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Sam Cooke Live at the Harlem Square Club 1963: A Night of Soulful Magic

Christian Barnes

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Sam Cooke was one of the most iconic and influential soul singers of all time. His voice was smooth and powerful, his songs were heartfelt and passionate, and his stage presence was captivating. Cooke's live performances were legendary, and his 1963 album "Live at the Harlem Square Club" is considered one of the greatest live albums ever recorded.

Sam Cooke’s Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963 (33 1/3)

by Colin Fleming

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	145 pages

Recorded at the Harlem Square Club in Miami, Florida, on June 21, 1963, the album captures Cooke at the height of his powers. The setlist is a mix of Cooke's biggest hits, including "You Send Me," "A Change Is Gonna Come," and "Twistin' the Night Away," as well as some lesser-known gems like "Chain Gang" and "Bring It On Home to Me." Cooke is backed by a tight band that includes his brother Charles on guitar, and he delivers each song with passion and intensity.

The album was a commercial and critical success, and it has been praised by critics for its raw energy, its musical excellence, and its historical significance. It is considered one of the essential live albums of all time, and it is a must-have for any fan of soul music.

The History of the Album

The Harlem Square Club was a popular nightclub in Miami, Florida, in the 1960s. The club was known for its live music, and it hosted many of the biggest names in soul and rhythm and blues. Sam Cooke was a regular performer at the club, and his 1963 show was one of his most memorable.

The show was recorded by Cooke's manager, Roy Cicala, on a portable reel-to-reel tape recorder. The recording was originally intended to be used as a demo, but Cicala was so impressed with the performance that he decided to release it as an album.

The album was released on RCA Victor in 1964, and it was an immediate success. The album reached number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number five on the Billboard pop chart. It was also certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

The album has been reissued several times over the years, and it is now considered one of the greatest live albums ever recorded. It is a must-have for any fan of soul music, and it is a testament to Sam Cooke's incredible talent.

Musical Highlights

The album "Live at the Harlem Square Club" is full of musical highlights. Cooke is in top form throughout the performance, and he delivers each song with passion and intensity. The band is tight and responsive, and they provide a great foundation for Cooke's vocals.

Some of the album's most memorable moments include:

* The opening track, "You Send Me," is a rousing start to the show. Cooke's vocals are powerful and passionate, and the band provides a driving beat. * "A Change Is Gonna Come" is a powerful ballad that Cooke wrote in response to the Civil Rights Movement. The song is a beautiful and moving expression of hope and determination. * "Twistin' the Night Away" is a fun and energetic dance track that showcases Cooke's playful side. The song is a great example of Cooke's ability to connect with his audience. * "Chain Gang" is a bluesy ballad that Cooke sings with great feeling. The song is a powerful indictment of the prison system and its impact on black communities. * "Bring It On Home to Me" is a raucous gospel-infused rocker that brings the show to a close. Cooke's vocals are soaring, and the band provides a thunderous backing.

These are just a few of the many highlights from "Live at the Harlem Square Club." The album is a masterpiece of soul music, and it is a must-have for any fan of the genre.

Enduring Legacy

The album "Live at the Harlem Square Club" has had a lasting impact on soul music. The album is considered one of the greatest live albums ever recorded, and it has been praised by critics for its raw energy, its musical excellence, and its historical significance. The album has also been influential on many other artists, including Otis Redding, Al Green, and Stevie Wonder.

The album's legacy is also due to the fact that it captures Cooke at the height of his powers. Cooke was one of the most talented and charismatic singers of his generation, and his live performances were legendary. The album "Live at the Harlem Square Club" is a testament to Cooke's incredible talent and his enduring legacy.

Sam Cooke's "Live at the Harlem Square Club" is one of the greatest live albums ever recorded. The album is a masterpiece of soul music, and it is a must-have for any fan of the genre. Cooke's vocals are powerful and passionate, the band is tight and responsive, and the setlist is full of memorable songs. The album is a testament to Cooke's incredible talent and his enduring legacy.

Sam Cooke’s Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963 (33 1/3)

by Colin Fleming

4.3 out of 5