Free Online Concert: American Soul
TUE 1 DEC
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The names of great Soul and R&B musicians bring a cascade of music to mind. Ray Charles, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, and others brought a new sound to popular music. Rooted in Gospel traditions and merged with doo-wop sounds, Soul music rose up from the post-WW II generation of professional Black musicians whose talents and energetic musical stylings emerged just as traditional pop music’s appeal was fading with the rise of rock ‘n roll.
Exceptional music entrepreneurs like Detroit’s Barry Gordy (founder of Tamala Motown Records) and Jim Wexler (Atlantic Records) began producing music that featured powerful Black vocalists, deeply emotional lyrics, imaginative and memorable melodies, and soaring arrangements for brass, percussion and backup choirs. At the same time, Soul music turned to the successful teen market with catchy lyrics and tunes with driving clean beats, just right for AM radio. Groups like the Supremes and The Four Tops delighted listeners with melodrama and the exuberant romanticism that bubbled as the antidote to rock ‘n roll of the time.
Like no other music, American Soul brought a divided country together during the 1960s and 70s. In fact, the influence of Soul music was international. To be unaware of the music of Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Dianna Ross was almost impossible. These international music superstars smashed racial barriers in unimaginable ways with the power of their music.
We’re so proud to be featuring Louisville-based musicians Jason Clayborn and Daria Raymore in this concert. Two musicians with the vocal power and the deep instinct for performing Soul music that comes from their living and breathing Gospel and R&B music throughout their amazing careers.
Don’t miss this free concert!
