Coffee Break: Chicago soul music -
Coffee Break: Chicago soul music
by Jill Riley and Luke Taylor
February 07, 2022
News came out over the weekend that Chicago soul singer Syl Johnson, whose song "Different Strokes" was frequently sampled in hip-hop, had died at the age of 85.
Although born in the state of Mississippi, Johnson was known for his contributions to the Chicago soul scene in the 1960s and '70s, releasing records for the labels Twinight Records — originally named Twilight Records — and Hi Records.
Johnson was one of many innovative and influential artists — including the Chi-Lites, Curtis Mayfield, Gene Chandler, the Staple Singers — who comprised the Chicago soul-music scene. For today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear by Chicago soul artists?
Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.
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Songs Played
Syl Johnson - Is It Because I'm Black
The Impressions - People Get Ready
The Chi-Lites - Have You Seen Her
The Staple Singers - Respect Yourself
The Five Stairsteps - Ooh Child
Baby Huey - Hard Times
Betty Everett - You're No Good
The Du-Tones - Shake a Tail Feather