Today’s classic song of the day is a neat little piece of Chicago soul by singer Tyrone Davis. The song is “Turning Point” and it was released as a single in early 1976. It didn’t crack the Billboard Hot 100 but went all the way to #1 on Billboard’s R&B chart.
Tyrone Davis had a string of hits in the ’70s, including former classic songs of the day “Turn Back the Hands of Time” and “Can I Change My Mind.” He always did better on the soul charts than the mainstream charts, as was the case with “Turning Point.” That’s a shame; this one should have been a mainstream hit, as well.
“Turning Point” was written and produced by Leo Graham. Mr. Graham later won a Grammy for writing and producing “Shining Star” for the Manhattans in 1980. (Don’t confuse the Manhattan’s “Shining Star” with Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Shining Star” from 1975; they’re completely different tunes.)
I’ve always liked Tyrone Davis as an artist and Chicago soul as a genre. Compared to the Motown or Stax records of the time, Chicago soul was a a little lighter, a little sweeter, and typically had more intricate rhythm section arrangements. You’ll recognize it when you hear it.
Tyrone Davis had a few more R&B hits after “Turning Point,” including “So Good (To Be Home With You),” “Give It Up (Turn It Loose),” “This I Swear,” “Get On Up,” “In the Mood,” and “Are You Serious,” though none crossed over onto the mainstream pop charts. He continued recording and performing on the soul and oldies circuits until his death in 2005, aged 67.
For today’s daily bonus video of the day, here’s Mr. Tyrone Davis performing “Turning Point” live in 1980. Classy.
