Uphill Peace of Mind

Recorded for Kid Dynamite's self-titled 1976 album, 'Uphill Peace of Mind' features Val Garcia on lead vocals, Michael Mallen on guitar, Dicky Thompson on bass and keyboards, and John King on drums and percussion. Produced by Dick Thompson and Hal Winn, the recording was engineered and mixed by Chuck Britz. Released in 1976 on Cream Records, 'Uphill Peace of Mind' was Kid Dynamite's interpretation of Frederick Knight's composition, previously recorded by The Gospel Truth in 1975. Its prominent drum break and driving instrumental arrangement subsequently made it a favourite among hip-hop DJs and breakbeat collectors. The recording became a foundational breakbeat through its inclusion in the influential Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation series. Its drum break was subsequently sampled in hip-hop productions including Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's 'Nuthin' but a G Thang', securing its lasting importance in sampling culture.