Stax offers a never-ending tribute to Southern soul

Originally coined “Satellite” in 1957, Stax Records is largely to thank for the gift of Memphis soul, or the Memphis sound.

The label’s success began in 1960 with the hit single “Cause I Love You” by Rufus and Carla Thomas, which quickly sold 40,000 copies locally and resulted in a national distribution contract with Atlantic Records. In 1962, Otis Redding stepped through the studio doors, forever sealing Stax’s slot in American music history.

Today, Stax remains second only to Motown in sales and significance. Delve into their online archives and plan to visit when the museum reopens on June 18.

– Kristie Coggins, The 100 Companies