Just What Is Crossover Soul?
Well, I guess it all depends on who you ask! Here is the definition offered up by much respected DJ, collector, label owner and Crossover Soul guru Sean Hampsey....it is also the definition I most closely subscribe to:
The term 'Crossover Soul' was first used over here by Voices from the shadows main man Rod Dearlove. Rod ran an event at the Canal Tavern, Thorne which focussed on playing records that could neither be described as traditional “Four beats to the bar” Motown-type dancers nor big production 70s dance records previously described as “Modern” on the Northern scene. The records played at this venue were typically more mid-tempo, usually with an outstanding soulful vocal.
These records had not really gained mass favour on the UK 'Northern' scene as they weren't 'typical' Motown styled 60's sounding records.
Nor had they been well received on the 'Modern' scene as they weren't obviously dance-able or instant enough for the modern crowd.
These were records produced between 1968 and 1972 when production techniques were changing. In other words a 'crossover' period between the 1960's and the 70's.
The term 'Crossover Soul' in the UK 'Soul Scene' sense does not refer to music that 'crossed over' from the R&B charts to the mainstream charts as is often heard referred to by American artists.
Typical 'Crossover Soul' records that have gone on to be considered classics of the genre would include:
(None of these records above are included in set and are shown as an example only)they have never been categorised as either 'Northern' or 'Modern' soul but the are gaining a following from discerning soul fans.
Enjoy
ty Dj
northern at its best nice work Al
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