How to Hear Soul Blues

Soul blues is one of the great styles of modern American music that was forged by musicians of electric blues, classic soul and Gospel music. Musical greats like BB King, Otis Redding and Ray Charles helped shape this singular musical genre and, in doing so, made one of the great contributions to music culture.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Listen to the roots of the music. Soul blues grew out of three primary music streams: electric blues, soul singers and Gospel music. Listen to major musicians and trends from each of these genres so you can hear the influences and soulful laments that are latent in soul blues.

2. Find recordings from soul blues greats. Albums by musicians like BB King, ZZ Hill and Bobby Bland offer the best in soul blues. You'll find that many of these singers recorded with each other or recorded different interpretations of soul blues staples. Find CDs or records of these soul blues giants to hear their great sounds.

3. Go to a concert. Fortunately, many soul blues pioneers and musicians still tour, playing shows around the world. BB King is legendary for his performances and the great Bobby "Blue" Bland is known for still putting on high powered soul blues shows. So, keep an eye out for one of these great performers to hear soul blues live.

4. Check out soul blues lounges, bars and cafes. One of the best things about soul blues is that it never gave up its preference for the local bar or lounge gig. You can catch soul blues gigs at places like the Cornelia Cafe in New York's Greenwich Village or at Brooklyn's Biscuit BBQ restaurant and bar. New Orleans is another epicenter of soul blues so visit the historic city to hear some of the most authentic soul blues in the world.