Bman's Blues Report

I've been listening to the new recording set for release June 26, Northside Soul , by Marion James . Seven of the 13 tracks included on the release are original. James began in the business in the 60's having a hit single, That's My Man in the Billboard Top Ten in 1966. Marion returned to recording in the 90's and this, her third release since then is a pleasure to listen to. James sings with confidence and although my copy is so preliminary, the musicians aren't noted, backing vocals and the backing instrumentation is very strong. This recording, produced by bassist Tod Ellsworth, has strong components of soul, funk, blues and gospel making for a nice mix. Smokin' Hot has a great funky groove with horns and a real clean extended guitar solo. Corrupted World , a strong soul infused blues number and one of the best track on the recording. The backing vocalists set a nice palate to showcase the main artist and the guitar is tasty but not in your face. Crushing M...

Born and raised in Nashville, Marion James grew up in a family with a love for music. Like most great R&B singers, Marion's musical background is firmly rooted in the church. As a child, James first experience with blues music came from watching vaudeville shows, checking out local performers or listening to her mother's record collection of 78s. During the early 1960's, Marion's touring band included guitarist, Jimi Hendrix, and bassist, Billy Cox. In 1966, she recorded the top-ten hit "That's My Man" for Nashville's Excello Records. Since then, Marion has played to sold-out audiences in Europe and the Southeastern United States. Recently, she was part of the Country Music Hall of Fame exhibit "Night Train to Nashville: Music City Rhythm & Blues 1945-1970" covering the rich R&B music history of Nashville. Write on our Facebook Wall or post your Photos of great blues events! -  Here