The Story of American Studios

To celebrate the recent publication in paperback of Roben Jones' much-lauded book on Memphis' American Studios, and in collaboration with the author, Ace presents its own stellar overview of the hits and classics that the studio created between 1965 and 1972.

The American Studio's sound is just as much a part of Memphis' musical fabric as those of Stax and Hi (and just as recognisable). Among those who helped make that sound are guitarists Reggie Young and Bobby Womack, bass player Tommy Cogbill, keyboard men Bobby Emmons and Bobby Wood, drummer Gene Chrisman and songwriters Dan Penn, Spooner Oldham, Wayne Carson Thompson and studio-founder Chips Moman - legends one and all.

Some of the greatest worldwide hits of the 1960s and early 70s were recorded at American, and a listing of just the names of the artists who appear on our 24-track salute alone read as something of a Who's Who of pop and soul, never mind the names of those who don't.

American Studios packed a lot into what was a relatively brief life. Here are just some of its hundreds of fabulous recordings, carefully compiled to show exactly why they are still so revered by collectors, almost 40 years after the studio shut its doors for the last time.