Exploring underground classics of deep and soulful house music.
Introduction
“Carry On” by Todd Terry is a quintessential house track that exemplifies the vibrant and evolving nature of the genre in the early 1990s. Released in 1993, this gospel infused track remains an example of Todd Terry’s status as one of the best producers in the genre.
Release Details
“Carry On” was released on June 28, 1993, under the RCA label (Catalog number: 74321 15370 2). This track was part of a double A-side release, paired with another notable track, “Runaround”.
Remixes and Versions
The song “Carry On” saw several remix versions, contributing to its widespread acclaim. Notable remixes include:
- Alternate Dance Mix: Remixed by Masters At Work, a prominent duo in the house music scene.
- Tee’s Freeze: Remixed by Todd Terry himself, adding his distinctive touch to the track.
- Todd’s Inhouse Dub: Another remix by Todd Terry, emphasizing deeper house elements
- Tee’s Crazy Mix: A remix by Todd Terry, also known as Tee’s Crazy Mix, which was featured in the 1997 re-release of the track. This version extends the song to over nine minutes, delivering an immersive house music experience – Discogs – Discogs – Discogs. This one remains one of my favourites
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Vocalist Information
“Carry On” features powerful vocals by Martha Wash, a legendary figure in the disco, house and dance music world. Martha Wash’s vocal performance in “Carry On” is a significant factor in the track’s enduring popularity and appeal on the dance floor.
For me, this song was one of those beautiful moments of discovery. I heard it on a DJ’s mix CD given to me by a friend and was completely blown away by its power.
My favourite remix is the Tee’s Crazy Mix – I think it’s better than the original and it’s got the heavy bass and power to match Martha’s outstanding vocals. You can see why Todd Terry’s nickname was ‘Todd The God Terry’.
The track is peppered with the vocal samples of ‘Come on, come on’ and ‘Touch me’ from Black Box’s 1990 hit ‘I Don’t Know Anybody Else’ – which ironically are Martha’s vocals anyway.
I’ve never heard this track live on the dancefloor, but damn if I did you can bet I would be sweating!
Overall I would say this track is a quintessential 90s groove with beautifully comforting lyrics and familiar samples. One of my faves!
References
Martha Wash – Runaround + Carry On (The Todd Terry Club Remixes) (1993, Vinyl) – Discogs
What are your thoughts? Let me know over on Instagram! @4theloveofhousemusic
