A highlight from the recent Americana Music Conference was the tribute to Muscle Shoals soul sound. Starting at FAME Studios and continuing with the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, Muscle Shoals became a rock and roll institution. Beyond defining an era in soul and R&B, it became a destination for artists ranging from the Rolling Stones to Lynyrd Skynyrd and from Paul Simon to the Black Keys.
With thanks to Twangville reader Melisa Askew, here is Mike Farris shredding Etta James’ classic “I’d Rather Go Blind.” Farris is backed by many of the talented artists who were the backbone of the Muscle Shoals sound.
I’ve also included a clip of Jimmy Hall (of Wet Willie) getting the joint jumping with a raucous take on “Land of 1000 Dances.” Hall had the unenviable task of following Farris — watch the first 25 seconds to see what Hall had to say about it.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.