Yep, the musicians were definitely steeped in jazz traditions. As far as the geography is concerned Ijust used Detroit as a yardstick for the era. Chicago could have fitted the bill with the early Impressions stuff etc. I think trying to pinpoint a particular artist or even a particular record is difficult. I would have thought that HB Barnum, Teddy Randazzo, along with Otis Blackwell, Janie Bradford etc, could well stake a viable claim to have developed a "soul sound" . Another thread in the tapestry would be acts like Hank Ballard, Jackie Wilson, The Platters maybe they're also in with a shout?
Sure there's lots more.
Good thread.
Regards,
Dave
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