Richie Unterberger Explores the Evolution of '70s Soul Music at Novato Library Event

Music and history enthusiasts are in for a treat as Richie Unterberger, a San Francisco-based music historian, delves into the world of 1970s soul music at an upcoming event at the Novato Library. Unterberger, who has authored over a dozen books and taught many classes on the history of rock at the College of Marin in Kentfield, frequently shares his expertise through presentations that include rare footage and never-before-heard recordings.

Featured Soul Artists and Their Influence

The upcoming Saturday presentation by Unterberger will showcase the evolution of soul music in the '70s. Attendees will witness performances by influential artists such as Nina Simone, Sly Stone, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Curtis Mayfield. These icons are revered for pushing the boundaries of soul music, introducing intellectually and artistically challenging elements to the genre. The talk also includes discussion on reggae legends like Jimmy Cliff and Bob Marley, who brought the sounds of Jamaica to the worldwide stage during the same era.

Event Details and Book Club Connection

The program is set to take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the Novato Library, located at 1720 Novato Boulevard. This soulful journey is not only an independent event but also ties in with the Novato Library Book Club. The club's recent read, 'Another Brooklyn' by Jacqueline Woodson, is set in the 1970s—the same period explored in Unterberger's music presentation.

Why Focus on the '70s?

Unterberger emphasizes the '70s as a particularly rich era for soul music. He explains that this time witnessed the growth of African American pride and social-political empowerment, both through elected officials and activist groups like the Black Panther Party. Though it was a creative period for music, the '70s also faced challenges, such as the rise of drug abuse and limited economic opportunities, themes reflected in the era's soul music. The historian also highlights how the decade's soul music departed from the single-centric approach of the '60s, giving rise to albums that tackled a broader range of topics beyond romance and partying.

A Soundtrack That Captured an Era

Reflecting on specific works from the period, Unterberger points to Curtis Mayfield's 'Superfly' as a powerful narrative on the urban experience. He contrasts the enduring nature of the soundtrack with the film's less impactful legacy, suggesting that the music captures the essence of early '70s inner-city life and the realities of drug-related issues more effectively than the movie's plot.

music, history, presentation