Garfield Fleming: the Incredible Fate of a Soul Legend
Garfield Fleming is far more than a Philadelphia soul legend—he’s a true musical phoenix!
The key takeaway: Garfield Fleming is far more than a Philadelphia soul legend—he’s a true musical phoenix!
Known for his cult 1981 hit “Please Don’t Send Me Away,” the artist blew the world away with a viral buzz that started in the flea markets of Saint‑Ouen.
It’s shining proof that raw emotion and authentic talent can cross decades and still strike straight to the heart.
Do you really think the magic of soul died with the 1980s?
Garfield Fleming’s incredible journey is here to prove you wrong—and to give you a serious musical slap in the face while he’s at it.
I’m taking you on a ride to discover how this veteran rode an unexpected wave of hype to climb back to the top and deliver a groove lesson you won’t forget.
Garfield Fleming: The Roots of a Philadelphia Soul Legend
The sound of Philly in his blood
To really get who Garfield Fleming is, you first have to understand Philadelphia.
This city isn’t just a backdrop for him—it’s a central character, the very engine of his musical story.
It was the golden age of the “Philly Sound.” Born on May 30, 1953, Garfield grew up right in the middle of that sonic revolution, breathing in rich harmonies and silky productions every day, the kind that defined the era.
With a career marked by remarkable successes both as a solo artist and as a member of a legendary group, Fleming embodies the very essence of Philadelphia’s soul tradition, personifying the vocal passion and musical authenticity that define this timeless genre.
In short, this unique environment literally forged his DNA as a soul artist.
First Steps Before the Glory
Like many kids in the neighborhood, Garfield Fleming started singing very early, cut his teeth in local bands, and sharpened his voice night after night in the anonymity of the city’s clubs.
It was this intense, formative period that proved absolutely decisive for the rest of his career.
From the outset, Fleming developed a deep passion for musical expression, writing songs that showcased a powerful, emotional soul voice soon compared to legends like David Ruffin and Bobby Womack.
This creative, musical environment in Philadelphia helped shape his vocal style and gave him a distinct identity in the city’s soul and funk scene.
He cut his teeth in local bands, sharpening his voice night after night in the anonymity of the city’s clubs.
It was this intense period of training that proved absolutely decisive for the rest of his career.
Garfield Fleming Ruffin grew up in the “City of Brotherly Love” (Philadelphia) during a pivotal era for American soul music.
From a very young age he developed a passion for musical expression, starting out as a songwriter and solo artist.
Fleming wrote songs that showcased his remarkable vocal ability, quickly standing out thanks to a deep, emotional soul voice that would later be compared to legends like David Ruffin and Bobby Womack.
His father, Lon, was also involved in the music world, even though the family path led his career in a different direction.
That creative musical environment undoubtedly influenced the young Garfield, pushing him to refine his vocal talents and forge a distinct musical identity within Philadelphia’s soul and funk scene.
His ambition and burning passion already drove him to stand out from the crowd and reach for something bigger.
The Influence of the Soul Giants
Growing up in Philly meant living surrounded by real‑life legends on every corner.
Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, true pillars of the genre in the city.
The O’Jays, whose rhythmic influence is undeniable on the young artist.
Jerry Butler, an absolute reference of class and vocal technique for him.
These artists were not just distant idols, but living proof that success was within reach.
It was in this electrifying environment that he developed his own vocal signature—unique and powerful.
Raw talent on the verge of exploding
The late 1970s marks a major turning point for Fleming.
He is no longer just a beginner, but he is not yet the star we know today.
Yet his talent is already recognized by insiders in the scene.
His powerful, emotional voice can no longer be ignored, echoing the greats who came before him.
Everything is finally in place for the big leap—there’s only one thing missing: the track that will make him explode.
1981, the year of his big breakthrough with “Please Don’t Send Me Away”
After years of honing his craft, the early 1980s mark a radical turning point.
A single song is about to change everything.
The birth of a timeless anthem
We’re in 1981.
Disco is starting to tire seriously, and soul is desperately searching for a new breath to survive the incoming decade.
It is precisely in this context that Garfield Fleming arrives with “Please Don’t Send Me Away.”
This track is not just a simple song—it’s a poignant soul ballad.
It’s carried by a voice that swings beautifully between raw power and total vulnerability.
The raw emotion radiating from it hits you instantly, a genuine cry from the heart.
