Stand Up! (see 1979 in music) was The Archers fifth studio album and fourth Light Records release. It was co-produced by Elvis PresleyâÂÂs TCB Band keyboardist Larry Muhoberac and studio engineer John Guess.
Stand Up! was the first album in which former female vocalist Nancye Short-Tsapralis did not participate. Although Tsapralis sang background vocals on the prior Fresh Surrender project (un-credited), Janice ArcherâÂÂs voice was used on female leads. Recording began in late 1978 and continued through early 1979. It is distinctive for a number of notable guest artist appearances, including Billy Preston, who played the Hammond B-3 on the groupâÂÂs cover of his spiritual, âÂÂGod Loves YouâÂÂ, which also featured Sandra Crouch and Nichol Larson on back-up vocals.
Steely Dan alumnus Ernie Watts was also featured on tenor sax for the up-tempo song "Only His Love". Once again, the group was accompanied by a virtual âÂÂwho's whoâ of LA studio players, with David Hungate returning on bass along with Reinie Press and Dean Parks on guitar. Also featured were Archersâ tour band players, Phil Kristianson (keyboards) and Tony Sena (guitar).
The album produced a number of hits, most notably Steve ArcherâÂÂs title tune and Tim ArcherâÂÂs "Pickinâ Up The Pieces". Also receiving solid airplay were âÂÂFools ParadiseâÂÂ, Janice ArcherâÂÂs cover of Kelly WillardâÂÂs smash âÂÂBlame It On The One I LoveâÂÂ.