SOUL
Discover the timeless allure of soul music – its emotive melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonate with audiences, capturing the essence of human emotion.
Soul music was born out of the cultural and musical richness of African American communities in the United States, it is a genre that speaks directly to the depths of human emotion. Originating in the late 1950s and gaining prominence in the 1960s, soul is characterised by its profound expression of feelings, often focusing on themes of love, heartbreak, and social justice. With its roots deeply embedded in gospel and rhythm and blues, soul music features passionate and emotive vocals, intricate melodies, and a strong rhythmic foundation.
Iconic artists like Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke have left an indelible mark on the genre, showcasing its ability to transcend musical boundaries and connect with listeners on a soul-stirring level. Soul music continues to influence and inspire diverse musical landscapes, proving its enduring significance in the tapestry of American and global musical heritage.
Some soul classic artists include Otis Ray Redding Jr., Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and James Brown
Jean-Paul’s all time favourite soul songs are ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’ and ‘Stand by me’, these songs are on his setlist.
Otis Ray Redding
Find out some interesting facts about Soul...
Otis Ray
Redding Jr.
#1 Redding began his music career as a member of The Upsetters before going solo.
#2 Iconic song “sittin’ on the dock bay” wasn’t released until after his tragic death in 1967.
#3 Redding was an influential figure for many artists including The Rolling Stones.
Marvin
Gaye
#1 Marvin Gaye’s last name didn’t always end in ‘e’ he added the ‘e’ to distinguish himself from his father whom he didn’t get along with and to dispel rumours of his homosexuality.
#2 When Marvin was 17, he ran away and joined the air force, during his time with the air force he had trouble following orders and was honourably discharged in 1956.
#3 When Tammi Terrell died in 1970, it almost ended Marvin’s career. Their relationship was totally platonic.
Smokey
Robinson
#1 Smokey Robinson was a talented multi-instrumentalist.
#2 He left The Miracles in 1972 to pursue a solo career.
#3 Smokey has collaborated with a wide range of artists across different genres including Elton John, Aretha Franklin, and Celine Dion.
Stevie
Wonder
#1 Did you know, Stevie Wonder’s instrumental album ‘Rednow Eivets’ is his name spelled backwards! Fact!
#2 In 1973 he temporarily lost both his taste and smell due to a car accident that put him in a coma. After a short while these were regained once out of his coma.
#3 The first song he learn’t to play on the piano was ‘three blind mice’. If you can play this, you may be the next Stevie Wonder in the making.
James
Brown
#1 Did you know James Brown started his singing career in the church choir!
#2 He has recorded over 50 studio albums over his career .
#3 James brown starred in several movies throughout his career such as ‘The Blue Brothers’ and ‘Rocky IV’
Marvin Gaye
Smokey Robinson
Stevie Wonder
James Brown
If you are up for some soul and rhythmic sounds, book Jean-Paul for your next occasion!
Why not treat yourself to an evening of soulful tunes, including classics like ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered,’ ‘Stand by Me,’ ‘Being with You,’ and more!
Click the ‘Book Now’ button to get in touch with your event details.
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