In the '60s and '70s, the Memphis-based Stax/Volt label family cranked out some of the hardest-hitting deep soul anywhere. These slamming Stax sides -- from the iconic to the esoteric -- will get you in the groove.
In 1955 Cosimo Matassa opened Cosimo Recording Studios in the French Quarter ushering in the "New Orleans Sound" (R&B heavy on the guitar and vocals). Cosimo fostered and attracted remarkable talent including Ray Charles and Allen Toussaint.
A full orchestra is not always needed for classical music; in fact, more music has been written for intimate spaces than grand concert halls. Explore the chamber music of the great composers.