This collection of Random Gems continues with the 'soul' theme we introduced in the July issue of the Cud. While this type of music originated in the 1960's there have been several modern incarnations of the 'soul' and 'rhythm and blues' tradition of Atlantic, Stax and Motown.

The song: 100 days 100 nights

The players: Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings

Had she pursued a musical career when in her teens, Sharon Jones may have been a soul star from the 1970's. Instead, her career as a professional musician took off in 1996 [1], and over the last 15 years she has enjoyed tremendous success. 

Sharon Jones is touring Australia in 2012, and I can't wait to see her live at the Sydney Opera House on 4 Jan 2012. This YouTube clip is from her live performance on Later... with Jools Holland.

The song: Cry To Me

The players: Solomon Burke

I first heard this song on the soundtrack to the movie Dirty Dancing. While it happens at an important moment in the movie (you'll have to watch it again), the song only appeared in volume two of the soundtrack album. This was Solomon Burke's second single and reached #5 on the billboard charts in 1962 [2].

The song: Detroit City

The players: Tom Jones

Tom Jones had the voice and the talent to convert country songs into soul-style songs, most notably with the 'Green Green Grass of Home'. Detroit City is another country song that received Jones' soul treatment [3]. 

While Tom Jones's smooth voice is completely different to the rawness of American Soul singers, he delivers with power, precision and panache.

References

1. http://exclaim.ca/Interviews/FromTheMagazine/Sharon_Jones_Keeps_It_Real
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solomon_Burke#.22Cry_to_Me.22_.281962.29