Sammy Kaplan, a true embodiment of Detroit’s R&B, blues, and funk, is a multifaceted talent in the music industry as a promoter, songwriter, music producer, and music publisher. Born into a music-loving family, Sammy’s father, Morris Kaplan, laid the foundation by establishing Danceland Records in the late 1940s. Sammy followed suit, working at an early age promoting music.
The music scene was thriving in the vibrant era of the 1950s, and Sammy seized the opportunity. Armed with his natural charisma, he made his mark with concerts, new acts, and radio DJs inundated with requests. Sammy established himself as a prominent promoter in the industry. Every big act that made its way to Detroit found its path crossing with Sammy Kaplan. Sammy’s commitment to working with the black populace reflected his passion for funk, soul, doo-wop, rhythm, and blues.
With the establishment of Lovelane Music Publishing, Sammy Kaplan had his record label blossoming with an impressive lineup featuring iconic names like John Lee Hooker, Candy Johnson, Tony Blues Lewis, Tommy J. Jefferson, Rose Nelson, Morris Kaplan, Jerry O, Mitch Ryder, The Sea Shells, The Soulmates, Tom & Jerry O, Roy Cohen, Tom Moers, Barbara Lewis, Jimmy Fallon, Gerald Alston, Joe Farrell, and Richard “Popcorn” Wylie. In addition, the recording of the original Funk Brothers, including James Jamison, Bennie Benjamin, Robert White, Eddie Bongo Brown, and Jack Ashford, contributed their exceptional talent to Lovelane Music’s demos and records. Sammy Kaplan’s remarkable journey as a promoter, songwriter, music producer, and music publisher showcases his deep love for music and his relentless pursuit of capturing the essence of Detroit R&B, blues, and funk.
