Rod Stewart's Atlantic Crossing

Rod Stewart's Atlantic Crossing is the sixth solo album by Rod Stewart, released in 1975, which marked a significant shift in his career, as he transitioned from his previous The Faces band to a more soul and rock oriented sound, influenced by artists such as Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, and The Temptations. This album was a result of his collaboration with renowned producer Tom Dowd, who had previously worked with Aretha Franklin, Eric Clapton, and The Allman Brothers Band. The album's production and recording involved a range of talented musicians, including The Memphis Horns, The MG's, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s, which added to its distinct sound. The album's release was a major commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200, and featuring hit singles such as Sailing and This Old Heart of Mine.

Background

The concept of Atlantic Crossing emerged during Rod Stewart's 1974 tour with The Faces, where he began to explore new musical directions, drawing inspiration from soul and R&B artists like James Brown, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder. This shift in style was also influenced by his move to the United States, where he was exposed to a diverse range of musical genres, including funk, Jazz, and Gospel music. The album's title, Atlantic Crossing, refers to Rod Stewart's journey across the Atlantic Ocean, symbolizing his transition from the UK music scene to the US music scene, and his collaboration with American musicians, such as The Memphis Horns and The MG's. The album's production was handled by Tom Dowd, who had previously worked with Cream, Derek and the Dominos, and The Allman Brothers Band, and was known for his expertise in blending different musical styles.

Recording

The recording of Atlantic Crossing took place in December 1974 and January 1975 at Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Sheffield, Alabama, with a range of talented musicians, including The Memphis Horns, The MG's, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s. The album's sound was characterized by the use of horns, keyboards, and guitars, which added to its distinct soul and rock sound. The recording process involved Rod Stewart working closely with Tom Dowd and the other musicians to create a unique sound, which was influenced by a range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who. The album's recording also featured guest appearances by notable musicians, such as Donald Dunn, Steve Cropper, and Al Jackson Jr., who were all part of the Stax Records and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio scene.

Release and Reception

Atlantic Crossing was released on August 15, 1975, and was a major commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200. The album received positive reviews from critics, with many praising Rod Stewart's new musical direction and the album's production, which was handled by Tom Dowd. The album's release was also supported by a range of promotional activities, including tours and live performances, which featured Rod Stewart and his band performing songs from the album, as well as his previous hits, such as Maggie May and You Wear It Well. The album's success can be attributed to the collaboration between Rod Stewart and Tom Dowd, as well as the contributions of the other musicians involved in the recording process, including The Memphis Horns, The MG's, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s. The album's impact was also felt in the Music industry, with many artists, including Elton John, David Bowie, and Fleetwood Mac, citing Atlantic Crossing as an influence on their own work.

Track Listing

The track listing for Atlantic Crossing includes a range of songs, such as Three Time Loser, Alright for an Hour, and All in the Name of Rock 'n' Roll, which showcase Rod Stewart's ability to blend different musical styles, including soul, rock, and folk. The album also features cover versions of songs by other artists, such as This Old Heart of Mine, which was originally recorded by The Isley Brothers, and Still Love You, which was written by Jimmy Webb. The album's track listing is as follows: 1. Three Time Loser 2. Alright for an Hour 3. All in the Name of Rock 'n' Roll 4. Drift Away 5. Stone Cold Sober 6. I Don't Want to Talk About It 7. It's Not the Spotlight 8. This Old Heart of Mine 9. Still Love You 10. Sailing

Personnel

The personnel involved in the recording of Atlantic Crossing include a range of talented musicians, such as Rod Stewart, Tom Dowd, The Memphis Horns, The MG's, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s. The album's production was handled by Tom Dowd, who worked closely with Rod Stewart to create a unique sound, which was influenced by a range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who. The album's recording also featured guest appearances by notable musicians, such as Donald Dunn, Steve Cropper, and Al Jackson Jr., who were all part of the Stax Records and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio scene. The personnel involved in the recording of Atlantic Crossing are as follows: * Rod Stewart: lead vocals * Tom Dowd: production * The Memphis Horns: horns * The MG's: rhythm section * Booker T. & the M.G.'s: keyboards * Donald Dunn: bass * Steve Cropper: guitar * Al Jackson Jr.: drums Category:Rod Stewart albums