War of the Gods
1973
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War of the Gods is the fifth studio album by soul singer Billy Paul, released in November 1973 on Philadelphia International Records. The album was produced by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, with arrangements by Bobby Martin and Lenny Pakula. It is known for its extended psychedelic soul song suites that fuse jazz, soul, funk, Latin, rock, and pop elements. The album's outer gatefold depicts the full artwork, while the inner gatefold shows Billy Paul in colorful garb on a rocky landscape, suggesting a transporting, otherworldly quality to the music. In 2012, Big Break Records remastered and reissued the album on CD with bonus tracks and new liner notes.
Recording Info
Recorded in 1973 at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, with producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff.
Track Highlights
- I See the Light
- War of the Gods — A 10-minute track reflecting on the evil in the world and seeking atonement.
- The Whole Town's Talking
- I Was Married
- Thanks for Saving My Life — Reached number 37 on the pop chart and number 9 on the soul chart.
- Peace Holy Peace — An emotive and spiritual track with a celestial choir of backing vocalists.
Personnel
- Billy Paul (Lead and backing vocals)
- Kenny Gamble (Producer, Writer)
- Leon Huff (Producer, Writer, Piano)
- Bobby Eli (Guitar)
- Bunny Sigler (Guitar, Writer)
- David Bay (Guitar)
- Norman Harris (Guitar)
- Roland Chambers (Guitar)
- Eddie Green (Piano)
- Vincent Montana, Jr. (Vibraphone)
- Anthony Jackson (Bass)
- Ron Baker (Bass)
Significance
War of the Gods reached number 12 on the Billboard soul chart and number 110 on the pop chart. It is considered a departure from Paul's previous work, featuring only six songs, most of which are extended psychedelic soul suites. In the 2012 reissue liner notes, Billy Paul called it "the best album I've ever done in my life". Joe Marchese of The Second Disc described it as one of the most provocative and passionate albums from the singer and label.
A white-label, promo-only single of "War of the Gods (Part II)" was issued to radio only and has never been made commercially available.
Track List
Apple Music
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