The Solo Era: International Success in the 1980s
Garfield Fleming’s first major breakthrough as a solo artist comes in 1981 with the release of his single “Please Don’t Send Me Away” (also known as “Don’t Send Me Away”) on Becket Records.
Produced by David Morris Jr. and Roger Meltzer, the track turns out to be a masterful blend of soul and dance, establishing Fleming as an essential figure on the soul scene.
The single is issued in both 7‑inch and 12‑inch formats, allowing the record to circulate in clubs and on radio stations around the world.
“Please Don’t Send Me Away” quickly becomes a dance‑floor classic, particularly beloved in the UK and France, and laying the groundwork for a loyal, international fanbase that follows Fleming from this early era.
The song, with its rich soul arrangements and Fleming’s deeply emotional, passionate voice, keeps its magnetic appeal and continues to be played worldwide decades after its original release.
In 1984, Fleming carries this momentum as a solo artist with a second single, “Let’s Turn in Early,” released on Gimme Five Records.
Written and produced by David Morris and Roger Carl Meltzer, the track was recorded at Music City in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
Though less famous than his first hit, this release highlights Fleming’s versatility and his ability to craft authentic, captivating soul music.
Throughout the remainder of the 1980s, Garfield Fleming builds a successful solo career, performing as a support act for some of the biggest stars in soul, including Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, the Isley Brothers, and the legendary Jerry Butler.
His stage presence, combined with his distinctive voice and natural charisma, makes him a highly respected and sought‑after performer on the international soul circuit.
Becket Records and the Impact of the Single
We should salute the work of Becket Records, a key player in the success of this legendary record.
Over time, this vinyl has become an absolute cult object for collectors and seasoned modern‑soul heads.
It’s a sought‑after centerpiece record that everyone is chasing.
A closer look at a musical plea
Let’s dwell for a moment on the lyrics of “Please Don’t Send Me Away.”
They tackle the universal and painful theme of the fear of abandonment and romantic despair.
This is much more than just a set of words; it’s a plea, a prayer.
But what really strikes you is Fleming’s interpretation.
His vocal performance literally transcends the lyrics, making them visceral and incredibly convincing.
It’s this disarmingly sincere delivery that hit listeners right in the heart—and that still resonates strongly today.
“You Got Dat Right”: The High‑Energy B‑Side with Serious Punch
Don’t make the mistake of overlooking the B‑side. “You Got Dat Right” stands as the perfect counterweight to the A‑side, proving that the record is strong on both sides.
Here, we discover a much funkier, more upbeat and optimistic track.
It highlights the artist’s versatility, showing he can effortlessly shift from a heart‑wrenching ballad to a contagious groove.
To fully feel this track, just hit play and let it move you. 🎧
The adventure with The Delfonics: far more than a brief stopover
Joining a soul institution
We’re not talking about some local neighborhood group, but The Delfonics, a true Philadelphia institution.
The beating heart of the “Philly Soul” sound, a legend respected by every groove‑loving music fan.
For Garfield Fleming, stepping into this lineup was no coincidence.
It was the ultimate proof that his voice belonged among the greats, a rare validation from his peers that firmly placed him in the royal family of soul.
His role within the group
He wasn’t there just to fill the background in the studio, but to command the stage in front of demanding crowds.
It was on stage, throughout their many tours in the 1980s and 1990s, that he truly shone, bringing raw energy to the group’s live performances.
Just imagine the kind of experience he gathered?
Sharing the stage with William Hart is nothing short of a masterclass in excellence.
It allowed him to master every detail of the craft at the highest level and to build a solid reputation in front of a much wider audience.
Joining The Delfonics: Two Decades of Legendary Tours
At the start of the 1990s, a pivotal moment arrives in Garfield Fleming’s career.
The Delfonics, a Grammy‑Award‑winning soul/R&B group from Philadelphia famous for their 1960s and 1970s hits such as “La La (Means I Love You)” and “Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time),” invite Fleming to join them as their baritone and background vocalist.
This collaboration marks the beginning of an extraordinary musical partnership that will last for over 25 years.
Alongside the group’s founder, William “Poogie” Hart, Fleming brings his distinctive voice and substantial stage presence to the legendary lineup.
Throughout those 25 years of touring with The Delfonics, Fleming remains an essential force in keeping classic Philadelphia soul alive, preserving the group’s legacy for new generations.
His presence in the band also allows him to perform in prestigious concert halls and in front of global audiences, solidifying his status as a top‑tier soul musician.
