Followers of the Great American Songbook are familiar with its timeless works of popular music by composers George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and others. Now, there's the Great American Soulbook.
Many of Tower of Power's horn-driven hits, some dating back to the early-1970s, are now considered soul classics. But, after a 41-year run, the group decided to take a break from their usual offering of original funk and blues to pay tribute to their own musical heroes with an album called The Great American Soulbook.
If you don't recognize Stevie Wonder's "You Met Your Match," you might have better luck with Sam and Dave's "I Thank You," featuring Tom Jones on lead vocals.
At 68, Sir Tom Jones is still in top form singing "I Thank You" from Tower of Power's Great American Soulbook.
Tower of Power comes full circle with a medley of songs by soul icon James Brown. The medley was produced by founding member and saxophonist Emilio Castillo, who credits Brown as one of his greatest musical influences.
Tower of Power's medley of James Brown songs include "It's A New Day," "Mother Popcorn," "There It Is", and "I Got The Feelin'."
The group also gives a fresh update of tunes by Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Bill Withers, Billy Paul, and Tavares.
Making guest appearances on Great American Soulbook are blues-rocker Huey Lewis, Sam Moore of Sam and Dave fame, and blues vocalist Joss Stone who teams up with lead singer Larry Braggs on the Marvin Gaye-Tammi Terrell duet, "(Heaven Must Have Sent) Your Precious Love."
