Originally Posted by
bobkayli
Hi Robb, thanks for coming back with so much detail. Remembering precise details after such a long time is never easy. The LA soul scene really does seem underrepresented in what is documented and how it is perceived today, I suppose it is hidden behind big shadows in the whole west coast 60s Rock scene and the soul world dominated by Detroit, Chicago and Memphis as it was at the time.
Your memories are precious because they give me a place to start in at least pinning down the offices and the area of North Hollywood. There are several leads which will occupy me in the long winter nights planning my trip.
Obviously Motown in LA was a different animal to the Detroit set-up and not so tied to specific buildings. so to build a picture is not so easy
A friend is giving me access to his collection of some Mowest documentation from the day which he describes as general office documentation. From there addresses and names are sure to come to provide other leads.
Another source I'm using is Northern soul 45s from the time where the smaller companies records frequently put an address on the label of the 45.
As you say these places most likely won't exist any more But to document them at least and seeing what is there today on the Internet will give other avenues to explore.
It's a labour of love but I think it's worthwhile as a part of the heritage of the music. Also it's great fun visiting these places today even if they have changed hands or been knocked down and replaced. Talking to the people who occupy them today can throw up some incredible stories as I've found in similar pilgrimages to Detroit in the past.
Any other memories that members may have would also be much appreciated.
Thanks again Robb for your insights.
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