How Underground FM Radio Saved Rock
This is what happened when college-age music enthusiasts raided empty FM radio studios and played whatever turned them on.
soul
Lollise Makes a Splash With Brilliant Debut ‘I Hit the Water’
Lollise’s I Hit the Water is brilliant, swirling, and compelling with its blend of Afrobeat, soul, and electronics. It’s a debut deserving all your attention.
Minnie Riperton’s ‘Perfect Angel’ at 50: Imperfectly Angelic
Soul singer Minnie Riperton made full use of her multi-octave voice and songwriting talent on 1974’s Perfect Angel, with her still-beloved hit, “Lovin’ You”.
The Tedeschi Trucks Band Soar Over the Moon in Berkeley
Whether blues power can help save a world gone mad from dystopian decline remains to be seen, but the Tedeschi Trucks Band appear ready to do so or die trying.
Swamp Dogg Goes Bluegrass and Americana on ‘Blackgrass’
On Blackgrass: From West Virginia to 125th St, Swamp Dogg interprets soul, funk, and jazz themes through the lens of bluegrass and Americana forms.
Ugandan Jon Muq’s Music Is Warm and Familiar on ‘Flying Away’
Jon Muq’s voice and presence come off as natural and unaffected. One has to listen carefully to appreciate the breadth and the subtlety of his talents.
Lady Wray Ignites Berlin with Joy
With the pipes to scare a grizzly bear, soul music’s Lady Wray ignites Berlin with the full range of her joyful, thunderous mezzo-soprano.
Dancing in the Street: Our 25 Favorite Motown Songs
Detroit’s Motown Records will forever be important as a hit factory and an African American-owned label that achieved massive mainstream success and influence.
Jeff Rogers Goes South to Look for His ‘Dream Job’
Canadian roots rocker Jeff Rogers went to Muscle Shoals to record Dream Job. He and his band carve out nine tracks of bluesy piano-centered rock.
Robert Finley Ain’t Wasting Any Time
Blues legend Robert Finley’s blues-rock sound is hitting a whole new generation of fans, and his unbridled energy shows that age ain’t nothin’ but a number.
Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe Pushes the Good Vibe
Funky jazz saxophonist Karl Denson celebrated another birthday at San Francisco’s Fillmore, using the occasion to deliver a funky fiesta for the new year.
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The 11 Best R&B/Soul Albums of 2023
In these challenging times, the best R&B and soul albums walked tall and carried a big stick, while also being a much-needed balm and source of warmth.