Neil Rushton
“I started writing for Soul fanzines when I was teenager and was Black Echoes first staff writer when it launched in 1976. So always liked writing about the music and interviewing the music makers. The Northern soul renaissance has seen various books put out and I kept thinking I wish I had done that. Anyway last year I stopped working as consultant for the suSU label, I had been commuting to London and being a bit of workaholic on the label. That stopped when my Dad died around same time, so I decided to calm down and take some time out.
I thought I would take opportunity to write the book which I am publishing myself. I think the idea for book really works. I have interviewed people (and compiled quotes from elsewhere) going back to events from early sixties up until now and Glenn Gunton of Joe Boy records has supplied stunning graphics. I love maveriks so it was great to get quotes from people who knew Guy Stevens, a complete legend and nutcase.
I have always been fascinated by producer/songwriter/character Dan Penn, and am very pleased with the interview I got from him. When he told me how they made sure they got into the studio to observe Otis Redding producing “Sweet Soul Music” on Arthur Conley it was a bit special isn’t it? And the story of Brian Phillips, 16 years old and introducing USA imports into The Twisted Wheel, its fascinating.”
Neil Rushton
(Source: culturesofsoul.com)
