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The Story Of Stax Records: A Journey Through The History Of Soul Music

W.H. Auden

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Published in Soulsville U S A : The Story Of Stax Records

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Stax Records is one of the most iconic record labels in music history. Founded in Memphis, Tennessee in 1957, the label played a pivotal role in the development of soul music. Stax Records was home to some of the biggest names in soul music, including Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.'s, and Isaac Hayes.

The Story Of Stax Records chronicles the rise and fall of the legendary label. The book tells the story of the label's founders, Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.'s, and Isaac Hayes, as well as the challenges they faced and the triumphs they achieved.

Soulsville, U.S.A.: The Story of Stax Records

by Tony Jones

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12161 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	418 pages

The book is a fascinating look at the golden age of soul music. It is a must-read for any fan of the genre.

The Early Years

Stax Records was founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton. The label's early years were spent recording local artists in Memphis. In 1960, Stax signed Otis Redding, who would become one of the label's biggest stars.

Redding's success helped to put Stax Records on the map. In 1962, the label released Redding's album, "Pain In My Heart." The album was a commercial success, and it helped to establish Stax Records as a major force in soul music.

In the mid-1960s, Stax Records signed Booker T. & the M.G.'s. The group's instrumental sound was a perfect fit for Stax's soul music. Booker T. & the M.G.'s released a string of hit singles, including "Green Onions" and "Time Is Tight." Booker T. & the M.G.'s and became one of the most popular soul groups of the era.

In 1967, Stax Records signed Isaac Hayes. Hayes was a talented singer, songwriter, and producer. His album, "Hot Buttered Soul," was a commercial success, and it helped to establish Hayes as a major star.

The Golden Age

The late 1960s and early 1970s were the golden age of Stax Records. The label released a string of hit singles and albums, including Otis Redding's "(Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay," Booker T. & the M.G.'s "Time Is Tight," and Isaac Hayes' "Theme From Shaft." Stax Records was one of the most successful record labels in the world.

However, the golden age of Stax Records came to an end in 1972. Otis Redding died in a plane crash, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s and Isaac Hayes left the label. Stax Records struggled to maintain its success without its biggest stars

The Decline

In the mid-1970s, Stax Records filed for bankruptcy. The label was sold to Fantasy Records in 1978. Fantasy Records revived the Stax Records name in the 1980s, but the label never regained its former glory.

The Story Of Stax Records is a fascinating look at the rise and fall of one of the most influential record labels in music history. The book tells the story of the label's founders, Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.'s, and Isaac Hayes, as well as the challenges they faced and the triumphs they achieved. It is a must-read for any fan of soul music.

The Legacy Of Stax Records

Stax Records played a pivotal role in the development of soul music. The label's unique sound was a blend of rhythm and blues, gospel, and pop. Stax Records helped to define the sound of soul music, and its artists continue to inspire musicians around the world.

The legacy of Stax Records lives on. The label's music is still played on radio stations around the world. Stax Records has also been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films.

The Story Of Stax Records is a reminder of the power of music. The label's music has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. Stax Records is a true American treasure.

Soulsville, U.S.A.: The Story of Stax Records

by Tony Jones

4.8 out of 5