Definition
Northern Soul refers to a style of music and subculture that emerged in the late 1960s in the north of England. The genre is characterized by its fast tempo, heavy beat, and emotive vocals. Northern Soul music primarily consists of lesser-known American soul recordings that found a passionate following among young people in northern England. The term “Northern Soul” was coined to differentiate these soul records favored in the northern “mod” clubs from the mainstream soul played in the south.
History, Evolution, Cultural Impact and Legacy
- Origin: Northern Soul’s roots can be traced back to the mod scene in the UK during the early 1960s. Mods were young people who were fond of fashion, scooters, and music, especially rhythm and blues, soul, and ska. As the mod scene evolved, clubs in the north of England, particularly in cities like Manchester, Blackpool, and Wigan, began to feature rare and fast-paced soul records from the United States.
- The music played in these clubs was mostly obscure American soul tracks that did not find commercial success in their home country but resonated with the youth in northern England. Clubs like the Twisted Wheel in Manchester and the Golden Torch in Stoke-on-Trent became legendary for their all-nighters and the unique brand of soul music they championed.
- The Wigan Casino Era: The Wigan Casino, which opened in 1973, epitomized the Northern Soul scene and became its most iconic venue. Under the guidance of DJ Russ Winstanley, the Wigan Casino held all-night dance events where attendees, known as “soulies,” danced to rare soul records until the early hours of the morning. The venue became famous for its high-energy atmosphere, athletic dancing, and passionate community of fans. The Wigan Casino was voted “Best Disco in the World” by Billboard in 1978, surpassing even New York’s Studio 54 in fame.
- Legacy and Influence: Northern Soul has left an indelible mark on British music and culture. The scene’s emphasis on discovering and celebrating rare records has influenced DJ culture and the modern music scene, fostering a deep appreciation for vinyl and the art of crate-digging. The Northern Soul movement has also been the subject of films, documentaries, and books, helping to preserve its legacy and introduce its rich history to new generations. Artists and bands, both in the UK and worldwide, continue to draw inspiration from the energy, style, and music of the Northern Soul era.
- Dance: The Northern Soul scene had a distinctive style of dance that included spins, flips, and shuffles, influenced by the American soul performances of the 1960s. The dance style is athletic, expressive, and was often performed in clubs until the early morning hours.
- Fashion: Fashion was also an integral part of the Northern Soul scene, with adherents often wearing wide-leg trousers, known as “baggy pants,” brogues or loafers, and tank tops or button-down shirts. The iconic “Keep the Faith” badge, featuring a clenched fist, became a symbol of the Northern Soul movement.
Key Characteristics
Northern Soul music is distinguished by its uptempo beats, strong bass lines, and powerful vocals. The songs often tell stories of love, heartbreak, and hope, resonating emotionally with listeners. Many Northern Soul tracks are characterized by their rarity and obscurity, with DJs priding themselves on unearthing and spinning lesser-known records. This quest for rare tracks led to a vibrant market for Northern Soul records, with collectors willing to pay high prices for coveted singles.
Northern Soul is more than just a music genre; it is a cultural movement that epitomized the youthful rebellion and passion of its time. Its legacy continues to influence music and fashion, making it a timeless emblem of the power of music to unite and inspire.