Take Me to the River

In TAKE ME TO THE RIVER, actor and musician Terrence Howard guides us through a tour of American soul music. At the heart of the film is Memphis, Tennessee and the amazing recordings from the legendary Stax Records in the 1960s. Beyond the tunes, this documentary also reveals the important role Stax Records played in the civil rights movement. The label and studio may be known for its African-American stars. However, it also featured a racially diverse stable of artists and crew – something unheard of at the time. The film doesn’t just focus on the past, though. In addition to highlighting the soul movement, it goes behind the scenes at a series of recording sessions that pair legends of soul with some of today’s popular and rising stars. The list includes William Bell, Mavis Staples, Snoop Dogg, and Yo Gotti, to name a few. These collaborations provide further proof of the impact Stax Records and soul music has had on our country’s rich musical history. This incredibly illuminating documentary is a must-see for any music fan or historian. – E.F.