Whodini – Whodini

On this day, October 13, 1983.

Whodini is the self-titled debut record by Whodini. Released 1983 on Jive Records. The album had two hit singles, “Magic’s Wand” and “The Haunted House of Rock.” Conny Plank handled the audio production, Heatwave’s Roy Carter, Thomas Dolby, and the Willesden Dodgers (Nigel Green, Pete Q. Harris, Richard Joh Smith).

The record itself did not reach any significant music chart. Thomas Dolby produced the single “Magic’s Wand,” which hit number #11 on the Dance Club charts and 45th on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop charts. “The Haunted House of Rock” peaked at #27 on the top Dance Club Songs and #55 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop charts.

Coming out of the New York rap scene of the early ’80s, Whodini was one of the first rap artists to add an R&B twist to their music, thus laying the foundation for a new genre – new jack swing.

 Six records the group has released in total.

Track List

1. The Haunted House Of Rock
2. Nasty Lady
3. Underground
4. It’s All In Mr. Magic’s Wand
5. Magic’s Wand
6. Yours For A Night
7. Rap Machine
8. The Haunted House Of Rock (Vocoder Version)

Singles

“Magic’s Wand,” a rap about radio pioneer Mr. Magic, became the first rap song to receive a music video. Thomas Dolby helped produce this single. “Magic’s Wand” is one of Whodini’s most sampled songs.

1. Magic’s Wand B Major, 1B, 112 BPM (5:38)
2. It’s All In Mr. Magic’s Wand
3. Magic’s Wand (Special Extended Mix)

The second single. “Haunted House of Rock,” released for Halloween. 

1. The Haunted House Of Rock (Extended Version) B♭ Minor, 3A 107 BPM (6:32)
2. The Haunted House Of Rock (Haunted Mix)
3. The Haunted House Of Rock (Vocoder Version)
4. The Haunted House Of Rock (Acapella)

I love mixing Whodini — Magic’s Wand with Newcleus — Jam On Revenge (The Wikki Wikki Song) E Major 12B 112 BPM (6:36); they have similar tempos, and keep that Classic Hip Hop going.