Leroy Hutson and The Free Spirit Symphony - Feel The Spirit (In '76)

Leroy Hutson & The Free Spirit Symphony – Feel The Spirit (In ’76)

Year Released: 1976
Genre: Soul / Funk / Jazz-Funk

Description:
“Feel The Spirit (In ’76)” by Leroy Hutson is a lush, sophisticated blend of Chicago soul, orchestral funk, and spiritual jazz overtones. Released on Curtom Records, the album marks one of Hutson’s most accomplished works as both a producer and songwriter.

The title track, “Feel the Spirit (In ’76),” is an uplifting anthem built on layered strings, intricate percussion, and Hutson’s silky, expressive vocals. Its arrangement merges the deep grooves of Curtis Mayfield’s production style with jazz-fusion influences, creating a euphoric and expansive soundscape.

Sampling / Influence:
The record’s lush textures and deep grooves have made it a source for sampling in hip-hop and neo-soul, most notably among crate-diggers and producers influenced by the Chicago and Curtom sound. Elements of Hutson’s production style have been echoed in works by Common, The Roots, and Erykah Badu, who have all drawn from similar sonic palettes.