Youtube Gold: Ray Charles doing his breakdown of “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles.

[Flash 9 is required to listen to audio.] , Michael Kiwanuka & Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys) - "Lasan" 89,129 plays

Michael Kiwanuka, a rising star in the world of soul music, and Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys team up for this beautiful exclusive track titled “Lasan”, a sleepy blues tune.

Youtube Gold: PSA from Otis Redding reminding you to “Try a Little Tenderness” today. It’ll work.

(Source: rootsnbluesfestival)

James Brown Tribute - Black Velvet

This Saturday, if you’re not heading to K&K Super Buffet with me, there will be a James Brown Tribute extravaganza at the Hiro Ballroom in Chelsea. Charles Bradley, a soul legend in his own right, will be performing as his alter-ego Black Velvet, (“James Brown Jr” with a ridiculous wig and everything), and playing hits by the Godfather of Soul all night, backed by a super tight band. Buy tickets today and they’re only $7.50. It’s gonna get funky.

Rest in Peace, Etta James. An amazing woman. Here is the late singer performing an incredible version of “I’d Rather Go Blind” with Dr. John.

Youtube Gold: Al Green broke his arm in 1974, put the busted arm in a silk sling, and proceeded to put on some absolutely amazing performances! Here’s the Reverend Green appearing on Soul Train, belting out “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)”.

Youtube Gold: Nina Simone performing an impassioned, and slightly angry, version of “How it Feels to Be Free” live in 1976.

Youtube Gold: Soul sweetie-pie Curtis Mayfield performing his hit “Superfly” (from the film of the same name) live in 1973. It’s so adorable to listen to him trying to sing tough lyrics.

[Flash 9 is required to listen to audio.] Alabama Shakes, Hold On From the album Alabama Shakes EP. 401 plays

You’ve heard from me on the Alabama Shakes already, but I really dig these folks. Here’s their cut “Hold On”; a little afternoon pick-me-up.

(Source: holysoul)

Youtube Gold: Janis Joplin wailing out “Ball & Chain” live at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. At 3:25 you’ll notice an absolutely stunned Mama Cass, staring up at Janis with her mouth open, amazed.

Youtube Gold: Ray Charles singing “Ring of Fire” on the Johnny Cash show in 1970. It’s safe to say this video will change your life.

Presenting: the Alabama Shakes and their hit “You Ain’t Alone”. I’m not sure how this lady got the spirits of Otis Redding and Janis Joplin mixed up inside her, but she gone done and did it. Damn gurl!