If I'm working at my desk on a weekend night, I try to listen to an old American Top 40 show online. You can find them, typically broadcast live on stations around the country.

Tonight's 1970s Top 40 came from this week in 1970, meaning I would have been 16 days old the week this Top 40 was broadcast. I'm always surprised listening to these old shows how many great songs I had never heard of. Take this one from Clarence Carter, called "Patches."

It's one of those quintessential 1970s blues, soul songs with an emphasis on story. Reminds me a little of the work The Temptations released around this time.

However, I have to say. I always thought Clarence Carter was merely the guy who sang "Strokin'" ... but this oldie but goodie has me much more interested in his work.

Not everybody is going to like this, but it's important to appreciate the styles of various eras, and this song is rich with soul.

Labels: 1970s, clarence carter, patches, soul music