Soul Music in NYC: What to Expect
Contents
Looking for some great soul music in NYC? Here’s what you can expect to find!
Introduction
New York City is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, and that diversity is reflected in its music scene. There are countless genres and subgenres represented in the city’s clubs, concert venues, and radio stations. Soul music is one of the most popular genres in NYC.
If you’re planning on seeing a soul music show in NYC, there are a few things you should expect. The first is that the music will be loud. Soul music is all about energy and emotion, and it’s meant to be experienced at full volume. The second is that the musicians will be highly skilled. Soul music often features complex melodies and harmonies, so you can expect the musicians to be masters of their craft. Finally, expect to dance. Soul music is impossible to resist, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself moving your feet without even realizing it.
The History of Soul Music
Soul music is a genre that originated in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. It combines elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, and pop music. The term “soul” refers to the African-American experience of oppression and resistance.
The late 1960s saw the thriving of soul music in New York City. The genre was popularized by legendary artists such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder. Soul music helped to shape the sound of New York City during this time period.
In the 1970s, soul music began to evolve into other subgenres, such as disco and funk. The 1980s saw a decline in popularity for soul music, but the genre made a comeback in the 1990s with the help of artists like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.
Today, soul music is enjoy by people of all ages and backgrounds. If you’re looking to experience soul music in NYC, there are plenty of great venues to check out. You can expect to hear a mix of classic and contemporary soul tunes when you’re out enjoying the scene.
The Different Types of Soul Music
When it comes to soul music, there are a few different styles that you might come across. Here is a quick guide to the three most popular types of soul music:
Motown: This type of soul music originated in Detroit in the 1960s. Motown is known for its catchy hooks and danceable beats. Some of the most famous Motown artists include Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and Smokey Robinson.
Northern Soul: This type of soul music originates from the North of England and is known for its aggressive sound and fast tempo. Some of the most famous Northern Soul artists include Billy Butler and Edwin Starr.
Southern Soul: This type of soul music originates from the American South and is known for its slower tempo and bluesy sound. Some of the most famous Southern Soul artists include Otis Redding and Sam Cooke.
The Best Places to Hear Soul Music in NYC
New York City is home to a vibrant and diverse music scene, and that includes a thriving soul music community. If you’re looking for a place to hear some great soul music, here are four of the best places to check out.
The Apollo Theater: This legendary Harlem venue has been hosting live music performances since 1934, and it’s been a showcase for some of the biggest names in soul music over the years. From Aretha Franklin to Stevie Wonder, many of the genre’s greatest performers have graced the stage at the Apollo. If you’re in town on a Wednesday night, be sure to check out their Amateur Night showcase, which has been launching the careers of talented singers for more than 80 years.
The Bowery Ballroom: This intimate Lower East Side venue is one of New York’s go-to spots for live music of all genres. They’ve got a great calendar of events featuring up-and-coming soul artists from all over the world. In addition to great live music, the Bowery Ballroom also has a full bar and kitchen, so you can enjoy a delicious meal while you take in a show.
Brooklyn Bowl: This hip Williamsburg spot is part music venue, part bowling alley, and 100% fun. They frequently host soul artists as part of their eclectic live music lineup, and they also have a full bar and menu if you want to grab something to eat while you enjoy the show. Brooklyn Bowl is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends enjoying good food, good drinks, and great soul music.
The Greyhound Bar & Grill: This Midtown bar is known for its wide selection of craft beers, but they also frequently host live music performances in their upstairs space. You can expect to hear everything from folk to funk at The Greyhound, but they do have a soft spot for soul artists. If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to catch some great live tunes, this is the place for you.
The Future of Soul Music
The future of soul music is looking bright, with a new generation of artists carrying on the genre’s rich tradition. While the sound of soul music has evolved over the years, its core principles remain the same: emotive vocals, catchy hooks, and a feeling of community and togetherness.
With roots in gospel and blues, soul music has long been a staple of the American music scene. In recent years, however, soul music has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the success of artists like D’Angelo, Adele, and Sam Smith.
If you’re interested in experiencing soul music in its truest form, there’s no better place to do so than New York City. Home to some of the genre’s most iconic figures, including Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder, NYC is still very much considered the capital of soul music.
There are plenty of great places to catch a soul music show in NYC, from small clubs to large concert venues. No matter where you see it, though, you can be sure that you’ll be moved by the power and emotion of this truly special genre.
