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Timeless tracks and unforgettable artists that have shaped the landscape of soul music. Each episode dives deep into the rich history, cultural impact, and emotional resonance of soul classics that...
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Timeless tracks and unforgettable artists that have shaped the landscape of soul music. Each episode dives deep into the rich history, cultural impact, and emotional resonance of soul classics that have inspired generations.
By Gail Nobles © 2025
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By Gail Nobles © 2025
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5 APR 2025 · Thank you for listening to the https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/soul-pod-classics--6509237Podcast! A special shoutout to our listeners in Canada, who are among our top supporters, along with listeners from many other countries.
Transcribed
5 APR 2025 · Intro by: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles
Cover Art by: Gail Nobles
We’re taking a trip back to the vibrant disco-infused soul of the early '70s, all wrapped around a song that’s got a groove that'll make you move! I'm talking about "I'm Doin' Fine Now" from the sensational American R&B group New York City. Released in 1973 from their debut album – the same name, don’t ya know – this tune soared into the hearts of listeners, reaching number 17 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
If you’ve ever had your heart stomped on, this is *the* song for you. The opening lines hit like a ton of bricks: "Remember the day you up and left, I nearly cried myself to death." Can’t you feel that pain? That longing? It’s like a trip down memory lane, taking us to a place where love was both sweet and sour. But hold on, because the magic doesn’t just lie in the heartache. The groove picks up as the narrative unfolds—a meeting with someone new, and boy, doesn’t she change everything? Suddenly, our narrator claims, “Oh girl, I’m doin' fine now, without you, baby.”
It’s all about that resilience! This song captures the moving on and finding that hope again. The harmonies? Tight as a drum! The instrumentation? Jiving and alive! The energy of this track is contagious, and it spread like wildfire across the charts! It was even the 46th most successful song of 1973 in the good ol' US of A.
With the smooth melodies bouncing off the walls, it's no wonder the song found its way into the hearts of so many, hitting number eight on the Billboard Easy Listening chart. So whether you’re reminiscing or ready to groove, "I'm Doin' Fine Now" is the anthem you need. It’s a celebration of moving on. So feel the groove, and remember, sometimes you gotta let go to find your flow. Keep it real, my friends!
I'm Gail Nobles, and you're listening to Soul POD Classics.
Transcribed
1 APR 2025 · Photo: Wikipedia Public Domain
Intro by: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles
We’re about to take a shimmering trip through the vibrant world of music! Get ready for a little discussion on a groove that flew into our hearts and minds like a hot butterfly—yes, I’m talking about "Papillon," also known as "Hot Butterfly," from the dynamic Gregg Diamond!
First off, let me set the stage. This track first fluttered into existence in 1978, debuting on Diamond's album *Bionic Boogie*. It was the 1980 version by the one and only Chaka Khan that truly lit the musical landscape on fire! This beauty features the smooth, rich vocals of R&B legend Luther Vandross—oh, when those two got together, they conjured magic!
Chaka Khan’s rendition of "Papillon" just screams seduction. It takes you back to a time when love was sweet and young, painted with the colors of youth—a time when we all felt like we were soaring on gossamer wings, just like those butterflies! You hear that harmonica solo by Hugh McCracken? It’s like a gentle caress, a reminder of the summer breezes that come and go too quickly.
Let’s not overlook the lyrics! "A faded photograph I mailed to you / With feelings I don't want to face"—can’t you just feel the longing and the bittersweet nature of memories? Chaka’s voice wraps around those words like a comforting embrace, evoking emotions that we often try to hide away.
I know it peaked at #22 on the Billboard R&B charts, but don’t get it twisted! It doesn’t tell the whole story. The song is a testament to Chaka Khan’s unmatched talent and the timeless connection her music makes with all of us. It reminds us of the seasons of love, the moments that slip by, and how sometimes we let things “slide on by” before we fully realize their value.
So, whether it's the original groove by Diamond or the soulful magic spun by Chaka Khan, "Papillon" is a fantastic celebration of love, life, and the fleeting beauty of those memories. It leaves you humming and dreaming, captivated by the elegance of a hot butterfly in flight! Keep on groovin’!
You're listening to Soul Pod Classics. I'm you're host, Gail Nobles
Transcribed
17 MAR 2025 · Intro by: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles
Let’s get into a classic treasure from the heart of the funky universe! Yes, indeed, I'm talking about the sensational Archie Bell and the Drells and their infectious groove from 1976—"Don’t Let Love Get You Down!"
Now, if you’ve ever found yourself on that rollercoaster ride of love, feeling bruised and battered, trust me, this soulful jam is your anthem! Right from the start, Archie’s smooth vocals take you on a journey. He opens up with a heartfelt message—reminding us all that heartbreak is a universal experience. “I know that you've been hurt by love, once before…” Can you feel that sincerity? It’s like he’s speaking right to your soul!
This is the sort of track that not only gets your feet tapping but also lifts your spirits. Listen closely to the lyrics—it’s a call-to-arms against self-pity! The line "Girl just don't sit around, feelin' sorry for yourself" is the kind of encouragement we all need when love leaves us feeling low. Archie urges you to rediscover your strength and warmth: “Just give your love, to somebody else.” That’s the magic of the moment right there, folks!
And let’s talk about that groove! The rhythm hits you, wrapped in a sweet melody that’s unmistakably Bell and the Drells. You can't help but sway along as those horns blast and the bass line glides through! It’s contagious, and you just want to dance—shake off the blues!
Every time that catchy refrain comes in—“Don’t let love get you down”—it feels like a burst of joyful energy. It's the spirit of resilience! They remind us love may knock us down, but it’s all about getting back up and seeking that love again, that feeling of connection that makes life so rich.
