Let's be real: Black folks been doing soul music since time began.
It's so annoying these labels of "firsts" and "invented" for stuff like this. I don't mind labeling someone as personifying a genre, but can there ever really be an accurate answer to "who invented soul music" or "rock and roll"?
For my money, I would crown Ray Charles as King of Soul, as he probably set the template of success. Sam wasn't any less soulful, but I would categorize him as much pop as soul...maybe.
While Ray Charles got the biopic, and he certainly isn't forgotten, I still feel like he doesn't get the shine he so rightfully deserved. Either that or my fandom is clouding my judgement.
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