Collecting Chicago Soul: A Guide to Rare LPs and 45s

In the vast landscape of American music, few genres capture the heart and soul of a city quite like Chicago's soul. From the early 1960s to the late 1980s, the Windy City was a hotbed of musical innovation, producing some of the most sought-after vinyl records in the world of soul music. For collectors, Chicago soul LPs and 45s represent not just a sound, but a piece of history – one that continues to captivate audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

The Golden Era of Chicago Soul

Chicago's soul scene flourished in the 1960s and 1970s, giving birth to a unique sound that blended the raw emotion of gospel with the rhythmic sensibilities of R&B. This era saw the rise of legendary labels like Chess, Brunswick, and Twinight, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Chicago's musical heritage.

Key Chicago Soul Labels to Know

1. **Chess Records**: Founded by brothers Leonard and Phil Chess, this label was instrumental in shaping the sound of Chicago blues and early soul. While primarily known for blues releases, Chess also put out significant soul recordings.

2. **Brunswick Records**: A subsidiary of Decca, Brunswick became a powerhouse in Chicago soul during the 1960s and 1970s. The label was home to major acts like Jackie Wilson and the Chi-Lites.

3. **Twinight Records**: A smaller but highly influential label, Twinight released some of the most collectible Chicago soul 45s of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

The Art of Collecting: Tips from the Experts

Collecting Chicago soul records is more than just a hobby – it's a passion that requires knowledge, patience, and sometimes, a bit of luck. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. **Research is Key**: Familiarize yourself with the artists, labels, and releases that define Chicago soul. Resources like the Numero Group's reissues and compilations can be an excellent starting point.

2. **Condition Matters**: In the world of vinyl collecting, the condition of a record can significantly impact its value. Learn to grade records accurately and always inspect before buying.

3. **Network with Fellow Collectors**: Join online forums, attend record fairs, and connect with other collectors. The community is often the best source of information and leads on rare finds.

4. **Be Patient**: Building a quality collection takes time. Don't be discouraged if you don't find that holy grail record right away.

5. **Support Local Record Stores**: While online marketplaces are convenient, local record stores often have hidden gems and can be a wealth of knowledge.

The Legacy of Bob Abrahamian

No discussion of Chicago soul collecting would be complete without mentioning Bob Abrahamian. A legendary collector and DJ, Abrahamian was renowned for his extensive knowledge and passion for Chicago's soul scene, particularly its more obscure corners.

Abrahamian's collection, amassed over decades, was a testament to his dedication to preserving Chicago's musical heritage. His radio show, "Sitting in the Park" on WHPK, became a must-listen for soul enthusiasts, featuring deep cuts and interviews with forgotten artists.

Tragically, Abrahamian passed away in 2014, but his legacy lives on through the countless collectors he inspired and the awareness he raised for Chicago's rich soul history.

The Numero Group: Preserving Chicago's Soul

While original pressings remain the holy grail for many collectors, reissue labels play a crucial role in preserving and disseminating this music. At the forefront of this effort is the Numero Group.

Founded in 2003, the Numero Group has made it their mission to excavate and reissue forgotten gems of American music, with a particular focus on Chicago soul. Their "Eccentric Soul" series has become a benchmark for quality reissues, often featuring extensive liner notes and rare photographs that provide valuable context for collectors and casual listeners alike.

Some notable Numero Group releases that Chicago soul collectors should seek out include:

- "Eccentric Soul: The Bandit Label"

- "Eccentric Soul: Twinight's Lunar Rotation"

These compilations not only offer a curated selection of rare tracks but also serve as excellent educational resources for those looking to deepen their knowledge of the Chicago soul.

Holy Grail Records: The Most Coveted Chicago Soul Vinyl

For serious collectors, certain Chicago soul records have achieved almost mythical status, commanding prices well over $1000. Here are some of the most sought-after releases:

Pastor T. L. Barrett and The Youth For Christ Choir – Like A Ship... (Without A Sail)” - One of the most sought-after Chicago Black music LPs, this youth choir record benefits from backing tracks arranged by the great Richard Evans.

The Admirations – “You Left Me / I Want To Be Free (Peaches)” - An incredibly scarce 45, this 1966 release is highly prized for its emotive vocals and moody backing. Expect to pay $3000-4000 for a copy in good condition.

Mel Britt – “Love Invented Misery / She'll Come Running Back” - is one of the most sought-after “Northern Soul” records in the world, expect to pay $3000 or so for a mint copy!

Remember, while these high-value records are exciting to discuss, they represent only a small fraction of the Chicago soul-collecting world. Plenty of incredible music can be found at more modest price points.

Beyond the Rare: Building a Well-Rounded Collection

While hunting for ultra-rare records can be thrilling, it's important for collectors to remember that its scarcity doesn't solely determine the value of a record. Many essential Chicago soul records are more readily available and can form the backbone of a great collection. Here are some artists and records to consider:

- The Impressions (Curtis Mayfield's group)

- Jerry Butler

- Gene Chandler

- The Chi-Lites

- Tyrone Davis

- The Dells

Labels like Vee-Jay, Curtom, and Dakar also released numerous classic Chicago soul records that are must-haves for any serious collection.

The Future of Chicago Soul Collecting

As we move further into the digital age, the landscape of record collecting continues to evolve. However, the allure of owning a physical piece of musical history remains strong. With its rich history and wealth of undiscovered gems, the Chicago soul scene continues to attract new collectors.

Digital platforms have made it easier than ever to research and locate rare records, but they've also increased competition. As a result, prices for the rarest Chicago soul records have continued to rise. However, this increased interest has also led to more reissues and compilations, making the music more accessible to a wider audience.

For those looking to start or expand their Chicago soul collection, the key is to focus on the music you love. Whether you're hunting for a $5000 holy grail or a $5 reissue, the joy of Chicago soul lies in the groove, the emotion, and the undeniable spirit of a city that helped shape the sound of American music.

At We Buy Records we like to say that every record tells a story – not just through its music, but through its journey from pressing plant to your turntable. Happy collecting!