Landslide - Tony Clarke

Another stunning Northern Soul dancefloor filler was “Landslide,” by Tony Clarke.

Tony Clarke's tragic story is about a life brimming with a musical potential that ended far too soon.

Raised in Detroit by his mother after his 1940 New York birth, Tony, whose birth name may have been Ralph Thomas Williams, sang as Tall Tonio and married Joyce at sixteen. He was also a talented songwriter, co-writing hits for Etta James, among others.

Signing with the renowned Chess label, he had several hits and performed at significant Detroit venues.

The late 1960s saw his marriage become shaky, and he subsequently broke into his wife's home before dawn on August 28, 1971. He allegedly attacked her with a tire jack, and she responded by fatally shooting him. The shooting was determined to be an act of self-defense.

His popularity experienced a revival on the UK Northern Soul scene after his passing, with his songs “The Entertainer” and “Landslide” frequently played in clubs.

His records are difficult to find nowadays and can fetch more than $1000.