A Piece of the Action is a soundtrack album by American rhythm and blues and gospel singer Mavis Staples, from the 1977 film of the same name. It was released on October 10, 1977, by Curtom Records.
Contents
Critical reception
In the October 22, 1977 issue, Billboard reviewed the album: "Staples soulfully interprets the musical score, written and produced by Curtis Mayfield, of the flick starring Sidney Poitier, Bill Cosby and James Earl Jones. Staples and Mayfield collaborated previously on "Let's Do It Again", although then supported by her singing sisters. Mayfield's funky rhythms and evocative lyrics are among the composer's better recent efforts. While Staples' throaty vocals remain passionate, Mayfield's backup session men supply the funk. Best cuts: "Chocolate City", "A Piece of the Action", "'Til Blossoms Bloom" and "Koochie, Koochie, Koochie".
Personnel
Adapted from the album liner notes.
Roger Anfinsen - engineer
Gil Askey - strings and horn arrangements
Fred Breitberg - engineer
Sol Bobrov - string and horn contractor
Mattie Butler - background vocals
Tony D'Orio - cover portrait
Marc Hauser - cover portrait
Denese Heard - background vocals
Henry Hicks Jr. - background vocals
Ricki Linton - background vocals
Curtis Mayfield - producer, rhythm arrangements
Rich Tufo - keyboards, strings and horn arrangements
Jim Schubert - art direction and design
Alfonso Surrett - background vocals
Keni Burke - bass
Joseph "Lucky" Scott - bass
Donelle Hagan - drums
Quinton Joseph - drums
Henry Gibson - congas, percussion
Floyd Morris - keyboards, synthesizers
Curtis Mayfield, Gary Thompson - guitars