Hot Butterfly

Released in 1979 on RSO Records, Hot Butterfly is a pivotal entry in the later discography of The Sweet Inspirations. By this time, the group - consisting of Estelle Brown, Myrna Smith, and Sylvia Shemwell - had transitioned from their role as the industry's premier backing vocalists (for Elvis, Aretha, and others) into a sophisticated soul act in their own right. Produced by executive David Kershenbaum, the album is most famous for its title track, a cover of the Gregg Diamond/Bionic Boogie classic that many critics consider the definitive version. Sonically, the album bridges the gap between the Philly Soul of the early 70s and the slicker R&B of the early 80s. It features a high level of musicianship, with session players providing a tight, funk-influenced foundation that never overshadows the group's signature four-part harmonies. Despite the disco-era release date, the album remains deeply soulful, leaning on the group's gospel upbringing to provide emotional depth to even the most danceable tracks.