Drawn from a mosaic of influences, including folk, gospel, and blues, R&B is the music that bridged the gap between audiences and helped, at the very height of racism in America, to dismantle racial barriers. Through substantial entries on the chief architects and innovators, "Icons of R&B and Soul" offers a vibrant overview of the music's impact in American culture and how it reflected contemporary society's politics, trends, and social issues. Numerous sidebars highlight regional music scenes from Memphis and New Orleans to San Francisco; iconic locations, such as New York's Apollo Theater; and musical roots, including jazz, gospel, and blues. Also included a list of important print and Web resources, as well as a list of selected recordings.This encyclopedia will help students and interested readers explore the historical and cultural framework of R&B and soul music through the musicians who have come to define the genre.Topics in this book include: Ray Charles; Little Richard; Fats Domino and New Orleans R Ruth Brown; Sam Cooke; Etta James; James Brown; Aretha Franklin; Booker T & the MGs; Otis Redding; Ike and Tina Turner; Curtis Mayfield; Berry Gordy; Stevie Wonder; Marvin Gaye; Smokey Robinson; The Temptations; and, Prince.