Azar Lawrence’s third solo album People Moving was released in 1976 on Prestige Records. The album features Lawrence on tenor, alto and soprano saxophone alongside a group of incredible musicians including Patrice Rushen on electric piano and vocals, Harvey Mason on drums, and Mtume on percussion. Dedicated to the great Charles Stepney, People Moving showcases Lawrence’s versatility as a saxophonist and composer, blending elements of funk, soul, and jazz into a cohesive and engaging musical experience. The album’s title track, “People Moving,” is a funky, up-tempo groove led by Lawrence’s soulful saxophone playing and Jerry Peters’ killer horn arrangement. Notably, this was Skip Scarborough’s first time producing a full album. He would go on to produce for a number of artists including Bobbi Humphery, Con Funk Shun, Phyllis Hyman and more.

Artists

Azar Lawrence (saxophone), Skip Scarborough (keyboard, synthesizer), Patrice Rushen (keyboard, synthesizer, piano, vocalist), Michael Stanton (keyboard, synthesizer, piano), Jerry Peters (keyboard, synthesizer, piano), John Rowin (synthesizer, guitar), Paul Jackson (electricbassguitar), Harvey Mason (drumkit), Lee Ritenour (guitar), Mtume (percussion), Oscar Brashear (trumpet), Chuck Findley (trumpet), George Bohanon (trombone), Ernie Watts (altosaxophone), Buddy Collette (tenorsaxophone), Cheryl Barnes (vocalist), Josie James (vocalist), Michael Wright (vocalist), Dick Ricardo (percussion)