There’s something about the immediate way this song gets going that I’m really drawn to. It hits the ground running and immerses you in this delicious radiant soulful sound; no messing! I also love sunshiny innocence of the melody verses the dubious lyrics that bouncily declare, “I Don’t Know What You Are Full Of, But It Sure Ain’t Love…”
What a shame this duo only released two singles!! Signed to Ron and Sari Bledsoe’s short-lived Memphis label, Active Records, Rubye James and Linda Royston (Sweet & Innocent) joined a roster with a small selection of other groups that included The Epics, First Company, and The Memphis Mustangs.
Perfectly described as an “atmospheric blues, post-Beehive girl group harmony, and Jacksons-inspired kid soul”, the Sweet & Innocent operated out of a storefront on Chelsea Avenue, using nearby Manassas High as a talent pool. Their first 45, Cry Love, was issued in 1972 and was accompanied on the b-side by today’s song (note: an original copy of this record is rather sought after, so if you are ever lucky enough to come across one, keep it and run!!). Express Your Love followed a year later and was to be the last thing they recorded! In 2021, Numero Group reissued, Express Your Love / Cry Love. What ever became of them is a mystery, but such is the case for so many bands like this!…I hope you enjoy!
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