After college, Mahal moved to Los Angeles and formed the group Rising Sons with Ry Cooder in 1964. The group signed with Columbia Records and released one single and recorded another album which was not released by Columbia until 1992. Taj, frustrated with the mixed reaction to his music quit the group and went solo. Still with Columbia, he released a well received, self titled album in 1968, and based on its success released a second album, Natch'l Blues that same year. Two very different records - Giant Step, with his electric band, and solo De Ole Folks at Home - were released in 1969 together as a double album. This firmly established Taj as an American blues original. The double album The Real Thing, captured him live at this time, with a horn section.
He has received two Grammy awards in the category "Best Contemporary Blues Album", the first in 1997 for Señor Blues, and again in 2000 for Shoutin' in Key. He has performed on various film soundtracks including Sounder and Blues Brothers 2000, in which he also appeared.
A Little Soulful Tune
Taj Mahal Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You can sing it in key
Let your knees start to jumpin'
Get your heart start to pumpin"
It's a soulful tune
Come on and sing me your tune
The lyrics of Taj Mahal's "A Little Soulful Tune" emphasize the power of music to uplift one's spirit and bring people together. The song suggests that music has the ability to transcend language and cultural barriers, as it encourages the listener to sing in their own key, regardless of whether or not it matches that of the song. Rather, the focus is on feeling the rhythm and allowing oneself to become fully immersed in the experience.
The imagery of knees jumping and hearts pumping emphasizes the physical and emotional response that listeners have to music. The song's repetitive refrain encourages active participation, inviting listeners to join in and create their own renditions of the tune. The phrase "sing me your tune" suggests that each person has a unique perspective and something to contribute, emphasizing the ability of music to create a sense of unity while also celebrating individuality. Ultimately, "A Little Soulful Tune" is a joyful celebration of the power of music to bring people together and uplift the human spirit.
Line by Line Meaning
It's a soulful tune
This song has a deep emotional quality that resonates with the soul.
You can sing it in key
You can sing this song in the correct pitch to make it sound beautiful.
Let your knees start to jumpin'
Let the rhythm of this song move you and cause you to dance.
Get your heart start to pumpin'
Allow the energy of this song to create a physical reaction in your body and increase your heart rate.
It's a soulful tune
Once again, emphasizing that this song has a profound emotional quality.
Come on and sing me your tune
Don't be shy, express yourself and share your own unique song with confidence.
Contributed by Addison D. Suggest a correction in the comments below.