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US soul-funk singer and percussionist Jamo Thomas recorded for several different record labels between 1965 and 1976. He sometimes appeared with backing musicians such as the Party Brothers Orchestra and is probably best known for his singles Bahama Mama and his cover version of I Spy (For the FBI).
After a spell as a percussionist with the Pennsylvania-based Bobby Peterson Quintet in the late 1950’s, Thomas relocated to Chicago in the early 1960’s where he recorded his debut single, Stop the Baby” in 1965. His next recording, I Spy (For the FBI), was released on the small Thomas label (owned by Eddie Thomas) and peaked at #98 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1966. Three years later it was re-issued in the UK on Polydor when it reached #44 in the UK Singles Chart. These tracks sadly proved to be his only appearance in either chart even though Thomas continued to record well into the 70’s, after which he continued to arrange music and was later credited as an arranger for an Ella Washington gospel album.
Must I Holler b/w I’ll Be Your Fool was Jamo Thomas’ debut single released in 1966 on Chess Records. It’s a lot more edgy than his other recordings which is probably why I prefer it. His smooth vocals are real pleasing to the ear and the bluesy undertones and funky horn section takes it beyond just a straight soul number! Check it out above.
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