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  • Bill Withers-The Same Love 10:14:25 2.20 PM

    Bill Withers-The Same Love 10:14:25 2.20 PM
    2025/10/14
    Photo: Columbia Records
    Usage: Wikipedia Public Domain
    Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
    Record Player effect: Pixabay.com
    Story by: Gail Nobles

    Hello, I’m Gail Nobles & you’re listening to Beneath the Hits on Soul POD Classics. Today’s topic: The Same Love That Made Me Laugh by Bill Withers.

    Alright, folks, let’s talk about “The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” by The Bill Withers, a tune that really speaks to the heart. This song is all about the ups and downs of love. You know, it can bring us joy and laughter, but it can also lead to pain and tears.

    When Bill sings about love being "like a chunk of gold," he’s saying that love is precious and hard to come by. It’s something you really cherish, but it can be tricky to hold on to. Then he brings in that image of a rose, which is beautiful and soft but can also be fleeting. When love’s gone, it creates that heartache that we all know too well.

    And oh, that chorus hits hard: “Why must the same love that made me laugh make me cry?” It’s a real reflection on how love can bring both happiness and sorrow. It’s a universal feeling—how something that once brought you joy can also cause deep sadness. Bill captured that struggle perfectly. It’s a song that connects with anyone who’s loved deeply, reminding us of love’s bittersweet nature.

    Bill Withers was a shining star during his time with Sussex Records, a cool little label based in Los Angeles that was run by the savvy Clarence Avant. Sussex came to life in 1969 and did its thing until 1975.

    You’re listening to Beneath The Hits. I’m your host, Gail Nobles


    About Soul Classic Music
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    3 分
  • Candi Staton-In the Ghetto 9:11:25 6.17 PM

    Candi Staton-In the Ghetto 9:11:25 6.17 PM
    2025/09/11
    Photo: Spotify Promo Card
    Keyboardist ending music: Gail Nobles
    Vocal: Gail Nobles
    Story by: Gail Nobles

    Hi, I’m Gail Nobles & you’re listening to Soul POD classics. The timeless power of music to evoke emotion and tell a story. Candi Staton, with her soulful voice and heartfelt delivery, brought a touching narrative to life in her 1972 rendition of "In the Ghetto." Opening with the stark imagery of snow falling on a cold, gray Chicago morning, the song immediately immerses us in a scene that is equal parts beautiful and heartbreaking.

    We meet a "poor little baby child" who enters the world under the most challenging circumstances. It's a moment filled with hope yet underscored by the harsh realities of life. As his mother cries, we feel her pain—her mixed emotions of love and struggle, highlighting an all-too-common plight for many. In just a few lines, Staton captures the weight of despair, but also the resilience that often accompanies it.

    The lyrics speak to the universal struggles of life in impoverished neighborhoods, making them connect far beyond the specifics of a ghetto in Chicago. “For if there’s one thing that she don’t need,” she sings, “it’s another little hungry mouth to feed.” This line is a gut punch. It beautifully illustrates the cycle of poverty and the overwhelming burden that too many mothers bear.

    Staton’s rendition isn't just a song; it's a call for empathy and understanding. It sheds light on the systemic issues that contribute to such heartbreaking circumstances, reminding us of the importance of compassion in our communities. So often, we hear stories like this—each with its layers of complexity and humanity—and we’re prompted to reflect: How can we contribute to change?

    "In the Ghetto" stands as a soulful anthem that transcends time, urging listeners to not only hear the words but to feel them deeply in their hearts. With Candi Staton's brilliant voice, this song becomes a touching reminder of the fragility of life and the strength found within community, love, and hope. Through her artistry, we’re invited to look closer, to be aware, and ultimately, to care. And isn’t that what great music—and great storytelling—is all about?

    I'm Gail Nobles & you're listening to Soul POD Classics.

    About Soul Classic Music
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    4 分
  • Stevie Wonders-Misstra Know It All 7:18:25 7.50 PM

    Stevie Wonders-Misstra Know It All 7:18:25 7.50 PM
    2025/07/19
    Story by Gail Nobles
    Intro Gail Nobles
    Photo by Raph_PH - SWonderBSTHyde060719-72
    Wikipedia CC BY 2.0

    In "He's Misstra Know-It-All," a highlight from Stevie Wonder’s groundbreaking 1973 album *Innervisions*, we encounter the all-too-familiar character of the “know-it-all.” The song cleverly critiques the blend of arrogance, deceit, and the superficiality that often comes with a false sense of knowledge or authority.

