Album Info
| Artist: | Arthur Conley |
| Album: | Sweet Soul Music |
| Released: | Worldwide, 3 Feb 2023 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Sweet Soul Music | 2:20 |
| Written By - Otis Redding & Arthur Conley | ||
| Written-By - Arthur Conley, Otis Redding | ||
| A2 | Take Me (Just As I Am) | 2:58 |
| Written-By - Dan Penn, Linden Oldham | ||
| A3 | Who's Foolin' Who | 2:28 |
| Written-By - Arthur Conley | ||
| A4 | There's A Place For Us | 2:45 |
| Written-By - Arthur Conley | ||
| A5 | I Can't Stop (No, No, No) | 2:25 |
| Written-By - Dan Penn, Roger Hawkins | ||
| B1 | Wholesale Love | 2:16 |
| Written-By - Otis Redding | ||
| B2 | I'm A Lonely Stranger | 2:45 |
| Written By - Otis Redding & Arthur Conley | ||
| Written-By - Arthur Conley, Otis Redding | ||
| B3 | I'm Gonna Forget About You | 2:10 |
| Written-By - Arthur Conley | ||
| B4 | Let Nothing Separate Us | 3:04 |
| Written-By - Otis Redding | ||
| B5 | Where You Lead Me | 2:25 |
| Written By - Otis Redding & Arthur Conley | ||
| Written-By - Arthur Conley, Otis Redding |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Arthur Conley's "Sweet Soul Music," released in 1967, is a vibrant and infectious album that captures the essence of the soul music movement of the 1960s. Conley, who was born in 1946 in McIntosh, Georgia, is perhaps best known for his hit single "Sweet Soul Music," which became a defining anthem of the genre. This album not only showcases Conley's smooth vocals but also serves as a celebration of the rich tapestry of soul music, drawing on influences from gospel, rhythm and blues, and pop.
The title track, "Sweet Soul Music," is undoubtedly the standout song of the album. It features a catchy melody and an upbeat rhythm that makes it impossible not to tap your feet along. The song is a tribute to various soul legends, including Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, and James Brown, and it cleverly weaves in references to their music, creating a joyful homage to the genre. The infectious energy of this track helped it climb the charts, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the R&B charts, solidifying Conley's place in the soul music pantheon.
Critically, the album received positive reviews upon its release. Major publications like Billboard praised Conley’s vocal delivery and the album's production, which was handled by the legendary producer and songwriter, Otis Redding's collaborator, Allen Toussaint. Toussaint's influence is evident in the album's arrangements, which feature lush horns and tight rhythms that are characteristic of the New Orleans sound. The production quality is top-notch, making the album a joy to listen to even decades after its release.
Beyond the title track, the album features several other noteworthy songs that showcase Conley's versatility as an artist. Tracks like "Take Me (Just as I Am)" and "I Can't Stop (No, No, No)" highlight his ability to convey deep emotion while maintaining an upbeat tempo. The blend of heartfelt lyrics and catchy hooks makes these songs memorable and enjoyable. Conley’s smooth falsetto and dynamic range shine throughout the album, making it a delightful listen from start to finish.
"Sweet Soul Music" also holds historical significance as it emerged during a time when soul music was becoming a dominant force in American music culture. The late 1960s were marked by social change and a burgeoning civil rights movement, and soul music often served as a voice for these movements. Conley’s music, with its themes of love and celebration, provided a counterbalance to the tumultuous times, offering listeners a sense of joy and unity.
Interestingly, Conley’s career was somewhat short-lived, and while he enjoyed success with this album, he struggled to replicate that level of fame in subsequent years. He eventually moved to Europe, where he continued to perform and record music, but he never quite regained the prominence he had in the late 60s. This adds a layer of poignancy to the album, as it stands as a testament to a moment in time when Conley was at the forefront of the soul music scene.
In terms of awards, while "Sweet Soul Music" itself did not win any major awards, the impact of the title track has been recognized over the years, and it has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place in music history. The song has been included in various compilations and retrospectives celebrating the golden age of soul music.
Overall, Arthur Conley's "Sweet Soul Music" is a delightful album that encapsulates the spirit of 1960s soul. Its infectious rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and Conley’s charismatic vocal performance make it a must-listen for any fan of the genre. Whether you’re a longtime soul aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to bring a smile to your face and get you moving. It’s a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of soul to uplift and inspire.
