Move On Up
🎵 Genre: R&B | 🎤 Recording: Studio
Groove, Uplift, and Progressive Soul Power
“Move On Up,” released on Curtis Mayfield’s 1970 self-titled debut album Curtis, is an explosive, life-affirming anthem of pure soul and optimism. This track serves as an urgent call to action, encouraging the listener to overcome adversity and strive for their highest potential. It instantly became a signature song for Mayfield and remains one of the most sampled and covered tracks in soul history.
Musically, the song is a masterclass in dynamic rhythm and arrangement. It is built around Mayfield’s distinctive, syncopated rhythm guitar work—a core element of his unique sound—which drives the song’s relentless, bustling energy. This technique is often credited to his use of the specific Black Key Tuning (F♯–A♯–C♯–F♯–A♯–F♯), which allows him to achieve that shimmering, dense rhythmic texture.
The production features a stunningly dramatic crescendo, with a powerful brass arrangement and an incredible, nearly six-minute instrumental breakdown. This extended jam, featuring soaring horns and propulsive conga drumming, gives the track a joyous, psychedelic-funk feel, firmly cementing its place as a cornerstone of early 1970s progressive soul. This orchestral ambition contrasts with the tighter, more focused arrangement of classics like “Pusherman.”
This masterful blend of message and music deeply influenced contemporary R&B, particularly the work of artists like Prince, who utilized dense vocal and instrumental layering to create their own ambitious soundscapes. “Move on Up,” along with earlier Impressions anthems like “Keep On Pushing,” defines Mayfield’s unparalleled gift for delivering uplifting social commentary with an irresistible groove.
Recording Details
| Song Title | Move on Up |
|---|---|
| Guitarist | Curtis Mayfield |
| Band | Curtis Mayfield's Studio Band (feat. brass and string arrangements) |
| Lineup | Curtis Mayfield (vocals, guitar), Joseph "Lucky" Scott (bass), Donald Simmons (drums), Henry Gibson (congas), Orchestra/Horns |
| Event | Studio Recording (Single & Album Release) |
| Album/Release | Curtis |
| Recording Studio | RCA Studios |
| Record Label | Curtom Records (Original Release) |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Date | November 19, 1970 |
💬 What defines this progressive soul anthem?
“Move On Up” is built on explosive momentum. Which element best carries the song’s relentless energy: Mayfield’s signature, syncopated rhythm guitar, or the powerful, dramatic crescendo delivered by the soaring brass and extended instrumental breakdown? Drop your thoughts below and join the conversation.