synthhtnys@comcast.net wrote:
>> Booker T & the MGs
> 
> 
> Good call.
> 
> I think there are some session bands that deserve equal billing in
> this area. Guns for hire are usually not as recognized as much as
> people who set out to be a distinct band, but the Wrecking Crew or
> the Funk Brothers wouldn't be out of place in an all-time great
> Amercian Band.

Tho folks didn't get to see the Funk Brothers or the Wrecking Crew
on tour, at least performing the music that made them famous. They
were too valuable to the hit machine for touring.

On the other hand, when on tour as the backbone of the Stax/Volt
review, backing Otis, Sam & Dave, Carla Thomas, Eddie Floyd, etc on
more individualistic tours, or as themselves -- The Mar-Keys (Booker
T & The MGs & The Memphis Horns) or later The MGs with the Bar-Kays
or the MGs or Bar-Kays on their own -- were the best performing band
in America that night.

An nicety of being a stop on the "Night Train" meant that Raleigh
of the 60's hosted a steady stream of the best performers the South
had to offer. And Booker T, Steve, Donald & Al were the driving
force behind quite a few.

Yee Ha,

  - michael