William Hart, the founding frontman of The Delfonics, passed away in July 2022, marking the end of a significant era.
Even after the group’s regular touring slowed down, the legacy of this collaboration remains deep and lasting, with Fleming having helped keep one of the most important branches of the African‑American soul tradition alive.
A legacy shared with the greatest
Don’t see this as just another dusty line on a résumé—this is so much more than that.
It’s a direct, living connection to the golden age of soul music, a source of enormous pride for any artist of his caliber.
This affiliation places him in a prestigious lineage that true purists love to quote.
Moreover, his connections with The Delfonics are often mentioned by discerning DJs as an absolute seal of quality, something that real connoisseurs deeply respect.
After The Delfonics and the solo path
All of that experience clearly boosted his confidence for what came next.
He was finally ready to spread his own wings and impose his unique style on the world, with no hesitations at all.
It was this very springboard that made the 1981 miracle possible: the release of “Please Don’t Send Me Away.”
His time with The Delfonics gave him the credibility and the visibility needed for that track to become a timeless classic.
The unexpected rebirth: from YouTube to the Saint‑Ouen flea market
You’d never guess how a 1981 classic resurfaced and turned into a viral phenomenon.
It’s a raw scene: an improvised performance, shot on the fly, years after the song’s original release.
This viral clip literally exploded on YouTube, catching everyone completely off guard.
The result?
Garfield Fleming saw his masterpiece “Please Don’t Send Me Away” discovered by a generation that wasn’t even born when the track first came out.
A spontaneous virality that proves true soul never really dies.
The YouTube miracle: one video, a global buzz
It all happens in the most improbable setting: the stall of record‑dealer “Momo des Puces” at Porte de Clignancourt.
It’s a cult spot for Parisian diggers, a vinyl‑loving Aladdin’s cave.
And yet, Garfield didn’t end up there by chance.
It was the work of Sofiane, aka Funk Nord, a passionate activist who had organized his visit for a concert in Douai.
The magic kicked in just after that show, capturing that suspended moment right in the middle of the record racks.
The power of authenticity
Why did everyone keep sharing that video?
The answer is simple: the total absence of artifice.
The emotion in Fleming’s voice remained intact, decades later, without autotune or modern production.
It’s a slap in the face that reminds us that real talent doesn’t age—it’s visceral.
This resurgence proves one thing: a great song, sung from the heart, can cross eras and technologies to reach people, no matter where or when they hear it.
A new boost for his career
That buzz was not just a fleeting digital spark.
It literally rebooted the machine, reigniting interest in his music and his solo career.
Suddenly, new doors opened: concert dates arrived and long‑overdue, massive recognition followed, especially across Europe and in France.
A well‑deserved second wind in his artistic life.
If you’re ready to feel these gems, just hit play.
A career that spans the decades: the artist today
Far from coasting on this wave of renewed popularity, Garfield Fleming has proven that he is not the man of a single hit, nor of a single era.
“Flemingfire: Time to Know Me”: his comeback in the studio
In 2017, the artist dropped “Flemingfire: Time to Know Me.”
This is not just another record—it’s a statement.
He’s saying to us, loud and clear: “I’m still here, and I still have things to say.” It’s a real punch in the chest.
The album blends delicious classic soul with subtle modern touches.
He’s managed to evolve his sound without ever betraying his soul roots.
It’s fresh, it’s authentic—in short, it’s pure Garfield.
From soul to country: the surprise “Tennessee Whiskey”
In 2024, he flips everyone’s expectations with a cover of “Tennessee Whiskey.”
Taking on this sacred country‑soul monster, famously popularized by Chris Stapleton?
You had to have serious guts.
And guess what?
He nailed it.
His version is just insane. He reclaims the song and pours his own soul into it, proving that great music knows no borders.
It’s the mark of a true master interpreter who turns everything he touches into gold. Frisson guaranteed.
A remarkable artistic longevity
What commands respect is his ability to stay relevant across the decades.
A genuine musical chameleon.
The 1980s: the explosion with his cult single “Please Don’t Send Me Away.”
The 2010s: his viral rebirth on YouTube and the deep connection with the French‑speaking public.
The 2020s: sustained creativity with new releases like the album “Flemingfire” and the single “Tennessee Whiskey.”
The stage, his true kingdom
But let’s be honest, even with these studio outputs, it’s on stage that Garfield Fleming shines the brightest.
