"Sweet Rhode Island Red" was recorded at the Turners' studio Bolic Sound in Inglewood, California in February 1974. Tina Turner penned the tune and it was produced by Ike Turner. The single was released the following month as a follow-up to their hit "Nutbush City Limits." "Sweet Rhode Island Red" follows a similar formula as a funk rock guitar driven-song. It did moderately on the charts, reaching No. 43 on the Billboard R&B singles chart, and charting overseas as well.
Ike and Tina follow their hard driving "Nutbush City Limits" with this equally super driving rocker. Not only does Tina do what she does best (and that is most definitely belt), but Ike gets some super licks in on his extra funky guitar. Item should perk up most any programmers playlist and make the disco crowd a very happy lot. Watch this one climb to the top soon.[2]
Record World (March 16, 1974): "Even 'Proud Mary' seems pale in comparison to the latest stick of dynamite from this super high-powered duo. Moog soul spiced with tough horns help stir up the story of a most sensual lady into a caldron of caustic chart sauce, pop and soul."[3]
