Various Artists - The Original Sound Of Detroit (1967) LP Speciality ( 1995) CD Fat Boy - Rare Soul (FLAC)

At the time, booming Detroit was often referred to as “the Paris of the West,” praised for its picturesque broad river, wide boulevards, Grand Circus Park, and the architectural delights of its buildings, including the Central Train Depot, Masonic Temple, Institute Of Arts, Guardian Building and Fisher Building, with the Fox Theatre being the mecca to worship at its musical alter. Despite its visual attractions, Detroit has always been gritty as well as glamorous. “There are cities that get by on their good looks, offer climate and scenery, views of mountains or oceans, rockbound or with palm trees. And there are cities like Detroit that have to work for a living,” said crime novelist Elmore Leonard.As Michigan born Henry Ford grew his automobile dynasty in the early 20th Century, the Paris of the West gradually became Motor City. For decades, Detroit was the assembly line for most of the world’s automobiles. There were hundreds of car factories, including top plants by Ford, Hudson, Packard, Studebaker, Chrysler, and General Motors. Oscar winning director Francis Ford Coppola was not only born in Henry Ford Hospital, he received his middle name as a tribute to the carmaker: Coppola’s flautist father, assistant orchestra director for The Ford Sunday Evening Hour radio show, wanted to honor a generous sponsor of classical music. Here we have a fantastic history of the Motor City and the early records that came to prominence via the stubborn digging of UK soul fans who couldnt get enough of that great citys sound. Most have gone down in legendary status as soul club/northern classics. Featured here is my own favourite...The uncrowned Queen Of Detroit Soul Bettye Lavett....This is really a greatest hits of the legendary Lu-Pine label...OH YEA!

AMM

                                                                 The Mighty Tasters!