At my local thrift store, I found a sealed copy of the 2 CD compilation called Night Train To Nashville: Music City Rhythm & Blues 1945-1970.
Having lived in Nashville for over twenty years now, it was refreshing to find a compilation of R&B hits from the city rather than the usual country comps.
What I didn’t realize is that Night Train was a TV show produced locally by WLAC here in Nashville that featured live performances, predating Soul Train by several years. Evidently the station was only able to shoot in black and white.
This episode is 49 minutes of wonderful R&B/soul performances from 1965 here in Nashville. What a joy.
It also features a great performance of Walking the Dog by Jackie Shane, an artist I was unfamiliar with until the wonderful Numero Group released a compilation of her hits, Any Other Way. Highly recommended.
Also, while you’re here, enjoy Cecil Gant’s song, Nashville Jumps!
Aaron Hartley 