(December 22, 2021) Alongside The Whispers, Lakeside and Shalamar, Dynasty was one of the first groups to emerge from the SOLAR Records empire and become a staple on R&B radio. Although they didn’t capture the same commercial success of those labelmates, signature jams like “I Don’t Want to Be a Freak (But I Can’t Help Myself),” “I’ve Just Begun to Love You,” and “Do Me Right” established their credibility both stateside and in the UK.
Original vocalists Nidra Beard, Linda Carriere and Kevin Spencer have reunited with drummer Wardell Potts, Jr., and bassist/keyboardist/producer Ricky Smith to release Dynasty’s second single in the past three decades: “I Can Tell.” Staying true to the smooth and funky arrangement style that permeated its hits and finest album cuts, the group is in fine form on the authentically ‘80s-laden jam that seeps in with a cleverly phrased hook, whirly keyboard work, and a grabbing beat.
“I Can Tell” (b/w “Still in Love”) will be released digitally on December 31 and physically on a 7” vinyl single in early January. Of Dynasty’s return, Potts says: “I anticipated this moment for over 30 years, not knowing if we would ever get back together. Now, because of Austin Boogie Crew Records, I’m recording with my bandmates once again!” Sadly, the group’s guitarist Richard Randolph died last year, and their third lead vocalist and keyboardist, William Shelby, passed away just two months ago. Their presence is deeply missed, but they would likely be proud of the new old-school flavor that Dynasty is bringing back to the fold.
Dynasty – “I Can Tell”