New Sly and the Family Stone 1967 Live Recording To Be Released

Renowned for their groundbreaking contributions to the genres of funk, soul, and rock, Sly and the Family Stone remain an influential name in music history. Recently, a treasured piece of the band’s early legacy has been unearthed and is set to be shared with the public. The earliest live recording of the band, captured at Winchester Cathedral in Redwood City, California, will be released on July 18 as part of the album The First Family: Live at Winchester Cathedral 1967. This release is a significant event for music historians and fans alike, offering a rare glimpse into the formative years of a band that would eventually achieve international stardom.

The live recording, made during a performance on March 26, 1967, captures Sly and the Family Stone during a residency period that showcased their development into musical innovators. Before their signing with Epic Records and the release of their debut album A Whole New Thing later that year, this live set provides a window into the band’s early dynamics and energy on stage. The tapes, originally recorded by the band’s first manager, Rich Romanello, were rediscovered decades later by Dutch archivists Edwin and Arno Konings and have been meticulously restored by producer Alec Palao. This painstaking restoration ensures that the original essence of the performances is preserved for modern audiences.

High Moon Records now brings this significant recording back to life, offering a variety of formats including LP, CD, and digital access. Each physical edition comes with a deluxe booklet featuring extensive liner notes by Palao and rare interviews with the original band members, adding valuable context and insights into the recording. Moreover, the inclusion of never-before-seen photos enriches the historical tapestry, allowing fans to visually connect with the era and atmosphere of these early performances.

Musically, the album is a testament to the band’s eclectic style and tight-knit ensemble playing, exemplifying why they were one of the most influential acts of their time. The tracklist includes songs that blend energetic funk with soulful melodies, such as “I Ain’t Got Nobody,” “Skate Now,” and a live rendition of Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness,” which is featured exclusively on the CD version of the album. One standout performance is “I Gotta Go Now (Up on the Floor) / Funky Broadway,” a vibrant showcase of the band’s unique sound and Sly Stone’s charismatic leadership. This particular track serves as both a nostalgic callback and an exciting discovery for those eager to experience the style and innovation that characterized Sly and the Family Stone’s early work.

Sly and the Family Stone helped define the sound of the late 1960s and early 70s, breaking barriers not only in music but also in social integration, as the band’s diverse lineup was groundbreaking at the time. The release of *The First Family: Live at Winchester Cathedral 1967* offers a valuable addition to their discography, capturing a fleeting but potent moment before their rise to fame. Through High Moon Records’ release, fans are invited to experience the nascent energy and creativity of a band on the brink of becoming one of the defining forces of an era. This release is more than just a nostalgic trip; it is a preservation of musical heritage, an homage to a band that continues to inspire musicians and audiences worldwide.