The Cradle of Soul: Chicago's Record Row
In the late 1950s, a 12-block stretch of Chicago's South Michigan Avenue became the epicenter of soul music. Known as "Record Row," this area birthed a new sound that would change American music forever.

by Kevin Johnson

The Birth of a Genre
1
1955
Gospel and R&B fusion begins in Chicago's South Side churches and clubs.
2
1957
Chess Records releases early soul tracks, blending secular lyrics with gospel fervor.
3
1960
The term "soul music" gains popularity, describing the new Chicago sound.
The Players of Record Row
Chess Records
Home to legends like Muddy Waters and Etta James.
Vee-Jay Records
Launched careers of The Dells and Jimmy Reed.
Brunswick Records
Nurtured talents like Jackie Wilson and The Chi-Lites.
The Sound of Chicago Soul
Gospel Roots
Powerful vocals and call-and-response patterns from church traditions.
R&B Influence
Driving rhythms and bluesy guitar licks from the city's clubs.
Urban Polish
Sophisticated arrangements and production from Record Row's studios.
Breaking Barriers
1
Racial Integration
Record Row studios employed both Black and white musicians, fostering collaboration.
2
Crossover Success
Chicago soul artists found mainstream success, breaking down musical segregation.
3
Cultural Impact
The music addressed social issues, becoming a voice for the Civil Rights movement.
Iconic Chicago Soul Hits
The History of Record Row

13:55

Record Row Pt.1 Documentary of major Chicago Soul labels.

13:25

Record Row Pt.2 Documentary of major Chicago Soul labels.

12:30

Record Row Pt.3 Documentary of major Chicago Soul labels.

09:08

Record Row Pt.4 Documentary of major Chicago Soul labels.

07:22

YouTube

Record Row Pt.5 Documentary of major Chicago Soul labels.

The finally documentary tells the sad story of the decline of "Record Row" the heart of Chicago music industry. http://www.signaturesoundsonline.com

The Legacy of Record Row
1
Musical Influence
Chicago soul shaped the sound of American popular music for decades.
2
Industry Innovation
Record Row pioneered new recording techniques and business models.
3
Cultural Significance
The area became a symbol of African American artistic achievement.
Preserving the Memory
Willie Dixon's Blues Heaven Foundation
Located in the former Chess Records building, educating visitors about Chicago's musical heritage.
Chicago Blues Museum
Showcasing artifacts and recordings from Record Row's heyday.
Walking Tours
Guided explorations of the historic sites along South Michigan Avenue.
Documentaries and Books
Ongoing efforts to document and share the story of Chicago's soul music scene.