Sweet Inspiration (Johnny Johnson and the Bandwagon song) explained

Sweet Inspiration
Cover:	Johnny Johnson and the Bandwagon Sweet Inspiration.jpg
Type:	single
Artist:	Johnny Johnson and the Bandwagon
Album:	Soul Survivor
B-Side:	Pride Comes Before a Fall
Genre:	Soul
Label:	Bell
Producer:	Tony Macaulay
Prev Title:	Let's Hang On
Prev Year:	1969
Next Title:	(Blame It) On the Pony Express
Next Year:	1970

"Sweet Inspiration" is a song by the American soul group Johnny Johnson and the Bandwagon, the first single from their second album Soul Survivor, released in May 1970. It peaked at number 10 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming their second top-ten hit there.

Release

Due to the group's lack of success in the US compared to the UK (where "Breakin' Down the Walls of Heartache" was a top 5 hit), the group had moved to the UK, and "Sweet Inspiration" was released there first before its release in the US in July. The B-side, "Pride Comes Before a Fall", was written by Jacky Arthur and Mel Kent.^[1]

Track listing

7"

1. "Sweet Inspiration" – 3:05
2. "Pride Comes Before a Fool" – 2:40

Cover versions

• In July 1970, Cilla Black released a version of the song on her album Sweet Inspiration.^[3]
• A version by Dusty Springfield was recorded in June 1970 but was not released at the time.^[4] It has since been released on various compilation albums.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Johnny Johnson And The Bandwagon - Sweet Inspiration. 45cat. 23 February 2022.
2. Hits of the World . . 53 . 14 November 1970 . 24 February 2022 . World Radio History.
3. Web site: Cilla Black - Sweet Inspiration. Discogs. July 1970 . 23 February 2022.
4. Come for a Dream: The UK Sessions 1970–1971. 2015. booklet. RGM-0383. Real Gone Music.