So, take a moment, and play "Don’t Let Love Get You Down," let it wash over you, and let Archie Bell and the Drells lift you high. Whether you're in love, out of love, or somewhere in between, there's always a reason to get back out there and let your heart shine! Keep that groove alive, my friends!
I'm Gail Nobles & you're listening to Soul Pod Classics.
Transcribed
15 FEB 2025 · Story by: Gail Nobles
Hello everyone. Turn up the volume high, 'cause we’re groovin’ to the sound of the sensational Jackson Sisters! That’s right, we’re talkin’ about the fantastic five from Compton who blew up the soul and disco scenes in the 70s, not to be confused with any ol' Jackson families—these sisters are a whole vibe of their own!
Their journey is one for the record books! Formed back in 1971 and rooted deep in the vibrant soil of Detroit, these ladies brought — not just music — but a sound, a truth, a groove that shook dance floors and stirred souls! You might’ve caught a glimmer of their glittering talent on Prophasy Records, with hits that got folks movin’ and groovin’!
Their magic really ignited when the rare groove scene exploded over in the UK a decade later! It was like someone flipped a switch and the world caught on to the electrifying energy these sisters brought forth!
Let’s talk about that smash hit, “I Believe in Miracles.” Oh, baby! Written by the talented Johnny Bristol and originally penned by Mark Capanni, this track became an anthem, a declaration of faith in love, life, and those unforgettable dance moments! You know the lyrics: *"Oh, I believe in miracles!"* That infectious, soulful melody can bring a tear to any eye and make even the most reluctant feet start tapping!
Can you feel that groove? Can you hear the harmonies? That blend of voices creates a tapestry that tells stories of joy and hope—music that transcends time! And just when you think you’ve caught every note, they throw in that sweet call for a little love! *“So come on boys, show a little love for me!”* Love and music, hand in hand, uniting us all on the dance floor!
So remember to give a nod to the Jackson Sisters! They’ve paved the way, rocking our worlds with their infectious groove and enchanting melodies. Keep the spirit alive and let their music remind you that we’re all part of this miraculous journey together!
You’re listening to Soul Pod Classics. I’m your host, Gail Nobles.
Transcribed
6 FEB 2025 · Story by: Gail Nobles
It’s time to take a little trip down the soulful lane, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this ride! Let’s talk about Gwen McCrae, the queen of the groove, who took K.C. and the Sunshine Band’s classic “Please Don’t Go” and turned it into an absolute masterpiece!
When Gwen opens her mouth to sing, you can feel the electricity crackling in the air! That voice of hers is a an instrument and force of nature! She pours every ounce of her soul into that song, making you feel every word like it’s written on your own heart. You can hear the heartache, the longing, and the passion coming through every note. It’s like she’s reaching out to you, pulling you into her world of rhythm and blues!
And let’s not forget about that power! Gwen doesn’t just sing; she commands the stage. Her delivery is dripping with emotion, giving a whole new layer to the track that’s both tender and fierce. You can just hear the tears and triumph, the sweet surrender and the raw intensity.
So,, if you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing Gwen McCrae’s rendition of “Please Don’t Go,” I urge you to listen and let her voice take you on a journey. It’s a soulful sensation that you’ll want to savor and share with everyone you know.
I’m Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Soul Pod Classics.
Transcribed
3 FEB 2025 · Photo: Public Domain Wikipedia
Intro: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles
Lend me your ears, because we're about to dive into a soul sensation that’ll get your feet tapping! I'm talking about none other than Wilson Pickett's powerhouse track, "Engine No. 9." This song rides the rails of rhythm and blues straight into the hearts of listeners everywhere!
Released as part of Pickett's eleventh studio album, Wilson Pickett in Philadelphia, this track truly embodies the soul spirit of the late '60s. It was released in 1970. It's a full-blown freight train of funky vibes and captivating grooves! With a crack team of musicians behind him and those unmistakable horns blazing, Pickett delivers a vocal performance that can only be described as electrifying!
Now, let’s talk numbers, and boy do they mean something! "Engine No. 9" peaked at #14 on the Pop charts and climbed even higher, hitting #3 on the R&B charts. The man didn’t just ride the train—he was driving it! This track grabbed listeners by the collar and made them take notice, and it’s easy to see why. It’s got that infectious bounce, that catchy hook that gets stuck in your head, and Pickett's voice? It’s like a siren call, welcoming you to join the party!
What I love about “Engine No. 9” is how it combines that classic Southern soul with a distinct Philly flair. You can hear the smooth production, the slick arrangements, and it all comes together for a listening experience that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze. And let’s not overlook those lyrics—simple yet storytelling, full of energy and that unmistakable longing that makes soul music connect with us.
So, crank up those speakers, folks! Let the smooth sounds of Wilson Pickett pour into your ears, and you’ll find yourself riding the rails of emotion, with “Engine No. 9” as your conductor! This track is more than just a hit—it’s a journey through the core of soul music that we all need to take.
I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Soul Pod Classics.
Timeless tracks and unforgettable artists that have shaped the landscape of soul music. Each episode dives deep into the rich history, cultural impact, and emotional resonance of soul classics that...
show more
Timeless tracks and unforgettable artists that have shaped the landscape of soul music. Each episode dives deep into the rich history, cultural impact, and emotional resonance of soul classics that have inspired generations.
By Gail Nobles © 2025
show less
By Gail Nobles © 2025
Information
| Author | Gail L. Nobles |
| Organization | Gail L. Nobles |
| Categories | Music Commentary |
| Website | - |
| nobles123@live.com |
Copyright 2025 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
