Lost Boston Soul Great Gets His Due

Four people in professional attire stand close together, looking down at the camera, with the title "The Westies" and the tagline "Lost Boston Soul" displayed at the bottom.
A vinyl record labeled "WHAT I GOT, I GOT (AND AIN'T GONNA LOSE)" by Maurice, a Lost Soul Great of the Boston Soul scene, released in 1971 by Grass-Of-Home; duration 2:47.

Herschel Dwellingham, also known as “Boston’s Number One Soul Man,” was an unstoppable force in the Boston soul scene. As bandleader and musical director at The Sugar Shack, Herschel worked with everyone from Stevie Wonder, Jackie Wilson, and Sam & Dave to Ray Charles, Al Green, and James Brown.

In 1967, he founded the label My Record with his wife, Alva, and DJ Skippy White. In 1971, they released the single “What I Got I Got (And Ain’t Gonna Lose)” by Maurice, a charismatic performer and staple on the scene. The gritty, driving funk tune showcases Maurice’s impassioned vocals and Herschel’s unmistakable production and drum grooves. Unfortunately, the record never blew up past the regional scene. 

In 2019, Herschel partnered with Fervor Records to breathe new life into his back catalog. It’s been a great ride, “What I Got I Got (And Ain’t Gonna Lose)” alone has landed in 8 TV shows, 1 film, and an ad campaign. The latest win is Episode 105 of the MGM+ series “The Westies.” Stream “The Westies” on MGM+, and discover Maurice at your favorite music destination!