Today Marks The 58th Anniversary of The Bar-Kay’s’ Debut Studio Album “Soul Finger” Originally Released on July 10, 1967.
“Soul Finger” is the debut studio album of The Bar-Kays, released in 1967 on Volt Records.
The band released their debut single "Soul Finger”. The song peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and #17 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song was also the title track of their first album, which included nine other instrumental tracks recorded shortly after the single's release.
The band released their second single “Knucklehead” it reached #28 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and #76 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The recording of a full album began and was released in July. It was recorded by the legendary Tom Dowd and produced by staff producer Jim Stewart.
The album remains a staple of 1960s soul music with its relentless grooves and top-notch playing.
Songs like 'Knucklehead,' 'Bar-Kays Boogaloo,' and 'Pearl High' keep feet on the dance floor.
Elsewhere, the band showcased a variety of influences, such as the jazz touches in 'With A Child's Heart' and 'Hole in the Wall,' which evoke Jimmy Smith or Jack McDuff. Then there is the rock soul vibe of 'Don't Do That' and 'Theme from Hell's Angels.'
The original Bar-Kays band consisted of six members: Ben Cauley (trumpet), James Alexander (bass), Jimmie King (guitar), Ronnie Caldwell (electric organ), Phalon Jones (saxophone), and Carl Cunningham (drums).
Though all but one member of the Bar-Kays were black, Ronnie Caldwell was the only white member of the band.
The instrumental band, after being signed in early 1967, was tutored by Al Jackson, Jr. and the other members of Booker T. & the M.G.'s, which shows in the tightness of the rhythm section.
The original members of the Bar-Kays, with the exception of Ben Cauley and James Alexander, died in a plane crash on December 10, 1967.
The crash also claimed the life of soul singer Otis Redding whom the Bar-Kays served as his backing band.
Ben Cauley, the band's trumpet player, survived the crash. The band’s bassist James Alexander was on a different flight and also survived.
Track-listing
1. Soul Finger
2. Knucklehead
3. With a Child's Heart
4. Bar-Kay's Boogaloo
5. Theme from Hell's Angels
6. You Can't Sit Down
7. House Shoes
8. Pearl High
9. I Want Someone
10. Hole in the Wall
11. Don't Do That
By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology
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