First Wave Soul Music
The Original 1958-1964 (give or take a little)
The Soul Twist Band derives its name from the seminal King Curtis hit instrumental, "Soul Twist". Originally issued in 1962 on the "Enjoy" label, the hit version featured King Curtis & The Nobel Knights.
Soul Twist - The Band
Soul Twist members know their stuff -- all having played this music for years.
The band is led by Kansas City Hall of Famer, Jim Stringer on guitar; vocals are delivered powerfully by "Uptown" Alan Barnette; tenor sax is carried by Jack Paine, former member of Larry Lange's Lonely Knights; and multi-talented keyboardist, David Webb, alum of Jimmy Lafave's band, adds piano and organ.
The all important rhythm section consists of funky drummer, Johnny Mac, and the solid foundation of bassist, Carl Keesee.
The band concentrates on this "first wave" soul music... highly dancable, intense, and memorable... music that's only one step removed from its gospel roots... rock and roll, blues, rhythm and blues all wrapped into one.
Facts of the Day
The guitar chair for the track, "Soul Twist" was held by Cornell Dupree, another familiar name in First Wave Soul Music.
Barrett Strong scored Motown Record's first hit, "Money (That's What I Want)", in 1960. Written by Motown founder, Barry Gordy and Janie Bradford, the song was released on the subsidiary, Anna Records.