Originally released by Parliament, early 1970s

This arrangement: 2003

Length: 7 minutes

Orchestration: Fanny, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones, 4 saxophones, bassoon, 2 guitars, electric bass, piano, pedal harp, drummers, strings that can play Motown (4 violins, 2 violas, 2 cellos)

In 1969, after Eddie Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Brian Holland had raked in enough dough from their Motown efforts, they did what many artists wish they could do: help other artists. Their Detroit-based Hot Wax/Inviticus labels were designed to bring out the Detroit underground, which Parliament was a part of at that time. This song came through a re-issue called "First Thangs." Its anti-war lyrics may still resonate with listeners today.

-- Double G

Further listening: Anything ever recorded by
Parliament