Mayer Hawthorn Takes a Stand in Bringing Back Soul
Jessica Bush — July 8, 2009 — Pop Culture
References: stonesthrow & turntablelab
Mayer Hawthorne, LA independent music label ‘Stones Throw’s’ protégé, is the latest poster boy for the revival of soul and groove music.
Growing up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, outside of Detroit, Hawthorne was fed on the rich soul and jazz history by artists of the region. His first single ‘Just Ain’t Gonna Work Out’ has such an authentic retro feel, transporting listeners to a time long gone. Hip producer Mark Ronson played the single on a radio show saying, “I have no idea what this is, old or new, but it’s f****** good!”
But this actually is a completely original and new song - written, produced, played, AND sung by Hawthorne whose vocals are so similar to some of soul’s greatest legends that it's surprising to learn that he is, in fact, a geeky-looking 29-year old white guy from Michigan!
The limited press of 1,000 heart-shaped red vinyl 45 (released for Valentine’s Day) of the single, have made him even more of a talked about musical sensation.
Growing up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, outside of Detroit, Hawthorne was fed on the rich soul and jazz history by artists of the region. His first single ‘Just Ain’t Gonna Work Out’ has such an authentic retro feel, transporting listeners to a time long gone. Hip producer Mark Ronson played the single on a radio show saying, “I have no idea what this is, old or new, but it’s f****** good!”
But this actually is a completely original and new song - written, produced, played, AND sung by Hawthorne whose vocals are so similar to some of soul’s greatest legends that it's surprising to learn that he is, in fact, a geeky-looking 29-year old white guy from Michigan!
The limited press of 1,000 heart-shaped red vinyl 45 (released for Valentine’s Day) of the single, have made him even more of a talked about musical sensation.
Trend Themes
1. Soul Music Revival - The revival of soul and groove music is an opportunity for artists and labels to tap into a nostalgic market.
2. Authenticity in Music - Creating new music with an authentic retro sound can attract fans who appreciate classic soul and jazz.
3. Limited Edition Pressings - Limited pressings of vinyl records, especially in unique shapes or colors, can create excitement and buzz among collectors and music enthusiasts.
Industry Implications
1. Independent Music Labels - Independent labels can identify and sign artists that target the growing market of consumers seeking soul and groove music revivals.
2. Music Production Equipment - Companies in the music production equipment industry can develop and market tools designed to recreate the analog sound of classic soul recordings.
3. Vinyl Record Manufacturing - Vinyl record manufacturers can offer limited edition pressings with unique colors and shapes as a way to cater to the growing collector market.
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