Flashback Soul: Joe Cocker is “Feelin’ Alright”

lmao3

Like many an English musician of his era, the late vocalist Joe Cocker had an affinity for soul, blues and R&B music.  Born and raised in Sheffield, Cocker’s early influences were Ray Charles and Chuck Berry; his energetic and passionate covers of their music eventually earned  him  the moniker “The Sheffield Soul Shouter.”  Even when Cocker rocked, he did so with soul, and his live performances were renowned for his other-worldly, spasmodic body movements, his textured, gravelly voice, and his utter authenticity. 

We feature here the track “Feelin’ Alright” from Cocker’s live album Mad Dogs & Englishmen released in 1970.  No doubt owing in part to the skill of his bandleader and pianist  Leon Russell, the track is a gritty rock/R&B hybrid with majestic, gospel-like backing vocals from Rita Coolidge and the soul artist Claudia Lennear, a former paramour of Mick Jagger, who is alleged to have been the inspiration behind Jagger’s “Brown Sugar”  and “Lady Grinning Soul” by David Bowie.  Enjoy. 

By Robb Patryk

Video

Never miss any important news. Subscribe to our newsletter.

Album of the Month

Various Artists

80s Soul Classics, Vol. 8

Choice Cut

Walter Beasley

"Come Live With Me"

Choice Cut

Paul Anthony

"Ready to Learn Your Love"

Choice Cut

Heidi Tann feat. Kinsman Dazz Band

"Island Summer"

Never miss any important news. Subscribe to our newsletter.