Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion

The Birthplace of Soul: Memphis in the 1960s

In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, during the turbulent 1960s, a musical revolution was taking place. At the forefront was Stax Records, a small but influential independent label that became a cornerstone of the American soul music scene. With its infectious grooves, raw emotion, and socially conscious lyrics, Stax's music captured the spirit of a time of great change and became a soundtrack for the Civil Rights Movement.

Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion

by Robert Gordon

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9911 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	583 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Stax Records was founded in 1957 by two white entrepreneurs, Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton. Initially focused on regional R&B and gospel artists, the label found its niche in 1960 when it stumbled upon the raw talent of Otis Redding. With Redding's soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Stax's sound began to take shape.

Otis Redding: The King of Soul

Otis Redding became the heart and soul of Stax Records. His powerful vocals and commanding stage presence made him a forceful performer, while his songwriting captured the essence of the human experience. Songs like "Respect Yourself," "I've Been Loving You Too Long," and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" became classics that continue to resonate today.

Tragically, Redding's life was cut short at the age of 26 when his plane crashed into Lake Monona in Wisconsin in 1967. His death sent shockwaves through the music world, but his legacy continues to inspire countless musicians and fans.

Carla Thomas: The First Lady of Stax

Carla Thomas was another pivotal figure in the Stax story. The daughter of Stax co-founder Estelle Axton, Thomas released her debut single at the age of 14. With her sweet yet soulful vocals, she became one of the label's most recognizable voices.

Thomas's signature hit, "Gee Whiz," became a hit in 1961 and cemented her place as a rising star. She went on to record a string of successful songs, including "B-A-B-Y" and "Tramp." Thomas was known for her powerful stage presence and her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

Booker T. & the M.G.'s: The House Band that Defined Stax's Sound

No discussion of Stax Records would be complete without mentioning Booker T. & the M.G.'s. This instrumental group, led by Booker T. Jones, Steve Cropper, Lewie Steinberg, and Al Jackson Jr., provided the signature sound for countless Stax recordings.

Their tight grooves, crisp rhythms, and infectious melodies became synonymous with the Stax sound. The M.G.'s played on classic tracks by Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Rufus Thomas, among others. They also released a number of their own hit instrumentals, including "Green Onions" and "Hip Hug-Her."

Stax Records was a beacon of innovation and creativity during a time of great social change. Its music captured the soul of a generation and continues to inspire and resonate today. The legacy of Stax Records lives on through its timeless music, its iconic artists, and its lasting impact on American culture.

Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion

by Robert Gordon

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9911 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	583 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE