This little article is designed to prevent this situation from re-occurring in the future… well, the soul part anyway.
Soul refers to the black American music that was made popular in the 60's and 70's. Its roots are found in rhythm and blues as well as gospel. Some of the earliest examples of soul date back to the mid 50's. The Cincinnati based label King Records put out some of this innovative R&B with artists such as Little Willie John and James Brown & the Flames. There were others like Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, and Jackie Wilson who helped pave the way. One of the first true soul records was "For Your Precious Love" by the Impressions in 1958 and other groups followed, but soul had yet to cross over to a major commercial audience. In 1960 a young producer by the name of Berry Gordy released the first album on his own label. The song was "Money (That's What I Want)" by Barret Strong, the label was Anna Records. Gordy soon started a new label, Tamla that released the Miracle's "Shop Around," the legend known as Motown had begun. Another crucial label in soul is Stax. Founded by Jim Stewart and his siter Estelle Axton, the label was originally called Satellite, but due to legal complications, changed the name. Thousands of other entrepreneurs started their own labels, trying to capitalize on the Motown sound. These more obscure records became popular across the pond, in England, and are considered "northern soul."
Despite popular misconception in the ska scene, mainstream soul is good. Some of my personal favorites include Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, Booker T and the MG's, Sam and Dave, and Wilson Picket. You can stop by just about any local music store and pick up "Greatest Hits" packages from each of these groups. Also, the disc "Top of the Stax" or "Stax Gold," featuring well known tracks by most of the aforementioned artists.
If you're feeling British and want to get into the Northern soul scene, there's a few good comps that can help you out. Stuff on labels such as Goldmine or Kent should take you back to the days of the Wigan Casino. Albums from the "This is Northern Soul" series, are also fairly safe buys, featuring a lot of unknown Motown artist and even a few previously unreleased tracks.
An excellent way to find that cheap soul is to shop around the small used record stores in your area. Often 45's will cost under a buck. Take chances! In the worse case scenario you lose a dollar, but you may just come across a record that you'll instantly fall in love with. Hang onto those records you're not fond of, as your tastes grow and develop you may discover that you love it.
Good luck, and stay soulful!