Barbara Lynn - Unloved, Unwanted Me / Soul Deep - Available now.

Spooner Oldham produced six recordings on Barbara Lynn for Atlantic in mid-1968, but session information had previously been scant. Spooner Oldham recently confirmed that these tracks were recorded at American Studios in Memphis, and when the late Red Kelly (Soul Detective) digitised Reggie Young's session diaries his endeavours presented further clarity.

Reggie's 1968 diary indicates two American Studios sessions on June 14th and 15th. Four songs were recorded, with "Unloved, Unwanted Me" being shelved. No song writing credits were documented, but the song's sorrowful yearning is perfectly executed by Barbara.

A third session the following month yielded two more songs, including the first known recording of "Soul Deep" (its writer Wayne Carson and The Box Tops each recorded the song in 1969). Reggie's diary documents a fortnight's holiday in July, but the distinct lack of guitar and the audible presence of other American Studios musicians further suggests that Barbara's version was possibly recorded in Memphis too.

Both songs make their 7"vinyl debut here. Enjoy!

Mark Nicholson