An intimate introduction to his pioneering funky sound.

International Anthem is releasing a new compilation of Charles Stepney’s home recordings, called Step on Step, this September.

Listen next: Exploring the sounds of Charles Stepney, with Tony Minvielle

A producer, multi-instrumentalist, composer and writer, Stepney is best known for his work helping to shape the sounds of artists including Earth, Wind & Fire, Minnie Riperton, Muddy Waters, and The Emotions.

He was also an influential force shaping the sounds of blues and r’n’b label Chess Records.

Stepney recorded the tracks on Step on Step across the late ’60s to early ’70s, in the basement of his home on the Southside of Chicago.

Step on Step follows International Anthem’s release of Daniel Villarreal’s Panamá 77 album.

Pre-order Step on Step here in advance of its 9th September release; check out the artwork and tracklist below.

Tracklist:

2. Gimme Some Sugar

3. Daddy’s Diddies

4. Gotta Dig It To Dig It

5. No Credit For This

6. Roadtrip

7. On Your Face

8. That’s The Way Of The World

9. Imagination

10. In The Basement

11. Business

12. Look B4U Leap

13. Around The House

14. Funky Sci Fi

15. Mini Mugg

16. Chicago Independent

17. Surround Stereo

18. Black Gold

19. Denim Groove

20. Notes From Dad

21. Rubie & Charles

22. Greatness

23. Step on Step