Private Stock Records

Private Stock: The Groove that Got Personal

Private Stock Records wasn’t just a label, it was a movement. Born in the late ’70s, it epitomized the funkier side of disco, adding a smooth, soulful touch to the rhythm and injecting a dose of personal flair into the party scene.

Led by the visionary duo of **Larry Levan** (legendary DJ at Paradise Garage) and **Arthur Russell** (a multi-talented musician who later became a revered minimalist composer), Private Stock became synonymous with a distinct sound. Their music transcended the dance floor, offering a sonic escape for the romantics, the dreamers, and the lovers.

Their **signature sound** was a mix of **soulful vocals**, **deep, pulsating basslines**, and **soothing, melodic synths**. It was disco, but with a deeper, more contemplative edge, infused with elements of **R&B, funk, and even jazz**.

**Here’s what made Private Stock stand out:**

• **Unconventional Songwriting:** They explored themes beyond typical disco fluff, weaving in tales of yearning, longing, and introspection.
• **Focus on Melody:** Their music prioritized lyrical hooks and memorable melodies, making their tracks as enjoyable for casual listening as they were for dancing.
• **A Touch of Elegance:** Private Stock had a knack for crafting sophisticated arrangements, adding a touch of class to the disco aesthetic.

**Their legacy is still felt today, with tracks like:**

• “**Love Hangover**” by Diana Ross (which redefined disco with its hypnotic groove)
• “**The Boss**” by Diana Ross (a powerful anthem of self-assertion)
• “**I’m So Excited**” by The Pointer Sisters (a joyous, infectious hit)
• “**The Bells**” by The Originals (a soulful ballad with a timeless appeal)

These tracks became dance floor staples, and their enduring popularity speaks to the timeless quality of the Private Stock sound.

**Private Stock wasn’t just about the music. It was about building a community.** Levan and Russell nurtured a diverse network of artists, including:

• **The Ritchie Family:** Their signature sound was pure disco joy, with hits like “**Brazil**” and “**A Love Like Ours**”.
• **Sylvia Striplin:** Her powerful vocals brought soul and grit to tracks like “**You Can’t Turn Me Away**” and “**You’re the One**”.
• **First Choice:** This group blended smooth disco with funk and soul, creating classics like “**Armed and Extremely Dangerous**” and “**Let No Man Put Asunder**”.

This shared vision fostered an atmosphere of creativity and collaboration, leading to a vibrant musical landscape that transcended genre boundaries.

Today, Private Stock Records is remembered as a beacon of innovation and artistry. Their influence continues to inspire musicians and DJs, ensuring that their unique sound remains relevant for generations to come.

If you’re looking for music that’s both soulful and sophisticated, with a touch of disco magic, dive into the world of Private Stock Records. It’s a groovy journey worth taking.