    The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who projects an image of wisdom, moving through life with a “counterfeit dollar” that symbolizes the illusion of value. The line “He's a man with a plan” frames this character as someone who knows how to manipulate circumstances to benefit himself, despite the shaky ground beneath him. This portrayal of “Misstra Know-It-All” reveals a charming individual whose slick methods mask the shady practices behind his perceived success.

    Wonder’s rhythmic style and melodic flow further emphasize this character's traits. The slow pace of the ballad contrasts with the main character’s frantic behavior—“Playin' hard, talkin' fast”—suggesting an urgency that hints at the fragility of someone whose bravado may be a mere front. With a steady beat, Wonder captures the listener's focus, reflecting how such personalities often monopolize conversations while drowning out genuine truths.

    The line “Makes a deal with a smile / Knowin' all the time that his lie's a mile” deepens our understanding of this character's duplicity. His calculated charm may seem appealing initially, but a closer look reveals the insincerity lurking beneath. The "smile" serves as a facade for deception, highlighting a common reality in a world populated by similar individuals driven by self-interest.

    “He's Misstra Know-It-All" acts as both a societal critique and a probe into self-awareness. By showcasing a character who embodies confidence alongside deceit, Wonder prompts listeners to ponder the nature of authority and the delicate balance between real wisdom and hollow arrogance. The song urges us to question the credibility of those we elevate and to stay alert to charlatans hiding behind the pretense of knowledge.

    Through this track from *Innervisions*, Stevie Wonder not only demonstrates his musical talent but also delves into the intricacies of human nature and the complexities of our interactions with each other.

    I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Soul POD Classics.
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    4 分
  • Aretha Franklin’s Transformative Journey 7:8:25 3.13 PM

    Aretha Franklin’s Transformative Journey 7:8:25 3.13 PM
    2025/07/08
    Story by: Gail Nobles
    Photo by: Wikipedia - Public Domain
    Voice actress: Gail Nobles

    Good evening, I’m Gail Nobles, and today, we embark on a soulful journey through the life of a woman whose voice not only captured hearts but also transformed the musical landscape: Aretha Franklin.

    .Aretha, known as the "Queen of Soul," blended gospel and blues music, creating a powerful sound that connected with many people. It was in the hallowed halls of the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, under the guidance of her father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, where the seeds of her incredible talent were sown. Starting with gospel, Aretha learned to express her innermost feelings—not just her joys and hopes, but also her struggles.

    Now, it’s important to note that her father initially held reservations about his daughter crossing over into secular music. He feared that the blues might dwell too heavily on the sordid levels of humanity, far removed from the uplifting messages of gospel. Yet, as stated in an article from *The Evening Sun* back in December of 1973, his elation at her success and her determination to make her mark in the music world outweighed any reservations. “He just felt elated over the fact that I was doing what I really wanted to do,” Aretha reflected, and we can all appreciate that gap between parental concern and artistic freedom.

    Aretha Franklin’s ability to navigate both realms of music—gospel and blues—was indeed a blessing. She brought the fervor and the passion of gospel to mainstream audiences, shining a light on its emotional depth and spiritual power. Her song writing was not merely a mechanical process; it was a dance of spontaneity and introspection. As she framed it, “Sometimes it’s easy; sometimes it’s difficult.” She didn’t just wait for inspiration to strike; she actively sought it out, creating music that spoke to her soul while collaborating with legends like Elton John and the famed Philadelphia duo of Gamble and Huff.

    What’s remarkable is how her music transcends mere entertainment; it offers a voice to the voiceless, echoing the collective hopes, heartaches, and dreams of a generation. Her journey from the sanctuary of the church to the grand stages of the world is proof of her extraordinary talent and resilience.

    So, as we listen to Aretha's timeless classics, let us remember that she wasn’t just singing. She was bridging gaps, breaking barriers, and above all, pouring her heart into every note and every lyric—a true artist in every sense of the word. As we celebrate her legacy, we find not just a musical legend, but a powerful reminder of the beauty found in blending diverse influences to create something profoundly impactful.

