Expansion Records

If Timeless Legend is the "Holy Grail," then Thelma Jones is the "High Priestess" of the Modern Soul scene. This release (EX7008) features what many consider the quintessential mid-tempo soul dancer of the late 1970s. The Product: Thelma Jones – How Long / I Want What You Want Label: Expansion / Columbia Format: 7" Vinyl Single (45 RPM) Catalog Number: EX7008 Release Year: 2016 Side A: "How Long" Originally a standout track from her 1978 self-titled debut album on Columbia, "How Long" is a masterpiece of "Modern Soul." Written by the powerhouse duo Zane Grey and Len Ron Hanks, it features a sophisticated, driving arrangement that allows Thelma’s powerful, gospel-honed vocals to soar over a crisp, rhythmic production. Side B: "I Want What You Want" The B-side is equally essential, penned by the legendary soul songwriter Sam Dees. It is a deep, emotive ballad that showcases the versatility of Thelma’s voice, moving from the dancefloor energy of the A-side to a soul-stirring, intimate delivery. Fascinating Collector’s Facts & Figures 1. The "Album-Only" Rarity For nearly 40 years, "How Long" was strictly an "album-only" gem. The Figure: Despite being a massive club favorite in the UK and European soul scenes, it was never issued as a 7-inch single during the 1970s. Expansion’s EX7008 release in 2016 marked the first time ever that "How Long" was available on a 45 RPM vinyl record. 2. The Bert DeCoteaux Touch The track was produced by the legendary Bert DeCoteaux, the man responsible for the polished sound of artists like The Main Ingredient and Marlena Shaw. The Fact: DeCoteaux’s signature "sophisticated funk" style is what gives "How Long" its timeless appeal, blending the raw grit of Southern Soul with the high-production values of 1970s New York disco-soul. 3. The Aretha Franklin Connection Collectors prize Thelma Jones not just for her 70s work, but for her 1960s pedigree. The Fact: In 1967, Thelma recorded the original version of "The House That Jack Built." While Aretha Franklin later took the song to the top of the charts, many soul purists consider Thelma's grittier, original version to be the definitive vocal performance. 4. The Grey & Hanks Pedigree Songwriters Zane Grey and Len Ron Hanks were the secret weapons of the 70s soul industry. The Figure: They are the same duo who penned hits for L.T.D. and The Tavares. Their involvement on "How Long" is why the track has such a strong melodic hook—it was crafted by writers who specialized in creating hits that bridged the gap between R&B and the mainstream charts. Technical Specs for Collectors Mastering: This 2016 reissue was lauded for its "super clean and tight" sound. Unlike some early CD transfers, Expansion went back to the original Columbia stems to ensure the 7-inch version had the punchy bass and sharp horns required for modern club play. Secondary Market Value: Although originally released at a standard retail price, EX7008 has become a staple of "Essential Modern Soul" lists. Mint copies are increasingly hard to find as they have moved from record store shelves into the permanent "play boxes" of top-tier soul DJs. Collector's Tip: "How Long" is frequently played in the "Modern Soul Room" at Northern Soul all-nighters. Its 110 BPM (approx.) tempo makes it the perfect "bridge" record to transition from 60s dancers to 80s boogie.