(I Got) so Much Trouble in My Mind

Recorded in 1972 by Washington, D.C. singer, trumpeter and songwriter Sir Joe Quarterman with his band Free Soul, featuring guitarists George 'Jackie' Lee and Willie Parker, bassist Gregory Hammonds, keyboardist Karissa Freeman, drummer Charles Steptoe and saxophonist Leon Rogers. The recording was produced by Bill Tate, Cotter Wells and Cory Pearson for Mantis Record Corporation and first issued locally as a two-part single. Released in 1972, the song addressed social unrest, drug addiction and the Vietnam War, reflecting the politically conscious Black American music of the period. Local radio support helped bring the record to national attention, reaching number 30 on Billboard's Hot Soul Singles chart in January 1973 and leading to its inclusion on Quarterman's debut album. The recording became a favourite of Britain's rare groove movement during the 1980s and was subsequently sampled by artists including The 45 King, 3rd Bass, UTFO and Bell Biv DeVoe. Its enduring reputation was further strengthened by its inclusion in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and the 2020 reissue of Sir Joe Quarterman & Free Soul by Mr Bongo.