John Phillips Soul & His Stone Marching Band - The Soul Strut / That Memphis Thing

Year Released: 1969
Genre: Funk / Soul / Brass Band

Description:

Released on a small independent label in 1969, this 7 single captures the brassy, high-energy sound of Southern soul marching bands adapted for funk audiences. “The Soul Strut” opens with a swaggering horn riff, punchy percussion, and tight ensemble playing, evoking the street-level excitement of a parade while maintaining a polished groove.

The flip, “That Memphis Thing,” leans into gritty Southern soul with raw guitar licks, syncopated horn lines, and a driving rhythm section. Both tracks showcase John Phillips’ ability to combine brass band energy with the emerging funk aesthetic, creating music that’s both joyful and rhythmically sophisticated — perfect for dancers and collectors alike.