Expansion Records

This release is a fascinating piece of soul archaeology. The 7XE005 catalog number represents a collaboration between Expansion Records and the renowned soul researcher Dave Simpson, whose "Simpson Uniquity" series unearthed several unissued Motown-related masters that had been gathering dust for decades. The Product: Simpson Uniquity – Little Girl / Run, Run, Run Label: Expansion / Simpson Uniquity Format: 7" Vinyl Single (45 RPM) Catalog Number: 7XE005 Release Year: 2016 Side A: "Little Girl" This is a high-octane, quintessential 1960s Northern Soul dancer. While the artist is credited under the series name "Simpson Uniquity," the track features the powerful, uncredited vocals of a Motown-era stalwart. It has that unmistakable Detroit "four-to-the-floor" beat, driving tambourines, and a soaring brass section that epitomizes the "Sound of Young America." Side B: "Run, Run, Run" A frantic, up-tempo stomper that was clearly designed for the dancefloor. It captures the raw energy of the mid-60s soul scene, where the rhythm section was pushed to the absolute limit to keep the "all-nighter" crowds moving. Fascinating Collector’s Facts & Figures 1. The "Anonymous" Artist Mystery One of the most intriguing aspects of the 7XE series is the "Simpson Uniquity" branding. The Fact: Because of complex licensing and contractual issues surrounding unissued Motown tapes, the actual vocalists were often not officially named on the label. The Figure: Collectors and "soul detectives" have largely identified the lead on "Little Girl" as Lillie Hamilton (formerly of The Velvelettes). This "secret" identity makes the record a must-have for Motown completists who want every vocal performance from that legendary roster. 2. The Dave Simpson Legacy Dave Simpson was a legendary figure in the UK soul scene, known for his relentless pursuit of "lost" tapes. The Impact: This 2016 release was a tribute to his life's work. Simpson worked directly with Expansion to ensure these tracks didn't just stay in the vaults but were given a high-quality vinyl pressing that honored the original production standards of the 60s. 3. The 50-Year Wait These tracks were recorded during the mid-to-late 1960s but remained unheard for half a century. The Figure: When "Little Girl" finally debuted on the Northern Soul scene in the 2010s (initially as a "cover up" play by top DJs), it was the first "new" 60s-style anthem to hit the scene in years. The 7XE005 release was the first time the public could actually own it on a 45. 4. Limited "Yellow Label" Status The 7XE series was pressed in significantly smaller quantities than the standard EX7 series. The Scarcity: These were produced specifically for the hard-core Northern Soul market. Because they were unissued masters rather than reissues of known hits, they carry a high level of prestige. The Market: Mint copies of 7XE005 are rarely seen in "bargain bins." They are held tightly by DJs and collectors, and their value has steadily increased as the "unissued Motown" niche becomes more popular. Technical Specs for Collectors Mastering: Unlike some modern Northern Soul "boots" that are dubbed from low-quality acetates, 7XE005 was mastered from original studio multi-tracks. This results in a crisp, punchy sound that actually sounds better than many original 60s pressings. The Label: The yellow and black label design is a nod to the "demo" labels of the 60s, a aesthetic choice that resonates deeply with "white label" hunters. Collector's Tip: If you enjoy the Simpson Uniquity series, keep an eye out for 7XE001 (The Lewis Sisters). The entire "Simpson" sub-catalog on Expansion is considered a gold mine for anyone searching for that authentic, high-energy Detroit soul sound.