Right On

Recorded in Chicago for Syl Johnson's Is It Because I'm Black album, Right On was written by Johnson and Jimmy Jones and performed with the Pieces of Peace. The group included Bernard Reed on bass, John Bishop on guitar, Hal Nesbitt on drums, Michael Davis on trumpet and Jerry Wilson on saxophone, with production by Jimmy Jones and the Pieces of Peace. Released in 1970, Right On was a seven-minute closing track on Johnson's politically conscious Is It Because I'm Black album. Its extended rhythmic workout, repeated vocal chants and prominent band interplay reflected the growing emphasis on Black cultural identity and musical self-expression during the civil rights era. Right On remains a notable recording from Syl Johnson's Twinight period, preserving the raw ensemble sound of the Pieces of Peace and Johnson's commanding vocal delivery. Its extended arrangement has helped sustain interest in the album among collectors and enthusiasts of late-1960s and early-1970s Chicago soul recordings.