Help Is on the Way

Recorded by Baltimore vocal group The Whatnauts during the sessions for their final studio album for the Stang label. The recording paired the group's harmony-led soul style with socially conscious songwriting and lush orchestral arrangements associated with producer George Kerr. Released in 1971, the song stood apart from many contemporary love songs through its message of community support and collective responsibility. It reinforced the group's reputation for sophisticated harmony singing and emotionally direct performances. The recording became highly regarded among soul collectors and later gained additional recognition through extensive sampling by hip-hop producers. Its opening arrangement and vocal passages made it a particularly influential source record during the golden age of sampling.