Here’s another very-oldie dating back to 1963 by The Drew-Vels – re-recorded four years later as a solo single by Patti Drew. (more…)

This may be the most extraordinary discovery I’ve stumbled upon.
It was recorded in 1963 but its psych-tinged blend of jazz, soul and blues is way ahead of its time. (more…)

This is the best, best-known, and best-selling song ever written by Tom T. Hall, who died last week. It’s also the only hit for Jeannie C. Riley. (more…)

Dyke & The Blazers are best known for the original – and best – version of Funky Broadway, which went on to be a hit for Wilson Pickett. This tune from 1969 is even funkier. (more…)

Some of the best pop songs do everything they need to do in less than three minutes. Like this funky little treat.
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Be My Baby is arguably the single most perfect pop song of all time. And surely Spector’s crowning achievement. (more…)

Going back to New Orleans, and back to the Neville Brothers, here is Aaron’s brother Art, teaming up with Allen Toussaint.
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This is probably the soppiest song I like. It’s the antithesis of the soul music I like best – the gritty, sweaty, southern soul of Stax and Muscle Shoals. And yet… (more…)

This is another long jam for a summer’s day, fusing an R&B groove with the flightier embellishments of jazz. (more…)