From Soul Singer to Hajji

Hajji can sing too!

(Hajji) Rodger Collins new CD, Rodger Collins: Through My Eyes, is a breath of fresh air. Rodger Collins as a funky legendary soul singer once topped the Rolling Stones, Otis Redding and James Brown on Hot Music Playlists in the number one spot with "She's Looking Good" in 1967. "She's Looking Good" was covered by greats such as Wilson Pickett, and Howlin' Wolf. Collins also released the singles "Get Away From Me", and "Direct Me". Amazingly even today his 1970's regional fave "Foxy Girls In Oakland" once again resonates with new contemporary audiences of college listeners. It's no wonder Collins lit up radio station request lines back in the day with these oldies-but-goodies hits and still does now.

Through his friendship with Joe Tex, Yusuf Hazziez, Rodger became acquainted with Islam. In 1978 heavy weight boxing champion Muhammad Ali's manager (Jaabir Muhammad) sponsored Rodger to make the Hajj, pilgrimage to Mecca. Rodger again made the Hajj in 1995. Known as Hajji Sabrie he continued with his musical writing and production career writing for legendary artists some of whom include Charles Brown, Sugar Pie DeSanto, and Buddy Ace, just to name a few.

Collins was signed with the Galaxy/Fantasy label, and played the circuit through the early 1970's, sharing bills with notable acts like Joe Tex, Wilson Pickett and Jackie Wilson, just to name a few. He shared the bill with Elvis, Ike & Tina Turner and Redd Foxx at the Hilton International Hotel in Las Vegas. In the late 70's he retired from live performances.

Since the early 1980's Collins has spent his time in the studio and writing for other artists with the exception of the 1987 single 12" titled: "Welfare, I'm Leaving You" released on the Garden Tree Music indie label. Collins has on occasion sat in with various friends wowing audiences with his charisma and diverse talent. He performed the track, "Get Me To The Bridge" in the movie Black Girl. "She's Looking Good", which Collins wrote, was performed by Jack Mack and the Heart Attack in the teen flick "Tuff Turf."

The release of Rodger Collins: Through My Eyes, on the Garden Tree Media label (September 2008) long awaited by Collins' fans has received strong reviews and is creating request-line magic once again. In this release Collins once again immerses his audience in the unique Rodger Collins genre the signature of his live performance.

Beginning with "In My Wildest Dream" Collins revisits his Texas country roots. The track has yodeling, funk, novelty rap and hip-hop sprinkled with soulful Latin shrills in it coupled with many Rodger Collins' hallmark sound effects. There is history in it mixed with current ideas showcasing the Collins performance genre. And listen to the touching performance Collins gives on "Thank You Baby", with soulful RESPECT for women. With "The Driven 2 Step (featuring Mystery Train)" The Grateful Dead and Creedence Clearwater Revival fans along with all music lovers will be especially delighted with what Collins describes as his sentimental track. Collins is at his best in this once in a lifetime session with friends and sidemen the late Merl Saunders, the late Jerry Garcia from The Grateful Dead and the late Tom Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival. The Collins genre and strong vocal delivery make the track appeal to country, rock, and blues audiences. You must listen to Collins soulful rendition of "Plaything" (a no nonsense moral stand on love and relationships) that captures the emotions of anyone who has ever been in that situation.

"Family Situation" is a timely beautiful ballad relating the story of a father who lost his children to the streets. This new approach is for now and touches all people. It is so heartfelt and original until everyone (literally everyone) can identify with it. "She's Looking Good (Fresh)(Update)" is a contemporary take on the oldie classic. The killer track is an extreme make over of the sixties hit. Fans are treated to the many different tones of Rodger's voice on this fresh updated version. For a special treat for blues lovers check out "Nailed to the Floor," "Making Up Lost Time," and "Hangin In There" (Rodger can nail the blues!)

A novelty take on the contemporary issue of crime, highlighting the fear of being locked up in your own home because of burglars is soulfully lamented by Collins' track "Locked Up". Both the lyrics and vocal delivery by Collins establishes a brand new musical genre approaching everyday life, no wonder it has enjoyed phenomenal success in the digital download services. "Take Care of Business"--a lover's song for all seasons describes this track. The vocal is so touching it can't help but hit and you can mark this one down for weddings and other special occasions. New genre, new sound, great song, and great vocal equals hit.

These are some of the highlighted tracks from Rodger Collins: Through My Eyes. This CD shares with the listener Collins' imagination and variety of musical performance. Visit: http://www.rodgercollins.com

Contact: BJ White Garden Tree Media 4900 Shattuck Avenue, #3612 Oakland, CA 94609
Email: gardentreemedia@comcast.net 510-658-4696