The Mar-Keys were a pivotal American soul band formed in the late 1950s as one of the first house bands for the legendary Stax Records in Memphis, Tennessee. Comprised of a rotating lineup of musicians, the group served as the backing band for various Stax artists while also carving out their own claim to fame with a series of instrumental hits. Their early success came with the 1961 single "Last Night," which became a chart-topping hit and set the tone for the emerging Memphis soul sound.

With a dynamic blend of brass, wind, and rhythm sections, The Mar-Keys were at the forefront of the soul music movement, often blending elements of R&B, blues, and jazz into their records. The band's ability to create infectious grooves made them highly sought after in the studio, contributing to the classic Stax sound that would influence countless artists to come. Over the years, The Mar-Keys released a series of albums that showcased their instrumental prowess, including "Do The Pop-Eye," "The Great Memphis Sound," and "Memphis Experience." Despite lineup changes and the eventual absorption of some members into the related group Booker T. & the M.G.'s, The Mar-Keys remain a symbol of the revolutionary sound of Stax Records, with albums like "Stax Instrumentals" and live performances such as those captured at the Monterey International Pop Festival documenting their lasting contribution to the heritage of soul music.

Genres

Instrumental Soul

Memphis Soul

Southern Soul

Latest Release

The Dribble: Rare Soul Sides

The Mar-Keys

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released November 13, 2020