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Strobe - A New Concept in Radio
"This is Strobe a new concept in radio programming". Where we resurrect underground freeform radio circa 1968-1972.
The format we use to ensure authenticity is to source actual underground FM freeform radio playlists from underground radio shows of the 1968-1972 era and play only the records they actually played. This is the undiluted real deal it's the historic and iconic sound of the underground.
Tune in here: https://newpdg2020.blogspot.com/2024/10/wild-fm-radio.html
Strobe: A New Concept in Radio – Issue #3
Cover Story: Psychedelic Soul – The Fusion of Groove and Trip
Subtitle: When Soul Took a Journey Through the Cosmic Realm
Introduction:
In the late 60s and early 70s, the vibrant rhythms of soul music merged with the mind-expanding ethos of psychedelia, giving birth to a genre rich with cosmic grooves and heartfelt emotion. Psychedelic soul brought together lush orchestration, effects-laden guitars, and socially conscious lyrics, creating a sound that was both deeply rooted and forward-looking. This genre wasn’t just a musical trend; it was a cultural statement, reflecting a time of social upheaval and transformation. Psychedelic soul provided a soundtrack to a world in flux, from civil rights struggles to anti-war protests, and it connected people through its universal message of hope, love, and resistance.
The Cultural Impact:
The fusion of soul and psychedelia was not just an artistic innovation but a reflection of a greater societal shift. Artists in this genre blurred the lines between race, genre, and culture, creating a soundscape that appealed to diverse audiences. It was music that demanded attention—uncompromising, daring, and rooted in both tradition and experimentation.
The Soundscape of Psychedelic Soul:
Psychedelic soul introduced techniques and instruments that were groundbreaking for the time. Wah-wah guitars, swirling organ lines, lush string arrangements, and pioneering use of stereo sound created immersive musical journeys. The lyrics often addressed the personal and the political, resonating with listeners on multiple levels.:
Sly & The Family Stone: With albums like Stand! and There’s a Riot Goin’ On, they became the voice of a generation.
The Temptations: Moving beyond love songs, they explored political and social themes on tracks like “Ball of Confusion.”
Curtis Mayfield: His solo work, including Curtis (1970), blended psychedelia with the struggles of the inner city.
Funkadelic: George Clinton’s brainchild redefined what soul and funk could be, injecting wild experimentation.
Tracks to Hear:
"Dance to the Music" - Sly & The Family Stone
"Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone" - The Temptations
"Move On Up" - Curtis Mayfield
"I Wanna Testify" - Parliament
The Strobe Magazine Playlist. Find all of the music from this issue here:
Subtitle: Psychedelic Soul Deep Cuts and Hidden Masterpieces
Introduction:
Psychedelic soul was more than just the hits. Dig deeper, and you’ll find hidden treasures that showcase the diversity of this fusion.
Rotary Connection – Aladdin (1968)
Overview: This Chicago-based group, featuring Minnie Riperton, created lush, otherworldly soundscapes.
Must-Listen Track: "Life Could", a dreamy blend of orchestration and soul.
Shuggie Otis – Inspiration Information (1974)
Overview: Ahead of its time, this album combines funk grooves, psychedelic guitar, and experimental production.
Must-Listen Track: "Strawberry Letter 23"—an ethereal, timeless classic.
Baby Huey & The Babysitters – The Baby Huey Story (1971)
Overview: Raw and powerful, Baby Huey’s sole album is a psychedelic soul masterpiece.
Must-Listen Track: "Hard Times"—a heartfelt, socially conscious anthem.
DJ Spotlight: Georgie Woods – The Guy with the Goods
Introduction:
Georgie Woods, affectionately known as "The Guy with the Goods," was one of Philadelphia's most influential radio DJs and a vital figure in soul music’s golden era. His smooth voice, magnetic personality, and unerring ear for talent made him a household name, not just in Philadelphia but nationwide. Beyond his contributions to music, Woods was deeply involved in civil rights activism, using his platform to advocate for social justice.
Breaking Barriers:
Woods wasn’t just about spinning records; he was about creating a movement. He introduced audiences to groundbreaking acts like The Delfonics, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, and The Stylistics, ensuring Philadelphia soul reached a global audience. He coined phrases like "The Sound of Philadelphia" and was instrumental in making Philadelphia International Records a household name.
Impact Beyond the Booth:
Georgie Woods played a pivotal role in promoting concerts and live events that brought the city’s vibrant soul scene to life. His radio programs often served as a launchpad for artists who would go on to shape the genre. He also organized events to benefit civil rights causes, using his influence to unite communities through music and activism.
