A Piece of the Action is a soundtrack album by American rhythm and blues and gospel singer Mavis Staples, from the 1977 film of the same name. It was released on October 10, 1977, by Curtom Records.
Critical reception In the October 22, 1977 issue, Billboard reviewed the album: "Staples soulfully interprets the musical score, written and produced by Curtis Mayfield, of the flick starring Sidney Poitier, Bill Cosby and James Earl Jones. Staples and Mayfield collaborated previously on "Let's Do It Again", although then supported by her singing sisters. Mayfield's funky rhythms and evocative lyrics are among the composer's better recent efforts. While Staples' throaty vocals remain passionate, Mayfield's backup session men supply the funk. Best cuts: "Chocolate City", "A Piece of the Action", "'Til Blossoms Bloom" and "Koochie, Koochie, Koochie".
Track listing
Personnel Adapted from the album liner notes. Roger Anfinsen - engineer Gil Askey - strings and horn arrangements Fred Breitberg - engineer Sol Bobrov - string and horn contractor Mattie Butler - background vocals Tony D'Orio - cover portrait Marc Hauser - cover portrait Denese Heard - background vocals Henry Hicks Jr. - background vocals Ricki Linton - background vocals Curtis Mayfield - producer, rhythm arrangements Rich Tufo - keyboards, strings and horn arrangements Jim Schubert - art direction and design Alfonso Surrett - background vocals Keni Burke - bass Joseph "Lucky" Scott - bass Donelle Hagan - drums Quinton Joseph - drums Henry Gibson - congas, percussion Floyd Morris - keyboards, synthesizers Curtis Mayfield, Gary Thompson - guitars
References