The Sound of Philadelphia! Arguably one of the greatest sounds in the history of soul music, singer/songwriters Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff started TSOP Records in the early ’70s releasing a tidal wave of impassioned and fun albums, often dealing with the social injustice happening in their world (and also love). The Roots and John Legend, one their upcoming Wake Up, are focusing more on gritty protest songs of soul in the ’70s. "Wake Up Everybody," featuring Common and Melanie Fiona, is a cover of the Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes' classic song. The new version's got a surprisingly similar warm shimmer, though the Blue Notes never employed a rapper—though duel soul/rap songs didn't really exist in 1975. Times have changed. Then again, they haven't.
TAKEN DOWN AT THE REQUEST OF UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP
Download: The Roots + John Legend f. Common and Melanie Fiona, "Wake Up Everybody"
