For over four decades soul music legend Al Bell has been one of the key voices that help put the Memphis Soul Sound on the international map. The award winning singer/songwriter/ producer and record executive/owner is best known as one of the key figures and co-owners of Memphis-based Stax Records. Bell’s stellar career in music has been instrumental in launching the careers of soul and R&B legends such as: The Staples Singers and Isaac Hayes, The Emotions, The Dramatics, Mel and Tim, Booker T. and the MG’s, and so many others.
During its heyday Stax Records became the second largest African American-owned business during the 1970’s. In fact, in 2009 the British Broadcasting Network (BBC) stated Al Bell as, “one of the icons of soul music…the driving force behind Stax Records.”
After achieving phenomenal success with Stax Records, Bell went on to become president of the Motown Records Group. During the 1990’s Bell started his own record label, Bell Mark Records, which brought the world the hit single “Whoomp! (There it Is)” the group Tag Team.
Currently, Mr. Bell continues to make an impact in the independent music industry scene in Memphis, along with racking scores of accolades for his work and experience. Last year President Obama sent Al an official letter to acknowledge the tireless work he’s done and the contributions he’s made to the music industry. In 2011 Al Bell received the highly coveted Grammy Trustee Award. Bell now joins a pantheon of musical icons who have received the prestigious honor, including The Beatles, Walt Disney, George and Ira Gershwin, Berry Gordy, Duke Ellington and Stax Records’ co- founder Estelle Axton.
His current website and radio show, and the work he’s doing for the Memphis Music Foundation, can be found at www.AlbellPresents.com