About This Footage
In a dusty corner of YouTube, a rare gem has been unearthed: "So In Love" by Barbara Brown, a 3:01-minute clip from 1965 that offers a glimpse into the lesser-known world of soul music in the mid-20th century.
At this time, Motown was still riding high on its string of hits, but other labels were also churning out their own brand of soul and R&B. Carnival Records, based in New York, was one such label that released "So In Love" by Barbara Brown in 1965. Written by Edward Bivins, a member of the Manhattans, this song is a beautiful example of the soul sound that was emerging in the mid-60s.
What makes this clip so notable is its rarity. Unlike many other clips from this era, "So In Love" has been preserved and made available for public viewing. This is all the more remarkable considering the artist herself, Barbara Brown, went on to have a long and successful career as a percussionist with The Funk Brothers, Detroit's session musicians who backed most Motown recordings from 1959 to 1972.
Edward James "Bongo" Brown, as he was known, was an American percussionist who brought his unique style and energy to the music of Motown. His work can be heard on countless classic hits, including Marvin Gaye's "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and Stevie Wonder's "Fingertips (Part 2)". But what is less well-known is that Brown got his start in the music industry as a singer, recording several sides for Carnival Records in the mid-60s.
"So In Love" itself is a sweet, melancholic ballad that showcases Barbara Brown's soulful vocals. The song's writer, Edward Bivins, was a member of the Manhattans, and his influence can be heard in the song's lush harmonies and sweeping orchestration. The clip itself is a simple, yet effective, presentation of the song, with Brown singing and playing piano accompanied by a small ensemble.
For viewers who are familiar with the Motown sound, "So In Love" will offer a fascinating glimpse into the lesser-known world of soul music in the mid-20th century. For those new to the genre, this clip provides an excellent introduction to the era's unique blend of R&B and pop. And for fans of Barbara Brown himself, this clip is a rare treat that offers a glimpse into his early days as a singer.
As we watch "So In Love", we are reminded of the rich musical heritage that has been preserved and passed down to us through the ages. This clip may be small in scale, but its significance is immense. It serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend time and circumstance, and to the enduring legacy of artists like Barbara Brown who continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
The final shot of "So In Love" lingers on Barbara Brown's face, her eyes closed in concentration as she sings out the final notes. It is a moment that stays with you long after the clip has ended, a reminder of the beauty and emotion that lies at the heart of this rare and precious footage.
Curated from public records and music databases.
