Hamilton Joe Frank & Reynolds - Don't Pull Your Love / Funk-In-Wagnal

Year Released: 1971
Genre: Pop Rock / Blue-Eyed Soul

Description:

Released on Dunhill Records in 1971, “Don’t Pull Your Love” marked the breakout hit for Los Angeles trio Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds — a seamless fusion of polished pop craftsmanship and blue-eyed soul exuberance. Written by Brian Potter and Dennis Lambert, the single is driven by soaring harmonies, vibrant horn arrangements, and a rhythm section steeped in early-’70s AM radio warmth.

“Don’t Pull Your Love” tells a tale of romantic pleading with an irresistible melodic hook and a touch of gospel-like urgency. The track’s production, marked by bright brass accents and crisp acoustic guitar, situates it between the soulful orchestrations of The Grass Roots and the smooth pop of early Chicago.

The B-side, “Funk-In-Wagnal...,” lives up to its playful title — a tight, groove-based instrumental that highlights the band’s rhythm section and session-player precision. Less pop-oriented but equally polished, it reveals their underrated versatility beyond the hit single.

Together, the two sides showcase a band balancing pop immediacy with subtle funk undercurrents — a radio staple of the early ’70s that still resonates with fans of melodic, groove-oriented soft rock.