Soul Saturdays have spread to more than one popular London nightclub - and while there is plenty of Top 40 stuff and current artists to be heard at these nights, you'll also find the DJ paying a healthy homage to the godfathers and soul sisters of the genre. Today we check out another 5 of the songs that'll make you feel good ... I knew that you would now!
Reach Out (I'll Be There), The Four Tops
You might not know who originally recorded it, but you'll certainly recognize that chorus! Always fab to hear this tune when you're out with your buds, looking for nothing but a great Saturday night. You'll recognize the lead singer's voice from I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch). If it isn’t the Four Tops version you hear, it could be any of twenty odd popular covers - Elton John, Gloria Gaynor, Boyz II Men, Clare Teal and Diana Ross have all done their own versions.
Hold On, I'm Comin, Sam and Dave
Another great, clightly cheeky tune to use as a reason to approach that guy or gal you've had your eye on in a London nightclub! Sing the lyrics to your potential partner ... but don't be too serious, let a little self-deprecation in for best effect. This song was named in the top 100 songs of the past 25 years by Rolling Stone.
Lady Marmalade, Labelle
Whether the original by Labelle, Xtina's or the All Saints version that's playing, it's a rare day that doesn't see the dancefloor of every nightclub in London filled when Lady Marmalade comes on! For those of you who had never really questioned the seemingly random arrangement of sounds in the chorus (like myself, I'm a little ashamed to admit!), it is actually a French phrase - Voulez vous coucher avec moi (ce soir)? It translates to 'Do you want to sleep with me tonight?'
Chain of Fools, Aretha Franklin
She's soul sister number one ... and this track, which came out around the same time as Respect, was one of those that cemented this status. This London nightclub soul favorite was honored with a Grammy when it came out, and also with a Hall of Fame Grammy.
What'd I Say, Ray Charles
Well! Wikipedia, at least, credits this track with actually birthing the genre of soul. I'd confidently say that new genres take time to define - but it certainly catapulted Ray Charles into the mainstream spotlight. It comes in at number 10 in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and Ray Charles closed every concert with this song from 1954 onwards. It's a staple for any self-respecting RnB club.
