The Process of re-recording Minnie Riperton’s album ‘Love Lives Forever’

In 1979 we lost one of the greatest vocalists of our time, Minnie Riperton, best known for her hit single ‘Lovin’ You’ and many more. In 1977 I had the pleasure to co-write her very last record single ‘Here We Go’, co-written with Minnie and her husband music producer Richard Rudolph. I worked as guitarist for Minnie on live concert shows in 1978, where we were the opening act for George Benson. From 1977 ~ 1979 I recorded for Minnie as session guitarist.

‘Here We Go’ was originally recorded for her Epic Record deal, which was never released. One year after her passing, Capitol Records obtained the rights to her vocals from the original Epic Record recording (only her vocals – nothing else). This case study examines the process, from the technical aspects being very advanced for its time, on through to some interesting copyright issues.

The re-recording process of ‘Love Lives Forever’ is a unique case study as it incorporates artistic challenge, entrepreneurial management, marketing, technical innovation, business law and ethics, including copyright law and the art of negotiation. It’s an example of commercial success by increasing market appeal with the incorporation of other vocal artists performing duets with the deceased artist, therefore producing a stronger and wider audience, as well as giving a long-tail effect and financial return with the copyrights contained on the record release.

In 1980, ‘Here We Go’ reached Billboards #14 R&B chart position.

The Process of re-recording Minnie Riperton’s album ‘Love Lives Forever’

By Art Phillips (2011)

Audio Examples in Case Study

By Art Phillips (2011)