Originally signed to Philly Groove Records via a production contract with Norman Harris, the group came with Harris when he signed onboard the newly formed Salsoul. Most of Harris' work would be issued on the Gold Mind subsidiary of Salsoul - First Choice were no exception. The bulk of the group's offerings came from the stable of Baker/Harris/Young, but other producers and mixers would feature prominently, such as Tee Scott and Tom Moulton (whose mix of "Dr. Love" is the all-time favorite of Salsoul Label head Ken Cayre). "Let No Man Put Asunder" would not reach it's penultimate destination in every urban DJ's front crate until Shep Pettibone re-worked it inthe early 1980's. The group had recorded a Southern Soul styled version of Al Green's "Love and Happiness" for their sole Philly Groove album, where it sat alongside the major hit "Armed and Extremely Dangerous" and the minor hit "Smarty Pants". Salsould would eventually re-mix and re-issue all three tracks in various incarnations, leading to the misconception that they were vintage Salsoul cuts. In fact, they were vintage Baker/Harris/Young productions that preceded Salsoul and were acquire by the label after the fact.
Lead vocalist Rochelle Fleming enjoys a reputation as one of the legendary disco divas, and still lends vocals to the occassional one-off house track, such as Tom De Novy's "Summer Love".
First Choice was an American girl group vocal music trio from Philadelphia. The group produced the disco hits "Armed and Extremely Dangerous", "The Player", "Love Thang", "Let No Man Put Asunder" and "Dr. Love".
Career
Fleming was the main vocalist. The group was originally known as the Debronettes.
Philadelphia DJ Georgie Woods introduced the trio to Norman Harris, guitarist with MFSB, to produce their debut single, "This Is The House Where Love Died". Although it sold poorly, the record led to a recording contract with the Philly Groove record label, and the release of Armed and Extremely Dangerous. Also produced by Harris, the song was a hit first in the UK, where it reached the Top 20 in the UK Singles Chart on Bell Records.
U.S. success followed and the later singles, "Smarty Pants" and "The Player," sold equally well.[citation needed] While producer Harris was associated with numerous hits during the disco boom of the late 1970s, the only later chart entry for First Choice was "Dr. Love," and, in 1984, the group split up.
In 1983, however, the group's 1977 album cut "Let No Man Put Asunder" was remixed by Shep Pettibone and Frankie Knuckles for club play, and became a staple for urban DJs and a classic for listeners. The centerpiece vocals and bass riff of the song were among the most sampled expressions of the emerging Chicago house music scene in the 1980s. Steve "Silk" Hurley used this bass line in his 1987 song "Jack Your Body," which went on to become the first house record to top the UK charts.
In 1987, Fleming re-formed the group with her cousin Laconya Fleming, and Lawrence Cottel, to record Love Itch (Prelude Records). In the same year, a reissue of "Let No Man Put Asunder" was a dancefloor hit in the UK.[citation needed]
Over the years, the group has seen some new success, as many of their songs have been remixed and re-released. Larry Levan remixed its "Double Cross" (Gold Mind, 1979) track, plus Tee Scott's first studio mix was "Love Thang" (1979)). It was also remixed by Tony Humphries in 1993 for the Salsoul remix project, two albums released on Double J Records. First Choice benefitted somewhat when Rhino Records put its Armed and Extremely Dangerous into the Soul Hits of the 70s: Didn't It Blow Your Mind series, and also when the Salsoul catalog was digitally remastered and released in the 1990s.
Fleming has also provided guest vocals for the occasional house music release over the years.
