Aretha Franklin & Ray Charles: Spirit in the Dark (Live at Filmore West, 1972)
“…Midway through, Franklin gives up her seat at the electric piano to Charles, and notes well into his solo, “it’s funky up in here.” Nearly 40 years later, the performance stands one of the greatest moments in the careers of both artists, if not one of the great live recordings in all of pop music.” New Black Man Celebrating the Queen of Soul’s Birthday by Mark Anthony Neal
Eddie Bo: Tell It Like It Is
“Sad news out of New Orleans today – Eddie Bo, the great singer, songwriter and producer/composer died today of a heart attack; he was age 79. ” Soul Sides
The Spinners: It’s A Shame
“Q: What are some of the upcoming things you have planned for imminent release? For instance, the Motown Sings Motown Treasures set featuring well-know artists singing songs that are not necessarily identified with them — such as The Spinners singing “Shop Around,” or The Jackson Five doing “You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me.” Are you doing more of those?
A: In the next few months there’s gonna be a Martha and the Vandellas, as well as a Four Tops edition of the Lost and Found series of unreleased studio and live recordings. We are also preparing Marvin Gaye Live at the Copa, which never came out. As far as Motown Sings Motown Treasures, I hope so. Not this year, but I hope so. Like I said, “Watch This Space for more details.” Read much more from Crutchfield
James Brown: The Payback -medley (1974)
“The idea of Wesley Snipes as James Brown is old, right? Yes. Director Spike Lee has been threatening to make a biopic of the hardest working man in showbiz for years.” The Playlst
Jimmy Ruffin: What Becomes of The Broken Hearted
“You can’t really have a good house party unless you play some Motown.” Martha Reeves at Vanity Fair.
