Source Material: The Natural Four – “Try Love Again”

The Natural Four were a soul group from Oakland, California that was formed in 1967.  The Natural Four was comprised of: lead singer Chris James, Allen Richardson, John January, and Al Bowden.  In 1969, they released their debut single, “I Thought You Were Mine” on Boola Boola Records.  It was a hit on the West Coast, and their music caught the attention of ABC records.  Shortly after, the label signed The Natural Four; they recorded one album, and four singles.  Unfortunately, by 1971, they were released from their contract after failing to find much success.

Later that year, they released “Give A Little Love” on Chess Records, but after that song also failed to make a mark, Chris James replaced the entire group.  The new lineup was comprised of: Chris James, Darryl Cannady, Steve Striplin, and Delmos Whitley.   The new lineup featured Delmos Whitley as the lead singer, and in 1972, they signed to Curtis Mayfield’s Curtom Records.   One year later, they released “Can This Be Real/”Try Love Again.” Both songs were minor hits, but “Can This Be Real” was more successful.  “Try Love Again” is my favorite, and I think it’s a great example of their potential.

The Natural Four – “Try Love Again”