Stax Records, founded in Memphis, Tennessee in 1957, was the pioneering independent record label that created and popularized the distinctive Southern soul sound. Originally named Satellite Records, the label was established by Jim Stewart and his sister Estelle Axton, whose combined surnames formed the name "Stax."

I consider Stax Records to be the most influential label in developing Southern soul music, which blended raw, emotional vocals with powerful horn sections and tight rhythms. The label's signature sound emerged from their studio at the former Capitol Theater, known as "Soulsville USA," where they recorded legendary artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s.

What made Stax unique was its integrated house band and collaborative approach during a time of racial segregation. The label's house band, Booker T. & the M.G.'s, consisted of both Black and white musicians who created the instrumental backbone of Southern soul music.

The label's most productive period was between 1960 and 1975, during which they released numerous soul classics including "Green Onions," "Soul Man," and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay." These recordings showcased the raw, unpolished sound that became synonymous with Southern soul, distinguishing it from the more polished Motown sound from Detroit.

Key elements that defined Stax's Southern soul sound included:

- Heavy emphasis on horn sections
- Strong gospel influences
- Raw, emotional vocals
- Prominent bass lines
- Gritty, unpolished production quality
- Memphis-style rhythm guitar

While other labels like Fame Records in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, also contributed to the Southern soul sound, Stax Records was the primary architect of this genre. The label's impact on American popular music continues to influence artists and producers today, cementing its place as the birthplace of Southern soul.

Despite facing financial difficulties and eventually closing in 1975, Stax Records' legacy as the creator of Southern soul remains undisputed. The label was revived in 2003 and continues to preserve and promote the Southern soul tradition, though its most significant contributions to the genre were during its original run in the 1960s and early 1970s.

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