The Electrifying Beat That Revolutionized Dance Culture
The Northern Soul Movement, which began in the late Sixties in Northern England, brought together thousands of young Brits who gathered in ballrooms to dance all night to obscure mid-Sixties soul records from Detroit, Memphis, Chicago, and New Orleans. Though the original phenomenon faded in the early Eighties, the movement’s influence endures today.
Northern Soul is typically associated with mid-Sixties soul music and obscure 45 singles that didn’t receive much airplay in England or America. These tracks, often uptempo with a Motown sound, have a glamorous and romantic quality, with constant, energizing beats that kept dancers moving.
Similar to later rave culture, Northern Soul enthusiasts preferred the rush of amphetamines over alcohol during their dance nights. Originating from the Mod movement, they dressed sharply, often adorning their vests with badges from their favorite clubs or ballrooms, and wore Northern Soul slogans that developed over the years.
Notable Northern Soul Musicians
Several musicians became iconic within the Northern Soul scene, even if they weren’t mainstream stars. Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons gained Northern Soul fame with their hit “The Night.” Gloria Jones is well-known for her song “Tainted Love,” and Edwin Starr made an impact with “Time.” The Showstoppers’ “Ain’t Nothin’ But a Houseparty,” Dobie Gray’s “Out on the Floor,” and Al Wilson’s “The Snake” are also Northern Soul classics.
Differences Between Northern Soul and Traditional Soul Music
Northern Soul originated in Northern England during the late 1960s, focusing on obscure, uptempo soul records from the mid-60s that often emulated the Motown sound. These tracks were highly danceable, with energetic beats and fast tempos, creating a vibrant dance culture. The movement also emphasized fashion influenced by the Mod style.
Traditional soul music, on the other hand, developed in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s, blending gospel, rhythm and blues, and jazz. It is characterized by emotional vocal delivery and expressive instrumentation, covering a broader range of tempos and themes, including love, heartbreak, and social issues. Soul music had a significant influence on mainstream culture and was a crucial part of the civil rights movement in the US.
What is the Northern Soul Movement?
The Northern Soul Movement began in Northern England in the late Sixties, where young Brits danced to obscure mid-Sixties soul records. It continues to influence music and dance culture today. Northern Soul parties and dancehalls have played a significant role in preserving and celebrating the movement’s vibrant culture. Some of the best-known venues include:
- Wigan Casino (Wigan) – Often hailed as the birthplace of Northern Soul, famous for its all-nighters and electric atmosphere.
- Twisted Wheel Club (Manchester) – Known as the first club to play Northern Soul records, laying the foundation for the movement.
- Blackpool Mecca (Blackpool) – Renowned for its progressive music policy and glamorous setting.
- Golden Torch (Stoke-on-Trent) – Famous for its energetic dance events and dedicated Northern Soul following.
- 100 Club (London) – A key venue in the capital, hosting Northern Soul events that draw enthusiasts from all over.
What type of music defines Northern Soul?
Northern Soul is typically mid-Sixties soul music, often obscure 45 singles that imitated the popular Motown sound, characterized by uptempo beats and a glamorous, romantic quality.
How did the Mod movement influence Northern Soul?
The Mod movement influenced Northern Soul through its emphasis on sharp dress and the vibrant, stylish culture that carried over into the Northern Soul scene.
Best Dancehalls of Northern Soul today
- Soulful Shack (Leeds) – Known for its lively atmosphere and passionate crowd.
- 100 Club (London) – Continues to host renowned Northern Soul nights with top DJs.
- Manchester Ritz (Manchester) – Popular for its regular Northern Soul events.
- Kings Hall (Stoke-on-Trent) – Famous for large-scale Northern Soul all-nighters.