The Player / Let No Man Put Asunder
First Choice Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Remember the good times
Don't you want some more
It's not a perfect love but I'll defend it
'Cause I believe that's what God intended
We got love too good to throw away
It's not over between you and me
It's not over, I don't want to be free
What has been joined by God, by God
Let no man put asunder
Oh, don't throw it away
Don't throw it away
I can't hear those words spoken, understood
Making bonds through love
The times are better good
I'm convinced that what is meant to be will be
Even the stars declare that you belong to me
We got love too good to throw away
It's not over between you and me
It's not over, I don't want to be free
What has been joined by God, by God
Let no man put asunder
Oh, don't throw it away
Don't throw it away
It's not over between you and me
It's not over, I don't want to be free
It's not over between you and me
It's not over, I don't want to be free
(It's not over)
Said I need you and I want you
I got to have you every day in my doggone life
(It's not over)
It's not over, no no no
(It's not over)
(It's not over)
(It's not over)
Said I need you and I want you
I got to have you every day in my doggone life
(It's not over)
It's not over, no no no
(It's not over)
(It's not over)
Baby baby baby, oh
See one thing I know about me and you
That no matter what we go through baby
I know you will be coming back someday
Because I know deep inside you feel the same
Because it's not over
It's not over no no, between you and me
It's not over
Say ooh baby, ooh baby
Come on y'all, come on y'all
You know what I'm saying
Because it's not over
It's not over no no, between you and me
Baby baby baby
It's not over
The lyrics to "The Player / Let No Man Put Asunder" by First Choice delve into the complexities of love, commitment, and the struggle against separation. The opening lines introduce a moment of surprise and emotional turmoil as the singer finds a suitcase at the door, which symbolizes impending departure. The mention of "good times" evokes nostalgia and suggests a deep connection that is worth preserving. The singer pleads for reconciliation and emphasizes that while their love may not be perfect, there is a strong belief that it has divine backing—“what God intended.” This phrasing establishes an underlying theme of destiny and fate, mirroring the notion that love, though challenging, should not be easily dismissed. The singer's insistence that this love is "too good to throw away" speaks to a sense of resilience, deeming their bond valuable enough to endure trials.
As the song progresses, the refrain articulates a yearning for continuity and commitment. The repeated phrase "It's not over between you and me" reinforces the idea that there is still potential for resolution and healing. This declaration conveys both vulnerability and determination, indicating the singer’s refusal to accept the end of a relationship that holds profound significance. The interplay of emotional conflict—between the desire for freedom and the longing to maintain the union—underscores the chorus, blurring the lines between love and the fear of loss. The assertion that love is divinely ordained and should not be cast aside highlights the inner struggle around maintaining connections despite setbacks. This element resonates with listeners who have navigated complex relationships, hinting at a battle between personal desires and the idea of commitment.
The bridge of the song emphasizes a strong sense of mutual belonging and fate. Lines such as “I’m convinced that what is meant to be will be” reflect a belief in inevitability, suggesting that love transcends circumstances. The reference to the stars as signifiers of destiny adds a romantic dimension to their bond, suggesting that external forces align to affirm their connection. This segment, along with the affirmation that their love is “too good to throw away,” reinforces the notion that relationships often encounter turbulence but can be salvaged through understanding and belief in each other. This perspective suggests an inherent optimism, acknowledging imperfections while still holding onto hope for a brighter future.
Towards the conclusion of the lyrics, there’s an acknowledgment of personal need that emphasizes the weight of emotional dependency and attachment. The repeated calls to desire assert that the singer cannot envision life without their partner, culminating in the insistence that “it’s not over.” This refrain echoes the earlier sentiments, reinforcing a circular narrative of continuity amid challenges. The idea that "no matter what we go through" can resonate with anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of love. It exudes a confidence that suggests hope and determination despite uncertainty, encouraging the belief that love can overcome obstacles. By evoking such strong emotions through heartfelt lyrics, the song encapsulates a universal theme of love’s persistence—a powerful reminder of the bonds that endure and the hope that often accompanies the journey of relationships.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm surprised to see your suitcase at the door
I wasn't expecting to find your belongings ready to leave, indicating a sudden change in our relationship.
Remember the good times
Think back on the happy moments we shared together that defined our bond.
Don't you want some more
Isn't there a desire within you to experience more joy and love with me?
It's not a perfect love but I'll defend it
Our love may have flaws, but I am willing to stand up for it and protect what we have.
'Cause I believe that's what God intended
I feel that our relationship has a divine purpose, as if it was meant to be by a higher power.
We got love too good to throw away
The love we share is valuable and worth preserving, regardless of the challenges we face.
It's not over between you and me
Our story isn’t finished; there are more chapters to write in our relationship.
It's not over, I don't want to be free
I desire to remain connected to you and not to separate ourselves from each other.
What has been joined by God, by God
The bond we share, blessed by a higher power, should not be easily broken.
Let no man put asunder
No human authority or issue should come between us and disrupt our union.
Oh, don't throw it away
Please don’t abandon what we have built together.
I can't hear those words spoken, understood
I struggle to comprehend the things said between us if they aren't heartfelt.
