My Soul - Motown's Best - James Last

James Last, the legendary German orchestra leader, presents a delightful homage to the Motown era with "My Soul - Motown's Best." Released on November 6, 1995, via Polydor, this album is a vibrant collection of soulful tracks that capture the essence of Motown's golden age. Spanning just over 51 minutes, the album features 12 meticulously arranged songs that showcase James Last's unique interpretation of classic Motown hits.

The album kicks off with the iconic "Stop! In The Name Of Love," followed by a heartfelt rendition of "I'll Be There." Fans of Motown will delight in James Last's take on timeless classics such as "I Heard It Through The Grapevine," "Touch Me In The Morning," and "Reach Out, I'll Be There." The album also includes beloved tracks like "My Cherie Amour," "Baby Love," and "You Keep Me Hangin' On," each infused with James Last's signature orchestral style.

"Yester-Me, Yester-You, Yesterday" offers a nostalgic journey through time, while "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "You Can't Hurry Love" are reimagined with a polka and big band twist. The album concludes with the poignant "Surrender," leaving listeners with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

"My Soul - Motown's Best" is a testament to James Last's versatility and his ability to blend various musical genres seamlessly. Whether you're a longtime fan of Motown or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate with its soulful melodies and orchestral arrangements.

James Last, affectionately known as the "King of Corn," was a German composer and big band leader whose infectious "happy music" captivated audiences worldwide. With a career spanning over five decades, Last's James Last Orchestra became a staple in the easy listening and big band genres, blending elements of orchestra, polka, and even disco-funk. His signature sound, filled with lush strings, horns, and a contagious rhythm, made his albums best-sellers, particularly in Germany and the UK. Last's discography boasts an impressive 65 charting albums in the UK alone, with hits like "Happy Heart" becoming international sensations. Beyond his recording success, Last's energetic live performances and television shows kept crowds dancing and entertained for decades, cementing his legacy as one of the most successful bandleaders and arrangers in popular music history.