"Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin'" Songwriter David Porter, Plus Opinions on Alabama Shakes
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot interview legendary soul songwriter David Porter, about his memoir, Soul Man. He recounts his pivotal role in turning Stax Records in Memphis into one of the greatest record labels in American history. The hosts also review the new album from Alabama Shakes.
Alabama Shakes went on a long hiatus after their much-lauded second album “Sound & Color.” After a surprise show in 2024, the band began working on “I Must Be Dreaming” in January 2025. Now that it’s out, Jim and Greg are a little bit underwhelmed.
David Porter
David Porter’s memoir, “Soul Man,” is an illuminating look at a life of writing hits and topping the charts- all without leaving his hometown of Memphis. The hosts have an invigorating conversation with Porter about his early influence in the church, how he feels about being one of the most sampled artists by hip hop producers and how the Stax studio band managed to transcend the racial tensions of the late 1960s.
Featured Songs:
Sam & Dave, "I Thank You," I Thank You, Atlantic, 1968
The Beatles, "With a Little Help from My Friends," Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Parlophone, 1967
Alabama Shakes, "Another Life," I Must Be Dreaming, Island, 2026
Alabama Shakes, "Waist Deep," I Must Be Dreaming, Island, 2026
Alabama Shakes, "Tea Time," I Must Be Dreaming, Island, 2026
Alabama Shakes, "Garden," I Must Be Dreaming, Island, 2026
Sam & Dave, "Soul Man," Soul Men, Stax, 1967
Johnnie Taylor, "I Had A Dream," Wanted: One Soul Singer, Stax, 1967
Clyde McPhatter, "A Lover's Question," (Single), Atlantic, 1958
Bing Crosby, "The Old Grey Mare," On The Sentimental Side, Collectors' Choice Music, 2010
Rufus Thomas, "Cause I Love You," Walking The Dog, Stax, 1963
Sam & Dave, "A Place Nobody Can Find," (Single), Stax, 1965
Sam & Dave, "You Don't Know Like I Know," (Single), Stax, 1966
The Soul Children, "Give 'Em Love," Soul Children, Stax, 1969
Albert King, "Personal Manager," Born Under A Bad Sign, Stax, 1967
Phoebe Bridgers, "Lost Boys," Lost Weekend, Dead Oceans, 2026
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