Recently, Patti Labelle, like many other music legends, has drawn inspiration from the hit song “Boots On Thach On the Boots”, performed by Southern Soul Soul Superstar 803 Fresh, who is from Wagener from SC
The song’s success can be attributed to the innovative work of Terrance “T Da Wizard” Thompson, another South Carolina native from Blackville. It is worth noting that many of Labelle's famous tracks were produced by the talented James “Budd” Ellison (my mother cousin), who has a close connection with Salley, South Carolina and remains an unsung hero in the music industry.
James “Budd” Ellison was born on July 11, 1952 in Brooklyn, New York. His father, James Ellison, was praised from Sawyerdale and spent his youth on the family property of Ellison Estates in the suburbs of Salley. Originally from North Carolina, his mother, Irene Walker Ellison, whose father performed in various African-American gospel music groups in Brooklyn, introduced Bud and his cousin Tommy Ellison, who later became a well-known gospel music figure and mentor – involving a rich Gospel Music tradition.
James “Budd” Ellison
In his early adulthood, Budd moved to Philadelphia, where he began working with Labelle in 1975. He played a key role in his evolution as a solo artist, contributing to her self-proclaimed debut album released in 1978.
The album features the hit single “Joy to Your Love,” which is popular in the R&B circle, while the dance track “Dan Swit Me” has attracted attention in the club. One of the outstanding songs on the album is Heardfelt Ballad, co-written by Labelle, Budd and Armstead Edwards, who originally devoted himself to Labelle’s son Zuri, who now manages his career.