    Thank you for joining me on this reflective journey through the life and music of Aretha Franklin, a queen whose reign will forever echo in our hearts. Thank you for listening to Soul Pod Classics.
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    5 分
  • Global Icon-Berry Gordy 6:12:25 11.00 AM

    Global Icon-Berry Gordy 6:12:25 11.00 AM
    2025/06/12
    Photo: Wikipedia
    Usage: CC BY-SA 2.0
    Story by: Gail Nobles

    Well, let's step back in time for a moment to December 26th, 1962. Detroit, Michigan, a city humming with the energy of the auto industry and a burgeoning music scene. And there, on page 16 of the Detroit Free Press, we find a fascinating glimpse of a local entrepreneur on the rise.

    Ken Barnard, a staff writer for the Free Press, profiled a man who was quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with: Berry Gordy. Now, the headline, in those big, bold newspaper fonts of the era, proclaims him Detroit's "Record King." And the story tells us he "sold 'n' soft rock" – perhaps slightly clumsy, but undeniably enthusiastic way of describing the sounds that were emanating from his little studio on West Grand Boulevard.

    What's so remarkable is that this wasn't just another local music story. This was a glimpse of something truly special, something that would reverberate around the world. It's easy to forget now, decades later, the sheer audacity of what Berry Gordy was doing. He was building a music empire, brick by brick, fueled by talent, determination, and a shrewd understanding of the power of music to transcend racial barriers.

    And here's the best part: we *know* how this story ends, don't we? We know that "Berry," as the article calls him, wouldn't just remain a Detroit "Record King." He would become a global icon. Motown, the label he built, would become synonymous with a sound, a feeling, a generation. The music, as you said, is still with us, filling the airwaves with its infectious energy and timeless appeal.

    Think about it: Ken Barnard, that Free Press staff writer, had no idea the magnitude of what he was witnessing. He was simply doing his job, covering a local story. But he was documenting the early days of a legend. And that, in itself, is a powerful reminder of the importance of journalism in capturing the moments that shape history, even when we don't realize it at the time. It's a wonderful little time capsule, this clipping from the Detroit Free Press, a reminder of the power of local talent, the enduring appeal of Motown, and the fascinating way newspapers can connect us to the past.

    I’m Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening.
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    4 分
  • JB-His Record Label Empire 6:2:25 2.58 PM

    JB-His Record Label Empire 6:2:25 2.58 PM
    2025/06/02
    Intro by: Gail Nobles
    Story by: Gail Nobles
    Photo: Wikimedia Public Domain

    JAMES BROWN!
    The Hardest Working Man in Show Business, the Godfather of Soul, Soul Brother Number One! He was a singer, he was a *force* of nature, a *movement*!

    He started out at King Records back in '56. King gave him the launchpad, and he blasted off! But the man was too big to be contained. He had a vision, a sound, a *funk* that needed to spread like wildfire!

    He started *Try Me Records* back in '63, under the watch of King honcho Syd Nathan. Named after his own chart-topper, it was meant to showcase the talent burnin' in his own revue. We're talkin' the Poets, Johnny and Bill from the Famous Flames, and even a young lady named Tammy Montgomery, who'd later become the incredible Tammi Terrell over at Motown! But that venture got sidelined when the big man had a tussle with King over his contract in '64.

    But JB? He don't stay down for long!

    Then came *Brownstone Records* in '70, a partnership with the sharp cat, Henry Stone. It was a place for his folks from the Revue that King wasn't giving a chance, like Bobby Byrd and the mighty Vicki Anderson. A quick shot of soul, but it was just a prelude to somethin' bigger!

    And then, BAM! The main event! *People Records* in '71! This was *his* kingdom! A platform to unleash the raw talent he was surrounded by: Lyn Collins, Bobby Byrd again, Sweet Charles, and the infamous J.B.'s! He even jumped in himself, layin' down organ licks and background vocals.

    It started out under King's wings, but Brown, he knew he needed more! So he signed with Polydor and took People Records with him. This was the real deal! A string of hit records, including the earth-shaking' "#1 R&B hit 'Doing It to Death!'"

