Electric Black Man: Say It Loud & Soul’s Hidden Masterpiece

This is the final mix of the Black Trilogie. While the first two mixes explored themes of drug-induced suffering, struggles in the ghetto, and women’s emancipation, this mix celebrates liberation, pride, and resistance through the powerful rhythms of soul and funk music.

Curtis Mayfield‘s departure from The Impressions in 1970 marked the dawn of a prolific solo career. However, when The Impressions recorded “Preacher Man,” their roster had dwindled to just two members. With Curtis Mayfield’s original successor Leroy Hutson pursuing his own path, the remaining duo, Sam Gooden and Fred Cash, faced the daunting task of revitalizing their legendary R&B ensemble. Yet, their 1972 album “Preacher Man” stands as a compelling testament to their enduring artistry, imbued with the smooth funk and socially conscious themes that Curtis had championed in his solo works.

Naomi Shelton’s interpretation of “You Got to Move,” a gospel-blues classic by Fred McDowell, first graced listeners in 2011 on the Mojo Magazine-curated compilation Sticky Soul Fingers. Shelton’s profoundly soulful voice, paired with tight and rhythmic retro accompaniment from Daptone Records, delivers a powerful tribute to the song’s origins. This track exemplifies the treasure trove of hidden gems in soul music that remain undiscovered by many.

The Stovalls, known for their backing vocals on Norman Greenbaum‘s hit, also delivered their own rendition of “Southern Man.” This track poignantly addresses the racial injustices of the American South, vividly illustrating the legacy of slavery and the call for restitution with lines like:

Sylvester and the Hot Band’s funk-infused version of this track, featured on their 1973 self-titled album.

Eric Mercury, who began as a prolific songwriter and producer for Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway, and contributed to the stage production of “Jesus Christ Superstar”, released his groundbreaking debut solo album “Electric Black Man” in 1969.

James Brown’s iconic 1968 funk anthem “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud,” co-written with his bandleader Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis, became a rallying cry for the Black Power movement. This track, featured on both his“ A Soulful Christmas” and 1969 self-titled album, marked Brown’s introduction of trombonist Fred Wesley into his ensemble.

British funk innovators Cymande, formed in London in 1971 by Steve Scipio and Patrick Patterson with musicians from Guyana, Jamaica, and Saint Vincent, crafted soulful tracks like “Brothers On the Slide.” The group’s name, derived from a calypso word for “dove,” symbolizes their message of peace and love.

Raw Soul Express‘s album “Best Kept Secret” lives up to its title, revealing a previously unreleased treasure trove of funk. Initially recorded in the 70s but only released in 2017, this album showcases the raw, southern funk brilliance of the group.

By the end of the 1960s, Motown’s influence was pervasive, with Gladys Knight and the Pips making a notable debut on Billboard’s Soul Singles chart with their 1969 track “Friendship Train,” a psychedelic funk-soul-gospel marvel.

Billy Paul’s 1972 funk anthem “Am I Black Enough for You?” from his “360 Degrees of Billy Paul” album, despite not matching the commercial success of “Me and Mrs. Jones,” remains a powerful statement of political and social commentary.

Norman Whitfield’s “Ball of Confusion,” produced for the Temptations in the late 60s and early 70s, stands out as a bold protest against the turmoil of the era, addressing issues from the Vietnam War to drug addiction.

The Main Ingredient’s 1971 album “Black Seeds” is a poignant tribute to lead singer Donald McPherson, whose sudden illness and death cast a shadow over its release. The album’s empowering themes resonate deeply with the struggles of the Afro-American community at the time.

Soul Scratch, a formidable funk outfit from LA’s San Fernando Valley, offers a distinctive sound in tracks like “Pacified,” rejecting mediocrity with their hard-hitting grooves.

Rokk’s shelved album “I Want To Live High,” recorded in 1976, remains an elusive gem. Featuring mid-tempo grooves, flute-led funk, and sultry female backing vocals, this album was prematurely withdrawn but later rediscovered for its soulful and funky brilliance.

In 1969, Bobby Franklin’s Insanity, after meeting Curtis Mayfield and signing with CURTOM Records, released the single “Bring It On Down To Me.” Despite its underpromotion, the track “Hit It and Quit It” has become a beloved classic.

Following the assassination of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968, Phil Flowers and his group were dispatched to soothe rioting neighborhoods. Their 1973 release “Fire, Fire” stands as a poignant response to the era’s tensions.

100 Proof (Aged in Soul), formed in Detroit in 1969 by Holland-Dozier-Holland, produced notable hits between 1969 and 1972. Their music, marked by soulful grooves and powerful lyrics, reflects the innovative spirit of their era.

Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground,” from 1973, remains an enduring anthem of spiritual and social upliftment, capturing the essence of funk’s transformative power with lyrics that resonate deeply.

The Playlist

1. Introduction – Reverend Jesse Jackson (Wattstax)
2. Preacher Man – The Impressions
3. You got to move – Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens
4. Spirit in the Sky – The Stovall Sisters
5. Southern Man – Sylvester and the Hot Band
6. Electric Black Man – Eric Mercury
7. Say it Loud – James Brown
8. Brothers on the Slide – Cymande
9. Do you know what you feel – Raw Soul Express
10. Friendship Train – Gladys Knight & The Pips
11. Am I black enough for you? – Billy Paul
12. Ball of Confusion (That’s what the world is today) – The Temptations
13. Don’t forget what I tould you – The Impressions
14. Black Seeds keep on growing – The Main Ingredient
15. Pacified – Soul Scratch
16. It Better git Better – Rokk
17. Hit it and Quit it – Bobby Franklin’s Insanity
18. The Revolution will not be Televised – Gill Scott-Heron
19. Fire, Fire – Phil Flowers and His United Family
20. Don’t Scratch where it don’t Itch – 100 Proof Aged in Soul
21. Every Day People – Sly & The Family Stone
22. It’s your thing – The Isley Brothers
23. Higher Ground – Stevie Wonder
24. Men are getting Scarce – Chairmen of the Board

This is the last mix of the Black Trilogie. This mix is about liberation, proud and resitence through soul and funk music. by Funkologie on Mixcloud

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