DONNA MCGHEE

Patrick Adams, a legend here at the D3K office, produced many dance classics over his career, but one sticks out as a true classic 'Love Bug' by Bumblebee Unlimited. Not only is this a sublime production but the astonishing vocal of Donna McGhee steals the show. Her own LP 'Make It Last Forever' was a milestone in the world of disco, and her many collaborations with celebrated bands such as the Fatback Band have earned her fans across the globe. The D3K crew caught up with her before a live performance at the GARAGE PARADISE, 24/04/2009 in Imola, Italy.

While you were recording your album ‘Make It Last Forever’, did you ever have the feeling it would become such a milestone in the world of disco?

To be honest, no. While recording ’Make It Last Forever’, I felt it was just another track I was recording, with more priority because it was my first LP. I didn’t realise how the LP would inspire so many people and how it would affect their lives. To my surprise, I never thought my music would become such a milestone in disco especially after 35 years. I am so thankful. I worked with several great musicians on this LP, and of course the incredible Patrick Adams and Greg Carmichael. I am more than humble and happy that my LP is still deeply part of disco music. I can never thank my fans, my DJs, my radio jocks, and everyone else that showed and continue to give love to my music.

How did you start your career?

I started my career with The Fatback Band, in 1974. My first single with them was titled ’Raising Hell’, and the hits, ’Bus Stop’, ’Groovy Kind Of Day’, ’Spanish Hustle’, and many others. I worked with Fatback for the next 3 to 4 LPs. The last LP I played a part in was entitled ’Night Fever’ with the late great Phyllis Hyman.

How was working with Patrick Adams? How did you get involved in recording with him?

Working with the Red Greg Family was fantastic. Gregory Carmichael, who was the CEO of the label, came to me as I was working with another group, and asked me if I would like to sign with his company. My response was a resounding yes, and that is how I met Patrick Adams, who also was aboard the Red Greg Record label. Prior to making ’Make It Last Forever’, I worked on several LPs, such as the Universal Robot Band LP, we recorded the hit single, ’Dance and Shake your tamborine’, and also during that period I recorded with Bumblee Unlimited, which is how the hit single ’Love Bug’ came about. After recording these hits, Patrick Adams wanted to do an LP, called ’The Phreek’, and shortly after we recorded ’May My Love Be With You’. This began the phase of great sucess with Red Greg Records. It was inspiring to work with such producers as Greg Carmichael and Patrick Adams. Without Greg Carmichael there wouldn't have been a Patrick Adams nor Donna McGhee, and other greats. I am truly grateful and happy that we formed such a bond personally and professionally.

Is there a band or producer from the past you really wanted to work with?

I never really thought about it. Considering I have worked with almost everyone in the industry, I’ve been blessed to have the honour to work with the best of the best, from Fatback to Weldon Irving, Roy Ayres, Chaka Khan, Teddy Pendergrass, Crown Heights Affair, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Kool and the Gang, Daddy Kane, Salt-n-Pepper, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Be Be and Ce Winans and so many others I cannot remember. ;) I guess if there was one or two artists I would really enjoy working with now it would be ’The Queen’, Ms. Latifah herself, and the wonderful L.L. Cool J. I admire their growth, their personality, and most of all the love for their fans, their craft and their longevity in the industry. This is what it’s all about when you are a musician’s musician. This is what my life has and always will be about; longevity, loving my craft, keeping it alive, and giving true love to my fans.

Do you follow modern productions in soul, hip hop and house music? Would you work with contemporary producers?

This is a very interesting question. If you are asking me do I listen to modern productions in soul, hip hop, and house, the answer would be yes, as long as the lyrics are not demeaning to anyone , especially women, and the youth. If a producer came to me with a good song and I felt there was meaning behind the lyrics and the music was kicking, I would work with them. I would definitely work with contemporary producers, without a doubt.

Do you see this new revamped interest in disco, boogie and late 70s and early 80s sounds inspiring?

I feel very positive about the interest in the sounds that made an era that will never be erased. Disco and boogie music will always be here and live on.

Is this Garage Paradise gig @ Cap Creus, Bologna [Italy] your first in Europe? What do you expect?

No it's not, I traveled worldwide and internationally when I was with The Fatback Band, and we visited Europe on numerous occasions. I have great expectations for coming over and performing for them. I cannot thank my fans enough, my love will always be with them and I will give them over 200% of my talent. I just want everyone to come out and have a great time, and we will. :) Because together we will ’Make It Last Forever’

What's next for Donna McGhee?

I have a new single ready to hit the airwaves, in the States and internationally. It will be a collectors item, limited edition. The single I am pulling from the CD is called ’I Will Love You Past Your Pain’, and I am very excited about it. The best experience out of this is that I am producing my new CD. My manager Sadar Bahar of ’Soul in the Hole Productions’ has great plans for me. I am very happy and honoured to have such a wonderful manager in my life. I’m ready to tour and promote the single before the CD will be released. Times have never been better for me, I am truly thankful, humble and blessed.

Promotional Links:

» www.myspace.com/donnamcghee