    But, like all good things, People Records eventually folded in '76, right around the time the J.B.'s started slippin' away. Still, the music lived on! Polydor put out those *James Brown's Funky People* compilations, three CDs of pure, unadulterated funk.

    So, what's the moral of the story? James Brown wasn't just makin' records, he was buildin' an empire! He gave opportunities, he pushed boundaries, and he showed the world what raw, unadulterated soul was all about.

    And that, friends, is how James Brown built his funky legacy. Now go put on some JB and GET ON UP!

    I’m Gail Nobles and you’re listening to Soul POD Classics!
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    4 分
  • Afia Mala 5:11:25 8.30 PM

    Afia Mala 5:11:25 8.30 PM
    2025/05/12
    Photo: Spotify Promo
    Intro: Gail Nobles

    Tonight, we're takin' a trip across the big pond, all the way to the vibrant heart of Togo, because I've got a story that'll have you boppin' in your seats!
    This is the story of the *one and only* – AFIA MALA!

    Now, back in '74, this young lady, she was *cookin'*! Straight outta Vogan, she was crowned the Best Togolese Singer of the Year! Yeah, you heard me right! You could feel the earth movin' under her feet, success written all over her!

    Life threw a curveball so hard, it almost knocked her right out of the park. A near-fatal traffic accident. Six long months in the hospital... talk about a downer! Her pops, bless his heart, thought her days of swingin' to a beat were done. He figured it was time for somethin' else, somethin' *safe*. Music was over!

    BUT DESTINY HAD OTHER PLANS!

    Fast forward to 1984. A decade later, the magic was still there! Radio France International, that's the big time overseas, was holdin' a talent competition called "Discovery." And guess who blew the roof off the place? Our girl, Afia Mala! Her song, "**Ten Homte (Black Earth)**", it connected with the people. I'm talkin' chills down your spine, tears in your eyes kinda stuff! The listeners voted it their *favorite*! That was her sign! That was the green light!

    And she took off like a rocket! Eight albums later, this "Princess from Vogan" (and that's what they call her!) she’s holdin' court with the queens of African music! She's standin' tall, singin' loud and clear!

    And let me tell ya somethin' else! In 1989, she dropped an album called "Desir" with a killer track called "**Koma**".

    I'm Gail Nobles, and you're listening to Soul POD Classics.
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    2 分
  • Sir Mack Rice-Muhammad Ali 5:6:25 7.23 PM

    Sir Mack Rice-Muhammad Ali 5:6:25 7.23 PM
    2025/05/06
    Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
    Story by: Gail Nobles
    Photo: Public Domain Wikipedia

    Today, we’re talking about a real soulful brother who had a pen and a voice that could move mountains: Sir Mack Rice! Yeah, that's right, the man behind "Mustang Sally," that scorchin' slab of soul that gets everyone swingin' their hips! AND, he co-wrote "Respect Yourself," a message we ALL need to hear.

    But hold on, there's MORE to the story! Seems like our Sir Mack dug deep into the heart of another legend: Muhammad Ali! That's right, The Greatest of All Time, gets the soul treatment on a record put out on the May Day label back in the 70s.

    Let's break down some of the lyrics. Sir Mack ain't just singin' about a boxer. He's preachin' about a MAN:

    “Muhammad Ali known world Wide. For his prediction. No turn aside..."*

    He knew his worth! The man could see the future in the ring and wasn't afraid to tell the world about it! No hesitation, no backin' down.

    “He would look into a man’s eyes. He got a whole lot of pride..."*

    Those eyes saw straight through you! Ali carried himself with a power and a confidence that was undeniable. Pride in himself, pride in his people.

    “Every time he step into the ring he got power on his side. He’s a warrior for the people. He’s a champion..."*

    This ain't just about knockouts. This is about standin' for somethin'! Ali was a warrior for his beliefs, for his community. He was a champion in the ring AND outside it. Sir Mack's capturing that spirit, that fight, that raw, untamed POWER!

    A soulful tribute to a legend, written by another legend, Sir Mack Rice. This tune's more than just a record! It's about the power of pride, the strength of conviction, and the undeniable soul of the one and only Muhammad Ali! Now go out there and be a champ yourself! Keep those records spinnin'! Keep those songs playing.

    Gail Nobles, podcasting off! Thank you for listening to Soul POD Classics.
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    3 分