That’s where the real magic happens.
He still tours regularly, notably with the outfit “That Motown Band,” bringing his legendary voice to audiences worldwide.
Live performance remains his favorite playground, where he shares his energy and his love for music most directly.
To never miss the best sound: 🎧 https://radiofunk.radio.
An unknown side of the artist
We know the soul voice, the legendary groove—but did you know Garfield Fleming hides a completely unexpected talent?
Far from the stage, the man behind the microphone is also a skilled furniture maker.
This is exactly the kind of detail that changes everything.
I once read somewhere: “Unique furniture creator in the world!!”
No less.
That’s the kind of line that immediately sparks curiosity, right?
This is far from just a time‑killing hobby.
It’s a surprising, little‑known extension of his artistic personality.
The art of shaping matter
At its core, the process is the same.
Whether it’s a catchy funk melody or a raw block of wood, it’s all about creating something beautiful.
He shapes sound the way he carves matter.
It’s a job of patience and precision.
For him, it’s another language.
A vital way to channel his overflowing creativity into something tangible.
Music fades, the furniture stays.
It’s solid, far from the fragile, often unreliable intangibility of the music business.
An artisan from Philadelphia
Let’s not forget that he has stayed true to his roots.
He still lives in Philadelphia, right where it all began.
Picture the scene.
After the heat of a tour or a studio session, he returns to the quiet of his workshop.
He works the wood, his hands in the sawdust.
That only deepens the image of a man who is real, deeply rooted in the tangible world.
The constant thread of creation
In the end, everything is connected.
Whether he sings with intensity or builds a one‑of‑a‑kind piece, passion is the driving force.
It’s the same sacred fire that fuels both his hands and his voice.
It’s the soul of a true, passionate craftsman.
He doesn’t fake it.
This double identity, musician and cabinetmaker, only increases the admiration we feel for the man and the artist.
Want to feel the groove?
Head this way: 🎧
Garfield Fleming’s legacy: an influence that’s still alive and kicking
So, what’s left when you take a step back from all those years of music and passion?
Much more than just a handful of songs.
A place in “That Motown Band”
Today, you’ll still find him active with “That Motown Band,” and it’s pure joy.
This talented collective brings the golden age of Motown to life onstage with insane energy, reviving that blessed era rather than just playing the notes.
His presence in the group is no coincidence, believe me.
It’s a beautiful way to close the loop, paying a vibrant homage to the music that inspired him back in the day.
A form of artistic loyalty that commands respect.
An icon for DJs and collectors
For real diggers and funk DJs, Garfield Fleming is a name that instantly commands attention.
He remains an absolute reference in the “modern soul” sound, a demanding genre that doesn’t forgive mediocrity.
He’s a sure‑fire weapon to move any dancefloor.
And his encounters with legends of funk and soul are proof of his status among the elite.
Passion‑driven figures like DJ Tarek have played a major role in keeping his music alive, giving it a permanent place in modern funk and soul curation.
Without them, those gems might still be hiding in the shadows—and that would be a massive waste.
His legacy in a few key points
If we had to sum up his colossal impact in just a few words, here’s what would stick from this one‑of‑a‑kind artist.
A unique voice: a vocal signature recognizable in a heartbeat, able to deliver raw emotion in an instant.
An eternal anthem: “Please Don’t Send Me Away,” a track that has crossed generations without aging a day.
Authenticity: the image of a sincere artist, who has stayed true to his music and deep roots.
Perseverance: a career marked by longevity and an incredible ability to reinvent himself.
Passing the flame
In the end, Garfield Fleming is not just an artist from the past; he’s an essential bridge.
He keeps carrying the torch of authentic soul for new generations who are discovering the sound for the first time.
That’s the real magic of music: it never really dies.
“My only goal has always been simple: to sing from my soul and hope that it touches someone else’s soul. Everything else is just noise.”
Frankly, what an incredible story! https://www.mixcloud.com/radiofunkdisco/
From his beginnings in Philly to the unexpected YouTube buzz, Garfield Fleming remains a true boss.
Whether he’s belting a tune or building a piece of furniture, the guy just breathes authenticity.
That’s real soul that crosses time.
Me?
I’m totally hooked—aren’t you?
This is Mr Radio Funk, signing off.
And remember if your set doesn’t make the floor shake, you’re already a ghost.
Peace out, survivors.
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Final warning: After this, your excuses won’t age like wine they’ll just curdle.