 IT'S well over a year ago that Ronnie Dyson took "When You Get Right Down To It" to the top of both pop and soul charts in this country. But the ensuing thirteen months or so haven't even brought a follow-up release — that is, until now when "One Man Band" attains release.
Perhaps the truth is that this is the first single on Ronnie that is worthy of release — his two American releases. "Jesus Is Just Alright" and "A Wednesday In Your Garden", were anything but successful. But "One Man Band" is already leaping up the American charts.
It also marks the first time that Ronnie has worked with Thom Bell, who not only co-wrote the song but also produced the session at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia.
"He's fantastic to work with." Ronnie enthused, "and I think that the thing that hit me most was how easy he is to work with. We actually cut four songs on that session and I have to be truthful and say that the two that are not released are the best. We did the session just around Christmas time. Why the delay in between releases? Well. I think it's simply because we were waiting for Thom Bell to be ready for us. My manager had been trying to get Thom for a while and we really had to wait until he had the time to do the job. So, rather than risk a second-rate session, we sat back and waited. Yes, I think it's worth it!"
With the tremendous amount of interest in the black cinema, there's a whole string of soul artists about to grace the silver screen in the next few months. Ronnie looks set to join the list because he has been selected to take the star role in the upcoming movie. "The Frankie Lymon Story", which is more of a general story than the title suggests.
"The script deals more with the era than with Frankie Lymon himself." Ronnie explained. "Frankie is merely the focal point for the story but it's not like a Billie Holiday Story, which deals specifically with her life story. I think it will appeal to people who grew up in that era and also to younger people, who will be interested in the life styles of the 50's.
"I grew up in the same manner that Frankie Lymon did so I think I will be able to feel the part quite easily. You know, the whole thing appeals to me and I'm looking forward to the tremendous challenge it will present. I imagine that there will be a soundtrack album but it will feature Frankie Lymon's songs. They are even talking to Michael Jackson about whether he would be interested in filming the early part of Frankie Lymon's life."
Maybe, after the hiatus in Ronnie's career, he will continue the path to the top that is obviously destined for him. "One Man Band" is certainly a big step in the right direction.
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