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Memphis soul, also known as the Memphis sound, is the most prominent strain of Southern soul. It is a shimmering, sultry style produced in the 1960s and 1970s at Stax Records and Hi Records in Memphis, Tennessee, featuring melodic unison horn lines, organ, guitar, bass, and a driving beat on the drums.
- Chris Herrington
- “The Dark End of the Street” — James Carr (1967): In a city whose classic soul scene was dominated by two labels, Stax and Hi, is it possible the greatest song came from neither?
- “Love and Happiness” — Al Green (1973): Green is as associated with eros (romantic love) as any singer, but this visionary anthem could be read as a sermon on agape, its higher form.
- “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long (To Stop Now)” — Otis Redding (1965): Co-written with singer Jerry Butler, and it starts with a waltz-like rhythm similar to Butler’s “For Your Precious Love.”
- “Soul Man” — Sam & Dave (1967): Perhaps it suffers from overexposure. But try to listen with fresh ears: Steve Cropper’s guitar intro as an old friend walking through the door.
- Southern Avenue
- Valerie June
- Talibah Safiya
- Don Bryant
- Joyce Cobb
- The Bo-Keys
This soulful ensemble combines elements of soul, blues, and gospel to create a fresh and energetic sound. Led by the powerhouse vocals of Tierinii Jackson and the skillful guitar playing of Ori Naftaly, Southern Avenue has garnered acclaim for their captivating live performances and soul-stirring lyrics. Tracks like “Don’t Give Up” and “Keep On” sh...
With her distinctive voice and poetic songwriting, Valerie June has become a rising star in the contemporary soul music scene. Her music effortlessly blends elements of folk, blues, and soul, creating a unique and captivating sound. Songs like “Pushin’ Against a Stone” and “Astral Plane” highlight her soulful delivery and introspective lyrics, show...
Talibah Safiya’s music style is a captivating fusion that defies easy categorization. Drawing from a wide range of influences, her music seamlessly blends elements of soul, R&B, jazz, and electronic sounds to create a truly unique sonic landscape. Safiya’s velvety smooth vocals, combined with her poetic lyricism, create an intimate and emotive list...
A veteran of the Memphis soul music scene, Don Bryant has recently experienced a resurgence in his career. Known for his work as a songwriter and performer for Hi Records in the 1960s and 1970s, Bryant returned to the spotlight with his critically acclaimed album “Don’t Give Up on Love.” With his smooth and soulful vocals, Bryant continues to capti...
A true legend of Memphis soul, Joyce Cobb has been a staple of the city’s music scene for decades. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Cobb’s music embodies the essence of soul. From her early hits like “Dig the Gold” to her recent releases, such as “Love Infection,” Cobb’s soulful delivery and captivating performances continue...
This Memphis-based band blends soul, funk, and R&B into their signature sound. With a lineup consisting of seasoned musicians and members who have played with iconic artists like Al Green and Otis Redding, The Bo-Keys have a deep understanding of the soul music tradition. Their albums, including “Heartaches by the Number” and “Got to Get Back!”, ex...
Memphis soul is a little more stylish, a little more uptown -- but unlike other uptown soul genres, like Chicago soul, it rarely makes concessions to pop. And, while it is certainly smooth, it's not as light as sweet soul.
Jan 3, 2024 · Hi Records was a record label based in Memphis, Tennessee, and it played a significant role in the development of soul and R&B music, particularly during the...
Memphis soul is a little more stylish, a little more uptown -- but unlike other uptown soul genres, like Chicago soul, it rarely makes concessions to pop. And, while it is certainly smooth, it's not as light as sweet soul. It's stylish and funky, classy but soulful.
The Sound of Memphis Soul · Playlist · 203 songs · 1.8K likes.
