Charles Brimmer

Biography

Charles Brimmer, born October 10, 1948, in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward, emerged as a significant figure in the city’s soul and R&B scene from the mid-1960s through the early 1980s. His musical journey began in gospel choirs as a child, but by high school, he was already venturing into secular music, joining the local group The Ravens and replacing Carl Weathers, who would later become famous as an actor. Brimmer’s early solo recordings were produced by Wardell Quezergue and released on the ABS label, followed by a series of singles on Dave Bartholomew’s Broadmoor imprint, including the well-received 'The Feeling Is In My Heart.'[1][3][4][5]

After high school, Brimmer joined David Batiste and the Gladiators, gaining a reputation as a versatile and dynamic live performer who could interpret the latest soul and R&B hits with authenticity and flair. Despite setbacks with record labels and unfulfilled album promises, Brimmer’s persistence led to regional hits and eventually to his best-known work in the 1970s, including the album 'Expressions of Soul' and the hit single 'God Bless Our Love.' His style, rooted in deep Southern soul, combined gospel-influenced vocals with the rhythmic sensibilities of New Orleans R&B, earning him a loyal local following and recognition among Northern Soul enthusiasts internationally. Though his national profile was limited by industry challenges and the rise of disco, Brimmer’s recordings remain prized by collectors and soul aficionados.[1][2][4][8]

Fun Facts

• Charles Brimmer replaced Carl Weathers (later famous as Apollo Creed in the Rocky movies) in The Ravens during high school.
• He earned an accounting degree from Southern University at New Orleans, funding his studies through music gigs.
• Brimmer's single 'God Bless Our Love' sold 60,000 copies in New Orleans alone, making it one of the city's biggest hits after the Jacksons' 'ABC.'
• Despite his local fame, much of Brimmer's catalog remains unavailable on CD and is sought after by soul collectors.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Wardell Quezergue - Arranger and producer who guided Brimmer's early recording sessions and helped shape his sound. (Early singles for ABS label, including 'The Glide') [late 1960s]

Key Collaborators

• David Batiste and the Gladiators - Brimmer was a member of this prominent New Orleans soul band, performing live and gaining valuable stage experience. (Live performances (no specific albums cited)) [late 1960s]
• Senator Jones - Record producer who encouraged Brimmer to record 'God Bless Our Love' and released music on the Hep' Me label. ('God Bless Our Love', Hep' Me label singles) [1970s]
• Dave Bartholomew - Produced and released Brimmer's singles on the Broadmoor label. ('Black Is Beautiful', 'The Feeling Is In My Heart') [late 1960s]

Artists Influenced

• Northern Soul DJs and collectors - Brimmer's deep soul recordings became prized on the Northern Soul scene in the UK, influencing DJs and collectors. ('The Glide', 'God Bless Our Love') [1970s-present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. The Feeling Is in My Heart (Art Laboe Oldies, Vol. 1)
2. God Bless Our Love (New Orleans Rhythm & Blues - Hep Me Records Vol. 1)
3. That's How Strong My Love Is (New Orleans Rhythm & Blues - Hep Me Records Vol. 2)
4. God Bless Our Love (Pts. 1 & 2) (Expression of Soul)
5. Dedicating My Life to You (The R&B Files: Amplified Heart, Vol. 3)
6. Your Man is Going to be in Trouble (R&B Founders Vol. 2)
7. Dont Break My Heart (R&B Founders Vol. 2)
8. Stairway to Heaven (New Orleans Rhythm & Blues - Hep Me Records Vol. 1)
9. Kung Fu Man, Pt. 1 and Pt. 2 (Senator Jones' Funky Funky New Orleans)
10. Your Man's Gonna Be in Trouble (The R & B Files: Rare Cuts, Vol. 2)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia