Chicago Soul
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This has to be one of the most comprehensive books I have ever read. I cannot imagine anyone ever having a question about Chicago Soul to which the answer could not be found within its pages. It covers just about every artist, big or small, every producer, every record label and every A&R man to operate out of the city. There is even a chapter dedicated to Black Chicago Dances. The danger with cramming so much into one book is that it could become disjointed, but with this publication it is not the case. The information about the artists for example is put into context by looking at their work with each individual label. The opening chapter is all about the birth of soul within Chicago whilst the last is about its demise. Pruter not only gives his text a historical context but also a geographical one as well by including maps of the city with the positions of recording studios marked. His writing is also handsomely illustrated with photographs of the artists. As in many publications of this nature these come in small batches which appear sporadically throughout. The research which went into this book must have been enormous because of the detail with which each topic is covered. The author lists his sources at the end of every chapter and despite the fact this is an American book it is indicative of how influential Great Britain has been in preserving the Black American Legacy by the number of references to 'Blues and Soul'. Apart from devotees, most British People would consider Soul Music to be popular culture. This does not appear to be true in America however as the publication is sponsored and published by the University of Illinois. Quite rightly they believe soul music is a part of their history, their culture and their art and give it the serious treatment it deserves. I'm glad to say Robert Pruter does not let them down with this informative, thoroughly researched and well written text.
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Why Not visit the Authors other Website, 'The Alternative Blackpool Website' at http://www.localdial.com/users/jsyedu133/bpool This Site Last Updated 18/05/05
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