A Philly Groove Playlist:
"Expressway to Your Heart" - The Soul Survivors
"La-La Means I Love You" - The Delfonics
"Only the Strong Survive" - Jerry Butler
"People Make the World Go Round" - The Stylistics
Woods’ impact extended far beyond his time behind the microphone. He bridged the gap between music and activism, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate in Philadelphia’s music history and the broader civil rights movement. His work paved the way for future generations of artists, DJs, and activists, ensuring that soul music remained a powerful force for change.:
Legacy:
Georgie Woods was instrumental in bridging the gap between music and activism, using his platform to promote not just great tunes but also social change. His influence is still felt in Philadelphia and beyond.
Era Reflections: 1969 – The Year the Counterculture Reached Its Peak
Subtitle: A Look Back at Woodstock, Altamont, and Everything in Between
Introduction:
The year 1969 was a cultural turning point. It brought the highs of Woodstock and the lows of Altamont, reflecting the changing mood of the counterculture.
Key Moments:
The Stonewall Riots: Sparked by a police raid on the Stonewall Inn in New York City, this event ignited six days of protests and clashes, galvanizing the LGBTQ+ community and marking the birth of the modern gay rights movement.
The Beatles' Rooftop Concert: On a cold January day, The Beatles performed unannounced atop their Apple Corps headquarters in London. This impromptu 42-minute set became their last public performance and a defining moment in rock history.
Chappaquiddick Incident: In July 1969, Senator Ted Kennedy’s car plunged off a bridge on Chappaquiddick Island, resulting in the death of Mary Jo Kopechne. The incident raised questions about Kennedy’s actions and forever altered his political trajectory.
Tracks That Defined 1969::
"Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" - Crosby, Stills & Nash
"Come Together" - The Beatles
"Pinball Wizard" - The Who
"Fortunate Son" - Creedence Clearwater Revival
Reader's Picks: Vinyl We Can't Stop Spinning
"The Creator Has a Master Plan" - Pharoah Sanders (Submitted by Alex in San Francisco): “Pure transcendence.”
"I’m a Man" - Chicago Transit Authority (Submitted by Mary in Detroit): “A jazz-rock masterpiece.”
"Do It Again" - Steely Dan (Submitted by Ryan in Atlanta): “A mix of groove and sophistication.”
In the Groove: Audio Gear to Get Your Groove On
Subtitle: The Best Vintage Gear for Psychedelic Soul
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Introduction:
To truly appreciate the deep grooves and lush soundscapes of psychedelic soul, you need the right setup. Vintage audio gear not only captures the warm analog sound of the era but also enhances the intricate details and deep basslines that define this genre. Here are our top picks:
Turntables:
Technics SL-1200: Known for its legendary reliability and precision, this turntable delivers smooth playback with minimal distortion. Its direct-drive motor ensures long-lasting performance, and it’s a favorite among audiophiles and DJs alike.
Thorens TD-160: A belt-driven classic with a suspended sub-chassis design, providing impeccable sound isolation and clarity. Perfect for enjoying the nuances of psychedelic soul records.
Amplifiers:
Marantz 2270 Receiver: This receiver is celebrated for its warm, rich tonal quality and versatile functionality. With 70 watts per channel, it’s powerful enough to fill a room with sound while maintaining exceptional clarity.
McIntosh MC2505: A solid-state amplifier with the iconic McIntosh blue meters, it offers a clean, detailed sound that’s ideal for revealing the subtle layers in psychedelic productions.
Speakers:
Advent Large: Renowned for their natural tonal balance and deep bass response, these speakers are a must-have for any vintage setup. They excel at reproducing the dynamic range of soulful tracks.
Infinity 2000A: Featuring electrostatic tweeters, these speakers provide exceptional clarity and an expansive soundstage, making them perfect for intricate and atmospheric recordings.
Additional Accessories:
Shure M97xE Cartridge: A high-performance phono cartridge that delivers smooth, detailed sound with minimal wear on your records.
Discwasher System: Keep your vinyl clean and static-free to ensure optimal playback quality.
With these components, you’ll experience psychedelic soul as it was meant to be heard—immersive, dynamic, and full of life.
The Guy With the Goods – A Sonic Celebration of Georgie Woods' Legacy
Step into the world of Georgie Woods, the legendary Philadelphia DJ who brought soul music to the forefront and transformed the airwaves. Known as "The Guy With the Goods," Woods introduced countless listeners to the sounds of a generation, bridging the gap between musical innovation and social change.
This carefully curated companion CD celebrates the artists, tracks, and moments that defined Woods’ career. From the smooth harmonies of Philly Soul to the raw power of socially conscious anthems, each selection reflects his ear for talent and his passion for connecting people through music.
Whether you’re discovering these classics for the first time or revisiting them as timeless favorites, this collection is a tribute to the man who helped define an era. Buckle up for a journey through the grooves, the soul, and the uncompromising spirit of Georgie Woods—because this, my friend, is The Goods.
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