Making bonds through love
We create deep connections through the love we share with one another.
The times are better good
Reflecting on our past, we’ve experienced truly wonderful times together.
I'm convinced that what is meant to be will be
I trust that whatever destiny holds for us will unfold in its own time.
Even the stars declare that you belong to me
There are cosmic signs or feelings that suggest our union is destined and profound.
We got love too good to throw away
The strength of our love surpasses challenges; it is too precious to discard.
It's not over between you and me
There is still a continuing connection that needs exploration and nurturing.
It's not over, I don't want to be free
I wish to remain close and committed rather than seeking independence from each other.
It's not over between you and me
Our relationship has not reached its conclusion; it’s ongoing.
It's not over, I don't want to be free
I desire to stay together; the thought of separation is not something I wish for.
(It's not over)
This reiteration emphasizes that our relationship continues and persists.
Said I need you and I want you
I express a deep emotional need and desire for your presence in my life.
I got to have you every day in my doggone life
It’s essential for me to have you by my side on a daily basis, as you are integral to my happiness.
(It's not over)
Reaffirming again that our love story is far from finished.
It's not over, no no no
Rejection of the notion that our relationship has come to an end.
(It's not over)
Reiterating the certainty that our bond continues.
(It's not over)
Restating that our connection remains alive and flourishing.
Said I need you and I want you
Reaffirming my strong emotional attachment and desire to have you in my life.
I got to have you every day in my doggone life
I cannot imagine my life without you; your presence is vital to my wellbeing.
(It's not over)
Another confirmation that our relationship has not ended and continues to grow.
It's not over, no no no
A definitive claim that our love persists despite any challenges faced.
(It's not over)
Reinforcing the idea that our relationship endures.
Baby baby baby, oh
A term of endearment to express affection and connection.
See one thing I know about me and you
I have a strong understanding of our relationship and the bond we share.
That no matter what we go through baby
Regardless of the difficulties we may face, our connection remains firm.
I know you will be coming back someday
I have faith that you will return to our relationship, as it holds significance for both of us.
Because I know deep inside you feel the same
I believe that you share my feelings and longing for our relationship as well.
Because it's not over
Once again affirming that our relationship continues and isn't finished.
It's not over no no, between you and me
Reassuring that our connection remains intact and thriving.
It's not over
A final declaration that emphasizes the ongoing nature of our relationship.
Say ooh baby, ooh baby
An affectionate plea for emotional closeness and reaffirmation of love.
Come on y'all, come on y'all
An invitation to others to join in understanding and supporting our feelings.
You know what I'm saying
Encouraging others to recognize and validate the emotions shared in our relationship.
Because it's not over
Reiterating that our love story is still in progress and far from conclusion.
It's not over no no, between you and me
Reaffirming the resilience of our bond and our commitment to each other.
Baby baby baby
Restating my affection and emotional connection to you in a loving manner.
It's not over
A final assurance that our relationship is ongoing and deserving of investment.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Bruce Gray, Bruce Hawes
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@thomasbrown3356
Idk the East Coast history with this record, but here in Chicago, it's the single most important, Disco recording in the History of House music-at it's very foundation. Not just sampling bits and pieces- the entire record. For DJs and party people , the song was a very instrumental blueprint. You had to have been there and lived thru it, to relate.
@dolphus32
This song is the anthem of “House music.”I said that back in 84. A Friday night at 1015 N. Halsted or a Saturday night at the underground in the fall of 84, was incomplete if you didn’t hear this or I can’t turn around, Melodies, or I’m looking for loving…!
@djpopcorn
@@dolphus32Love Cant turn around by Daryl Pandy or Issac Hayes?
@MissZeeZee
I dated a guy from Chicago in the 90s. Those were his exact words.
@oscarmason3252
You are so right, I remember jamming to this during those house music days, wbmx hot mix days, I just never knew the artist until recently, this is still a cut fr
@kimjackson3851
@@dolphus32 1:26
@luckytaco97
Wow. Sample galore.....so many parts have been used in both house & drum n bass.
@markoruzicic
musicgeoman so true, im surprised really... just came across this song and I cant believe it.. its like I heard it milion times before.. :)
@markoruzicic
marko mixnot even footwork/juke i think DJ Rashad sampled "everyday of my life"
@Telekineticfish
If you like garage Y U QT just put out a track sampling this. U BELONG 2 ME