You Can Be A Star! (LP)

A definitive survey of the United States’ independent soul scene during the 1970s, Soul of America is a deep dive into a rich, often overlooked era of raw, regional talent and heartfelt expression. This carefully curated collection shines a light on the small-label and self-released gems that emerged from garages, community centers, and corner studios across the countrymusic created far from the mainstream but no less powerful or inspired.

A spiritual companion to the beloved Soul Cal series, this compilation captures a time when soul and funk thrived in unlikely places, and every dusty 45 might reveal a lost masterpiece. Its a celebration of the unsung artists who poured their hearts into the groove, many receiving long-overdue recognition for the first time.

More than a collection of rare tracks, Soul of America is a vibrant portrait of the eras retro-utopian spiritwhen every record held the promise of discovery and every local band dreamed big.

Tracklist:

Luther Davis You Can Be A Star 4:37

UPC All Stars Dont Get Discouraged 3:32

Pure Essence Wake Up 6:08

Anubis Ecology 4:01

Sag War Fare Girl You Better Change 2:59

Leon Mitchison Love Is 4:17

Luther Davis Group To Be Free 3:53

Ellis & Cephas Im Gonna Miss You Girl 2:50

Clifford Nyren Keep Running Away 2:56

Mixed Feelings Sha-La-La 3:28

Henry Woods Troupe The Stranger 8:33

Freedom Express Get Down 3:24