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| Joe Thomas |
| Born June 16, 1933, Joe Thomas has had a rewarding disco career. Besides being an acomplished flautist and saxophonist, he's an incredible writer as well. Apart from those facts it seems that there is virtually no information on Mr. Thomas available. Not to be confused with jazz musician Joe Thomas who was born in 1909, our Joe Thomas first comes into the public eye in 1975 with his disco/jazz instrumental "Masada" from the album of the same name. The album also featured a heavy version of the standard "Poinciana." In 1976 he followed with 'Feelin's From Within" on the Groove Merchant label. The album featured his first 12" single "Funky Fever." The first pressings were on Groove Merchant but as the song gained popularity later copies were pressed on the yellow T.K. label. The flip side was also a club favorite, "Polarizer." His next two album releases, "In The Wind" (1977) and "Plato's Retreat" (1978) spawned his two most popular 12" singles. The first was a stunning re-working of the Dolly Parton penned "Two Doors Down" which featured his smooth flute work. While the second, "Plato's Retreat," was an ode about the infamous straight bathhouse in New York city. Both remain cult classics and hard to find. 1979's release was "Make Your Move." The 12" single of the title track featured the vocals of Pleasure Palace and would be his last hit. The album was produced by Sonny Lester and Lance Quinn, arrangements were by Brad Baker. Baker was Joe's main songwriting partner. One last album, "Flash," was released in 1980. After that Joe seems to have dropped from sight. There is a credit listing for a Joe Thomas as producer on Big John Greer's 1992 release and Dr. Feelgood's 1993 album, but we can't be sure it's our Joe Thomas. If anyone has any additional information on Joe Thomas contact us so that we may honor and preserve his disco legacy. |
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