gramophone soul

The Groovy History of Gramophone Soul: A Vinyl Voyage

Gramophone soul, also known as “library soul” or “rare groove,” isn’t a single genre, but a vast and funky collection of soul, funk, and jazz records that have been rediscovered in recent years. These tunes, often hiding in dusty boxes at flea markets or forgotten in the depths of libraries, have captured the hearts of music lovers seeking a different kind of groove.

The Roots of the Groove: A Trip Back in Time

This musical journey began in the 1960s and 70s, a time when soul music exploded. Record labels like Stax, Motown, and Atlantic produced countless artists with unique sounds, but not every record became a hit. These “forgotten” tracks often found their way to libraries, where they were cataloged and enjoyed by music lovers and researchers.

Rediscovery: Digging Through the Dusty Bins

The rediscovery of these gems began in the 1990s and 2000s, fueled by the rise of DJ culture and the resurgence of interest in funk and soul. Diggers, fueled by a passion for finding the next undiscovered classic, sifted through record bins and library archives. They unearthed forgotten soul, jazz, and funk gems, creating a new wave of appreciation for these tracks.

Funny Facts About the Pioneers of the Groove:

• James Brown’s “Funky Drummer” is arguably the most sampled drum break in music history. Its iconic groove has been used in countless hip hop, funk, and soul tracks, from the Beastie Boys to The Rolling Stones. Fun fact: James Brown once claimed to be the “hardest-working man in show business,” and his tireless work ethic fueled his musical genius.

• The Meters were a New Orleans funk band known for their signature sound. The band’s bass player, George Porter Jr., was also a talented guitarist, and he once played with the legendary Johnny “Guitar” Watson. Fun fact: The Meters had a unique way of recording their music, often using a single microphone to capture the entire band’s sound.

• Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings brought the sound of classic soul back to the forefront in the 2000s. Sharon Jones was a powerhouse vocalist with a captivating stage presence. Fun fact: Before becoming a singer, Sharon Jones worked as a corrections officer at a prison.

The Groove Continues:

Gramophone soul remains a vibrant and evolving scene. The music is constantly being rediscovered, and new generations of musicians are finding inspiration in its funky grooves. Whether it’s the soulful sounds of Marvin Gaye, the funky beats of The Meters, or the powerful vocals of Sharon Jones, gramophone soul offers a rich musical journey through the past, present, and future.

This journey is just beginning. The groove is yours to discover!