Last weekend, we brought you a fun documentary, One Last Deal, about the Blaxploitation era movie, Superfly. This week, check out this film that looks at the entire movement, which included some of the best soundtracks and fashion of the time. We really enjoyed the grittiness of this one. Enjoy! Read more of this post
We are insane fans of soul music legend Curtis Mayfield and his seminal soundtrack work during the Blaxploitation film movement. In particular, Superfly, the groundbreaking movie and audio backdrop created by Mayfield changed the game. Enjoy this short documentary which reunited some of the cast and crew discusses the impact of the music on pop culture and beyond. Enjoy!
There is no shame in our game. We support the reelection of President Barack Obama. As such, we have put together the following list of tracks, which we feel capture the spirit of this election and will put you in a good mood as you prepare for a looong day waiting for the results.
The Impressions: Keep on Pushin’ -
How can you go wrong with Curtis Mayfield. This track always makes us feel good and reminds us of an era where folks were still fighting for the right to vote.
McFadden and Whitehead – Ain’t No Stoppin Us Now
A disco era anthem that rings true today.
The Impressions – We’re a Winner
Another super strong track from the Impressions led by the soulful voice of Curtis Mayfield
Who can resist Windy City soul? We know we can’t. From one of our all time favorites, Curtis Mayfield to the soul stirring sounds of countless doo wop era groups, this city not only has some of the best people and pizza anywhere, but also some of the most soulful tunes anywhere on the planet. This incredible 5 part documentary, which was originally broadcast on February 20th, 1997 on PBS during it’s African American Heritage Month series. It was narrated by the late Etta James. This should be perfect for a nice weekend viewing. Enjoy!
Pt. 1
This particular video features the early beginnings of both Chess Records and Vee Jay Records.
Record Row was where the Chicago music industry developed into a world class institutions of great impact and influenced the careers of the the Rolling Stones, The Who, The Beatles and Eric Clapton.
Pt.2This video tells the story of how the Chicago music industry addressed racial segregation in America and finally achieved to bring about unity across racial lines through the love of music which has no colour.
Pt. 3
The story about Chicago Soul music industry which Features some of the key creative power brokers in Chicago responsible for the success of Soul music in general across America and the world.
For example Billy Davis, the A&R director at Chess during the 1960s and record producer for such Soul classic as “Rescue Me” and “We’re Gonna Make It” released Chess Records.
Also featured in this documentary is the late Curtis Mayfield, the prolific song writer, composer and producer for Jerry Butler and the impressions their early hit on Vee Jay Records; “For Your Precious Love”.
The “Duke of Earl” classic performed by Gene Chandler and produced by Carl Davis.The record was released by Vee Jay Records. This hit record became the company’s first million selling record and Billboard Pop number one single in 1961.
Pt. 4
The dynamic development of Soul music according to Chess Records featuring Fontella Bass, The Dells and the sound of Chess Records’ studio band.
Just listen to Chicago Soul classic gold records such as “Rescue Me”, “Oh What A Night” and “Sitting In The Park.”
Witness other developments in the Chicago entertainment industry with the Chess brothers buying radio station called WVON. The station became the voice of black community address social issues of the day.
Don Cornelius former DJ employee of WVON and founder of Soul Train television programme talking about the impact of Chicago Soul music across America. Also Curtis Mayfeild and Eddie Thomas launching Curtom Records in 1968 and The Impressions performing songs with social messages and empowerment.
Pt. 5
The finally documentary tells the sad story of the decline of “Record Row” the heart of Chicago music industry.
Although I did not grow up when Dr. Martin Luther King was still alive, I benefitted greatly from his non-violent movement and achievements as a powerful orator and community leader. Like many, I heard Dr. King’s I Have a Dream speech throughout my years in school.
Growing up in a predominantly Black city ensured that I would see a image of Dr. King in every classroom and on the fans of every church. On this day, the day he was killed, let’s all try to take a moment of silence for this incredible leader who made an indelible impact on our lives and our future. Thank you Dr. King.
On April 4, 1968, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Junior was assassinated.
On April 3, King spoke to an audience at Bishop Charles J. Mason Temple making one of his many famous speeches saying, “But it really doesn’t matter with me now,” he declared, “because I’ve been to the mountaintop [and] I’ve seen the Promised Land.” He continued, “I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.”
He was gunned down on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. A white segregationist, James Earl Ray, was later convicted of the crime.
After her husband’s death, Coretta Scott King established the Atlanta-based Martin Luther King, Jr., Center for Nonviolent Social Change (also known as the King Center) to promote Kingian concepts of nonviolent struggle.
She also led the successful effort to honor her husband with a federally mandated King national holiday, which was first celebrated in 1986 Additionally, she and the King siblings successfully pursued a civil case in 1999 – King Family versus Jowers and Other Unknown Co-Conspirators (full transcript) – in which the jury concluded that King was assassinated as a result of a conspiracy.
Here are a couple songs that instantly come to mind when thinking about Dr. King:
Sam Cooke – A Change Gonna Come
U2 – In the Name of Love
Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions – We’re a Winner
Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions – Keep on Pushin
We have been grooving to this great collection of classic soul from one of the Black music Meccas, Chicago. DJ Cosm Roks assembles this timely collection for those who forget their roots. Chi-town stand up!
RT @JayFingers: Tks sir! RT @DrPostALot Love the write up from @JayFingers @soulhead1 for @GhostfaceKillah http://t.co/S4GFo7Ggd4 #Salute @AdrianYounge1 day ago via web from DrPostALot
