I remember when her first single “Shame”, came out in 1977, I was a mere 13, coming up to 14 years old. Already an avid music collector from the age of 7 with Sly and the Family Stones “Family Affair” being my first purchase in 1971, you know this track here would have to be added to my collection.
Having started going to clubs from that age, Zoom Zoom, Jasper’s, Crackers, 100 Club, Global Village, Lyceum, not forgetting the local discos in the Scout hut at the bottom of my road, where up to date US Soul/ Funk/ Jazz Funk/ Disco and much much more, was the order of the day, period. Those US imports were at the top of the list, and came first, even before clothes, and at that age, that’s really saying something. I always say, buying those 12″ singles every week, kept me broke.
Off down to the local Chequers Records i went, consulted Terry, and purchased my 12″ copy. Though a local, and not a West End record shop, believe me, THEY HAD EVERYTHING, it was astounding.
To say that “Shame” has stood the test of time, and is still a staple in any good part, is an understatement. Not only that, it has been covered and sampled many many times. It really was a treat to hear Evelyn Champagne King perform all of her many hits live, in legendary and intimate setting of Jazz Café, with as much energy in 2025, as she did in 1978, in fact, i think she has upped the anti, and taken performance energy to another level, I do so want her knees, they are incredible. The respect for her body of work is global. Yeni Kuti, first child of music legend Fela Kuti was also present to enjoy the show.
Thank you for your humility and gratitude, for where you are, and all that you have done in your life. Thank you for your grace and hospitality, it was greatly appreciated. Thank you to Craig Brown, we all appreciate you. Evelyn “CHAMPAGNE” King, marked in history as one of the Queens of Disco, continues to shine your light brightly in all that you do. Until next time.
