The RZA presents Shaolin Soul Selection: Vol. 1 (Album Sampler)

In the early ’90s, The RZA, then know as Prince Rakeem, had begun making music for his then new Staten Island (aka Shaolin) based supergroup, Wu-Tang Clan. When Enter The 36 Chambers was finally released in late ’93, the effect was seismic. The RZA’s “awkward” combination of rugged drums and off-center loops formed the foundation of a unique sound that would inspire a whole new generation of samplists, as well as set off searches for the components of those loops.

As the nature of this Shaolin style became more defined, it became clear that the sounds of the South, and in Memphis especially, seemed to hold a particular draw for The RZA and other disciples of his style. It was in Memphis that the recording studios of STAX Records were based. The records that STAX issued had a certain tone and swing that perfectly complimented The RZA’s gritty, down-to-earth style.

Shaolin Soul Selection: Volume 1 presents 24 original recordings – nearly 2 1/2 hours of essential soul music available on 2 CDs, 3 Vinyl LPs or Digital Download- from the vaults of STAX Records and its subsidiary labels that inspired The RZA and the classic sound of The Wu-Tang Clan…

Hit continue reading to listen to the album sampler & peep the tracklist, and click here to find out how to order the vinyl or CD set.

1. The Mad Lads – I Forgot To Be Your Lover

2. Isaac Hayes – Joy

3. The Dramatics – In The Rain

4. The Emotions – I Could Never Be Happy

5. The Soul Children – Don’t Take My Kindness For Weakness

6. David Porter – I’m Afraid The Masquerade Is Over

7. Booker T and the MGs – Sing A Simple Song

8. Little Milton – Packed Up and Took My Mind

9. 24-Carat Black – Poverty’s Paradise

10. Albert King – I’ll Play The Blues For You

11. The Sweet Inspirations – All It Takes Is You and Me

12. The Emotions – As Long As I’ve Got You

13. William Bell – I Forgot To Be Your Lover

14. Isaac Hayes – Ike’s Mood

15. The Soul Children – Move Over

16. David Porter – Hang On Sloopy

17. Johnnie Taylor – Steal Away

18. Albert King – Cold Feet

19. The Sweet Inspirations – Why Marry

20. The Emotions – I Like It

21. Mel and Tim – Keep The Faith

22. Isaac Hayes – Walk On By

23. Booker T and the MGs – L.A. Jazz Song

24. Judy Clay – Children Don’t Get Weary