When I mouth off to a Starbucks employee because they attempt to sell me some “neo-soul” baloney, it is only because a long time ago I did the research and found out where the music I love comes from. I know what it looks like, I know what it sounds like, and I know what it tastes and smells like. I also know that I haven’t seen it for a long time and, perhaps, I’ve never seen it living among my the members of my own generation.
I’m not sure the world could handle another Otis, but I’d like to see the day where R&B (that’s Rhythm and Blues, folks) becomes relevant again. Below is a prime example of an element that is sorely missed in modern soul (and rock) music.
I couldn’t decide on which performance of “Tenderness” I wanted to share with you, but here is another performance (from a European tour in 1967) with better footage of the musicians (Booker T. & The MGs).
Amen Justin. Amen.
But, i think you’d really enjoy the new Corrine Bailey Rae CD. Maybe not…
http://www.hearmusic.com/#PRODUCT98
Whenever I expose a student or friend to Otis Redding, I always make a joke about how Chris Robinson from the Black Crowes owes him a check– not just for covering “Hard to Handle,” but his whole vocal style is an undeniable emulation of Otis. I’m not a huge Black Crowes fan (although “Three Snakes and One Charm” is probably in my Top 20 somewhere) but I think Chris Robinson does Otis justice with his career-spanning homage.