Expansion Records

Expansion is proud to present the long-awaited first reissue of Bobby Hutton's 1973 LP "Piece of the Action". This special release includes bonus tracks on the CD, featuring everything Hutton recorded between 1969 and 1974, all meticulously remastered from the original master tapes. Additionally, two 7” reissues are also available, providing further gems from his catalogue.

Bobby Hutton, hailing from Detroit, Michigan, made his mark in 1971 when he performed on the very first nationally televised episode of "Soul Train". Influenced heavily by Jackie Wilson, Hutton initially wrote under his birth name, Harold Hutton. However, Billy Davis of Chess Records encouraged him to adopt the stage name Bobby Hutton. While he had the option to pursue a career with Motown, Hutton chose a different path. After releasing a single for Checker, and another for Blue Rock (a Mercury subsidiary), he moved to Philips Records, where he recorded the Northern Soul anthem, “Come See What’s Left of Me.” This track gained legendary status through spins at the Stafford All-Nighters in the UK. During his time with Blue Rock and Philips, he worked with esteemed talents like Donny Hathaway and Joshie Jo Armstead, who produced and arranged several tracks. These Philips recordings are included as bonus tracks on the CD, accompanying his 1973 "Piece of the Action" LP for ABC Records. Notably, they feature "You're My Whole Reason," a song Hutton performed on that historic first "Soul Train" broadcast.

"Piece of the Action" was produced by Dee Ervin and includes several standout tracks, but none more iconic than the Gary Wright-penned “Lend A Hand.” This song became one of the most beloved ‘modern’ Northern Soul classics, thanks to plays at legendary UK venues such as the Blackpool Mecca’s Highland Room and Wigan Casino. DJ Colin Curtis was the first to champion the track in 1974.

The album showcases Hutton's vocal prowess, complemented by backing vocals from artists such as Patti Hamilton of The Lovelites, Jean Plum, Mikki Farrow, and Frankie Karl. It received rave reviews upon release, prompting ABC to issue a non-album follow-up 45, produced by the brilliant McKinley Jackson and Reginald Dozier. The single, “Loving You, Wanting You, Needing You” backed with “Watch Where You’re Going,” has since become a rare and highly coveted item among soul collectors worldwide.

In 2007, Hutton’s contributions to soul music were recognised when he was voted Chicago’s Best Singer—an accolade that speaks to his enduring talent and something of which Hutton is justifiably proud.

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