All For The Love Of Sunshine by Solomon Burke – A Funk/Soul Punch to the Gut (1971)
Alright, let’s get one thing straight: Solomon Burke wasn’t just making music in 1971—he was preaching it. And with All For The Love Of Sunshine, he didn’t just drop an album; he unleashed a raw, soulful beast that still hits like a freight train today. Released under MGM Records in the US, this funk/soul gem is messy, unapologetic, and dripping with emotion. It’s not perfect, but damn if it doesn’t feel alive.
Now, let me tell ya—this record has tracks that stick to your ribs. Take “Lookin’ Out My Back Door,” for example. That song grabs you by the collar and shakes you awake. It’s got this gritty groove that feels like sweat dripping down your neck on a summer night. The bassline? Pure fire. You can practically hear the band sweating it out in the studio. This ain’t no polished pop track—it’s real-deal soul, man. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded why I fell in love with this genre in the first place. It’s raw, it’s dirty, and it doesn’t give a damn what you think.
Then there’s the title track, “All For The Love Of Sunshine.” Man, this one sneaks up on you. At first, it feels sweet, almost too smooth—like honey sliding off a spoon. But then Solomon’s voice kicks in, and suddenly you’re drowning in layers of emotion. The guy had pipes that could melt steel, and here he’s pouring everything he’s got into every note. By the end, you’re not just listening—you’re feeling. Honestly, it’s hard not to tear up when he belts those high notes. Like, who even does that anymore?
The rest of the album ain’t bad either, though some tracks don’t quite hit as hard as these two bangers. Still, even the weaker moments have this undeniable energy that keeps you hooked. It’s like hanging out at a barbecue where everyone’s slightly tipsy and vibing together—you might not catch every word, but the atmosphere pulls you right in.
Here’s the kicker, though: Listening to All For The Love Of Sunshine makes me realize how much we’ve lost in modern music. These days, everything’s so calculated, so safe. But back in ’71? Artists like Solomon Burke weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. They bled into their songs, man. And while this album may not be his best work, it’s still a testament to what happens when passion meets talent without overthinking it.
So yeah, go listen to this record. Crank it loud, let it mess up your day, and remember what music used to sound like before algorithms took over. Oh, and hey—if you don’t feel something deep in your chest while listening, maybe check your pulse. Just saying.
