Heart
Through The Test Of Time
Brainstorm
Going To A Go-Go
You Are My Destiny
Tears Of A Clown
Forever And Ever
Standing Still
Dat By Day
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