Love Can’t Turn Around is a classic release in the history of house music and one of the defining moments in the Chicago house scene
Produced in 1986 with Farley ‘Jackmaster’ Funk and Jessie Saunders, the song appears on legendary labels such as : DJ International, London Records, FFRR , House Records, Trax Records. The release is based on Isaac Hayes ‘s I Can’t Turn Around. The « end version » of this record contains only the trumpet melody (which was transformed into a bassline) of the original. The idea to make this track is credited to Steve ‘Silk’ Hurley. The B side offers another anthem, Housenation written by Robert Smith. Whether you’re a fan of house music, dance music in general, or just great groove-based tracks, this EP is an essential part of any collection. The thing is, it is totaly out of time, people who have never listened to this track yet, along side of those who loves it, will always rock the dancefloor under Pandy’s incredible voice range. Each Time I play this track, the audience go crazy, incredible energy and warmness, simply as that.
Few words about the record
Farley « Jackmaster » Funk’s Love Can’t Turn Around is a seminal release that helped define the sound of Chicago house music in the mid-1980s. Originally released in 1986, this EP has stood the test of time, largely due to its infectious energy and undeniable groove. While it’s often categorized as a classic in the realm of house music, its influence extends far beyond the confines of the genre, affecting pop, dance, and even early hip-hop tracks. The title track is an absolute anthem. Built around a deep, soulful bassline and infectious piano stabs, Love Can’t Turn Around exudes all the quintessential elements of early Chicago house: raw, relentless rhythm, a four-on-the-floor kick, and samples that are expertly woven into the track’s fabric. The real standout, however, is the vocal performance. It’s upbeat and joyous, with a powerful message of love and resilience that resonates even today.
Farley enlisted the legendary Daryl Pandy to provide the impassioned vocals, and Pandy’s delivery gives the track an emotional depth that elevates it beyond just a club banger. While house music has evolved tremendously since the release of this EP, Love Can’t Turn Around remains a pillar of the genre’s early days. It’s a joyful, irresistible record that will always hold a special place in the hearts of dance music lovers. Its mixture of soul, groove, and innovation has made it an enduring classic, not just for house heads but for anyone who appreciates the roots of modern dance music. The upbeat nature of the track, combined with its irresistible hook, made it a dancefloor mainstay and a perfect example of how Chicago house could fuse soul, disco, and emerging electronic sounds. The raw, yet polished production captures the energy of the Windy City dancefloors in the mid-80s, and it remains as much of a crowd-pleaser now as it did back in its prime.
