In over sixty years the Northern Soul scene has become
Britain´s longest surviving dance culture. Its rise in popularity has been
phenomenal, all thanks due to a network of clubs and hardworking knowledgeable,
passionate deejays, who have championed early American rhythm and blues music
that eventually became Northern Soul. In Swinging 60´s London the 100 Club, the
Flamingo club, the Bag O Nails club and the Scene club together laid the
foundations for the future Northern Soul scene that found a ready home in the
new clubs Up North. The Catacombs in Wolverhampton, the Twisted Wheel in
Manchester, the Golden Torch in Tunstall Stoke on Trent, the Highland Room in
Blackpool and the Wigan Casino. Now, nothing more than cherished memories, but
what memories for all of us who were there back in the day. A time when Keeping
the Faith meant so much more than a well-worn phrase. It was a way of life. And
the Northern Soul scene of today is going stronger than ever, attracting more
and more young people. Ironically enough the headquarters of soul is back in
the 100 Club in Soho, where it all began, celebrating a magnificent run of over
forty years of hosting continuous Northern Soul all-nighters, making it without
a doubt the most influential and respected club on today’s scene.  The
author takes a closer look at the soul scene in the UK, making it what it is
today – music made in America, and played in Britain.