Many would say that the “Muscle Shoals sound†began with the founding of FAME Studios. From humble beginnings above a drug store, the studio became an institution that spawned countless legendary recordings.
A mind-blowing array of artists made the pilgrimage to Muscle Shoals to record at FAME and nearby Muscle Shoals Sounds. In the early days it was soul and R&B artists like Aretha Franklin, Percy Sledge and Wilson Pickett who made the area a hotbed for R&B; in the 1970’s bands like the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd led a Southern rock revolution from there. In between, artists ranging from the Rolling Stones to Paul Simon and Bob Seger to Jimmy Cliff have recorded some of their biggest hits in the storied studios of Muscle Shoals.
An outstanding new documentary chronicles the history in impressive fashion. It captures both the characters and character of the Shoals sound. Rick Hall, the legendary FAME founder and various members of the Swampers — the impressive musicians who backed many visiting artists and left FAME to found Muscle Shoals Sounds — appear to tell the story in their own words. Artists like Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Gregg Allman and Bono — to name just a few — share their experiences.
Here’s a preview of the Muscle Shoals documentary to whet your appetite. Seek it out to learn the history of this wonderful musical institution and to celebrate its glory.
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About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.