Soul Interviews Podcast

A true legend of Philadelphia soul, Bunny Siegel's name is forever etched in the history of R&B and funk. Known for his smooth vocals, impeccable songwriting, and his role as a pioneer of the Philly sound, Bunny's contributions helped define the golden era of soul music. As a member of the famed Delfonics, his voice became the heartbeat of a generation, influencing countless artists across genres and solidifying his place as one of Philly's finest musical talents.
In this rare and intimate interview with DJ Soulswede, recorded in 2012, Bunny reflects on his remarkable career—sharing insights into the rise of Philly soul, the dynamics of working with iconic figures like Thom Bell, and the stories behind some of the genre's greatest hits. As one of the architects of the "Philly Sound," Bunny's impact on music is undeniable, but in this conversation, he also opens up about his personal journey, the challenges he faced, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
Join us as we dive deep into the world of Philly soul with a man whose voice and vision continue to echo through the halls of music history.

As one of the most influential figures in contemporary smooth jazz, Brian Culbertson has been at the forefront of the genre for over two decades. With his signature blend of soulful melodies, sophisticated arrangements, and genre-bending experimentation, Culbertson has not only shaped the sound of modern jazz but has continuously pushed its boundaries. From his early days as a rising star to becoming a renowned producer, composer, and performer, Culbertson has never been content with staying within the lines—always evolving, always exploring new directions.
Throughout his career, Brian has kept the pulse of smooth jazz alive, often giving it a much-needed jolt of energy and creativity. He's been a master at reinvigorating the genre, introducing fresh concepts while staying true to its rich tradition. Whether it's through his vibrant album releases, captivating live shows, or collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, Culbertson has breathed new life into smooth jazz, keeping it relevant and dynamic for a new generation of listeners.
In this exclusive interview from 2010, DJ Soulswede sits down with Brian to explore his journey, his never-ending quest for musical innovation, and his role in shaping the future of smooth jazz. Culbertson opens up about his creative process, his desire to always push the envelope, and what drives him to continue leading the charge for a genre he has single-handedly helped to evolve and redefine.

In the early 1980s, Loose Ends emerged as one of the defining voices in British soul, blending smooth grooves, infectious melodies, and cutting-edge production. At the forefront of this revolution was Carl McIntosh, the group's mastermind and musical genius. With their unique sound, Loose Ends achieved international success, crafting timeless tracks like "Hangin' on a String," "Gonna Make You Mine," and "Slow Down."
But the journey wasn't without its complications. As the band's success grew, so did internal tensions—specifically with fellow members Steve Nichols and Jane Eugene. In this candid conversation, Carl McIntosh reflects on the highs and lows of his career, the complex dynamics that shaped Loose Ends, and the group's groundbreaking collaborations with legendary producer Nick Martinelli.
Martinelli, who helped shape their sound with a distinctive fusion of R&B, funk, and electronic elements, once commented that he thought the band was "too deep" for mainstream success. But despite the hurdles, their work together left an indelible mark on the music scene. Carl opens up about these pivotal moments, shedding light on what went wrong within the band and the profound impact those years continue to have on his music and legacy today.

A throwback interview from 2014.

In part two of our conversation with the great Michael Henderson, we continue exploring his remarkable legacy, diving into the latter half of his career up to today. From his unforgettable solo hits to his continued influence in R&B, jazz, and beyond, Michael reflects on his evolution as an artist, the music industry's changes, and the lasting impact of his work. With his signature wisdom and wit, he gives us a rare glimpse into the mind of a true music pioneer.

Michael Henderson's impact on music is nothing short of legendary. A gifted bassist, singer, songwriter, and producer, his career spans decades of innovation, collaboration, and timeless music. In this first part of our conversation, recorded in 2011, Michael takes us through the early years of his incredible journey—from his groundbreaking work as a bassist alongside icons like Miles Davis to his evolution into a soulful singer with chart-topping hits. With candid reflections and behind-the-scenes stories, he shares what it was like shaping the sound of an era.