BMI Exclusive: Inside Royal Studios with Soul Legend Al Green

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of iconic albums Let’s Stay Together and I’m Still in Love with You.

Both released in 1972, Let’s Stay Together and I’m Still in Love with You are hailed today as definitive classics, showcasing the incredible songwriting and vocal talents of Al Green that set a gold standard in soul music. BMI Executive Director, Creative Shannon Sanders was honored by the rare opportunity to sit down with the multiple GRAMMY-winning Al Green in Royal Studios in Memphis, where these two landmark albums were recorded, to discuss their creation and enduring legacy. Helmed by renowned producer/songwriter Willie Mitchell, these records paired Green with the versatile Hi-Rhythm Band and captured not only a string of timeless songs like “La-La for You,” “Love and Happiness,” “Look What You Done for Me” and, of course, “Let’s Stay Together,” but also a pivotal moment in time. These legendary songs came with a resonant staying power that has made them fixtures in the canon of popular music.

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[onyxdeceit]

So happy that Rev. Green is still with us. He's an icon.

[scottmerrell]

Al Green is one of the greatest singers of all time.

[ajonesa]

THIS VIDEO WAS FANTASTIC!!! I WISH IT WAS 2 HRS LONGER!!!! I LOVE REV GREEN!!! HE IS THE GOAT HANDS DOWN!!!!

[kirkleaphart-stankybleapha]

I was 14 years old when I met AL in Detroit in 1972 in front of the David Broderick Tower after he had just finished an interview at WJLB radio
and after I had just answered and fulfilled his driver's request for
instructions as to where Flagg
Brothers Shoes store was where
they could get those white shoes
that the world saw and still see AL
wearing on the front of the album
cover of I'm Still In Love With You.

[WordsAreWealth]

I really enjoyed hearing them
Talk about their creative process. Pure genius!!

[dominiquejones]

Willie Mitchell is 1 of the greatest prosducers EVER

[kwameaboagye]

Brother Al Green and Brother Willie Mitchell were so phenomenal.
Brother Al Green soul and gospel singer and Brother Willie Mitchell record producer and manager.
RIP Brother Willie Mitchell.

[briannaliguori]

amazing video! a true legend, this is so awesome!

[kingdomthings]

Loved watching this 😍. I was 8 years old, and loved these songs. Still do. Music washes away from the soul, the dust of everyday life. 🎙🎵 🎼 🎷🎸🎺🪕

[douglaschristine]

I say Al Green sure has alot of great memories and good times, I wish I was there because it sure seemed like alot of fun. All the best to you Al for making me smile every time I sang and played one of your songs with me, thanks 🙏. Peace 🕊️.

[kathrynprice]

Wow, Just out of this World 🌍, , , , You just had that It about you, 🎤🎼Thanks for the Memories 🌹

[jamallabarge]

Looks like Mr. Mitchell did more than write beautiful music. He lead people to make beautiful music come to life.

[dominiquejones]

Legacy is already implanted. Al cant even explain himself

[LaurenaLaCroix]

I was young, Otis voice, one thing... Al Green... lifetime favorite sing along songs... into my teenage years, and beyond... ❤

[ustheserfs]

the true brilliance is memphis and its collage of music and influences. al, willie, royal studios and hi records are a pillar of that brilliance.

[debbiedaniels]

I truly enjoy all of
Al Greens 🎵🎶 music...

[jorhodes]

I wish that God would grant me the opportunity to meet Al Green face-to-face to tell him how much his music has touched me. He is one of my top favorites. ❤❤❤

[DrewMusicYT]

So good to see Al Green in 2022! We all love Booker T & The MGs, but I would love to see a documentary on the Royal Studios / XL / Sounds of Memphis band members and artists who were part of that massive Memphis soul scene happening outside of (but alongside of) Stax.

[JohnBarnett-ql]

Excellent post, thanks for these memories ❤❤❤❤ John Barnett 2:42 revisited October 20. 2024. ❤

[Rochellesettle]

Good stuff here. Thank you 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