Seems to me there has been attempts to play more modern music ever since the Mecca / Pier in the mid 70s. Post the obvious Wigan / Mecca split we had Richard at the Casino c 77 playing things like Ronnie Love, Eddie Holman, Anthony White etc. - then modern - in fact new releases. By 79 / 80 Sam, Richard etc. with those wigan things like Top Cat and James Mack & Chicago Gangsters, and tghe dreaded Casanova by Coffee.
Then the early 80s with the yorkshore scene - clifton hall, snaith, rebels etc..
I agree with Rod, when he asks what is modern soul, a 70s sound that's now over 30 years old, or something like Ron Hall from a couple of years ago? Or tracks off of the Angie Stone CD?