Burning Spear

Recorded by the Cleveland-based ensemble Sounds of Unity and Love for their debut album What Is It. The session featured the group's blend of funk rhythms, jazz improvisation and socially conscious themes under the direction of their core members. The track stood out as a powerful instrumental statement during the early-1970s fusion of funk and political expression. Its driving groove and memorable horn arrangement made it a favorite among underground DJs and collectors. The recording became a rare-groove and hip-hop sampling staple, with its breakbeats and horn passages reused by numerous producers. It remains the best-known track in the S.O.U.L catalogue and a benchmark of independent early-1970s funk.