This Old Heart Of Mine by the Isley Brothers

A 1966 hit for the Isley Brothers, who have the distinction of having a charted single in every decade since 1959. “This old heart of mine (is weak for you)” was written by Motown’s Holland’ and Lamont Dozier and was originally intended for the Supremes.

They were actually brothers – Lead singer Ronald and his older siblings, O’Kelly and Rudolph. With strong roots in the gospel tradition, they had a powerful fire and brimstone presentation when on stage. They recorded hits on a variety of labels including Motown – notably their 1964 smash for United Artists “Whose That Lady”. Interestingly, whilst at Atlantic, some of their productions featured the (then) little-known Jimmy Hendrix.

In the UK, in 1967, they had another big hit with “Behind a Painted Smile”. Although successful with Motown, they formed their own label (T-Neck) and in 1969 had their first million-seller with “It’s Your Thing”. This also saw the introduction of a further two Isley brothers, Ernie and Marvin – and the group remained a success throughout the 70s as soul icons.

Sample “This Old Heart Of Mine” on Motown 50 here:

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