Exploring the Depths of Wilson Pickett’s “634-5789 (Soulsville – U.S.A.)”
The Origin Story
When Wilson Pickett released the upbeat and electrifying “634-5789 (Soulsville – U.S.A.)” in 1966, he was already an established R&B hitmaker. The track, co-written with Eddie Floyd, became Pickett’s fourth number one hit on the R&B charts. But what lies beneath the catchy melody and the infectious chorus?
Soulsville – Then and Now
The title of the song is a reference to the phone number of a Memphis, Tennessee nightspot called The Club. The venue was in the heart of the vibrant African American community known as Soulsville. It was a hub for local musicians and audiences, attracting the likes of Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Al Green. Of course, the venue is now long gone, but the spirit of Soulsville lives on.
The Power of a Phone Call
The song hinges on the promise of a woman’s phone number. Pickett sings with excitement and anticipation, “If you need a little lovin’, call on me, If you want a little huggin’, call on me… I’ll be right here at home, All you have to do is pick up the telephone, And dial now 634-5789”. The simplicity of the request is matched only by the power of the potential outcome.
According to a 2020 study, the average American spends about 3 hours and 15 minutes a day on their smartphones. Moreover, 91% of adults keep their mobile device within arm’s reach. Pickett’s message about the power of a telephone call is as relevant as ever.
The Appeal of the Song
“634-5789” was and remains a party anthem, perfect for getting people up and dancing. But it’s also a celebration of human connection, albeit one rooted in the social norms and gender dynamics of the time.
At its core, the song is about pursuing romantic love, and the belief that a simple phone call can lead to that dream becoming a reality. We can all relate to the thrill of a new romance, and the anticipation of waiting for that call.
As noted by music critic Ebet Roberts in her 2016 article for The New Yorker, “Soulsville is not just a place, but a state of mind…“634-5789 (Soulsville – U.S.A.)” is a classic that makes you want to dance and sing along, and serves as an ode to the power of the telephone to connect us to the music and the people we love.”
The Legacy of Wilson Pickett
Pickett was a trailblazer, both in terms of his distinctive style and his mission to bridge the gap between African American and white audiences. Despite his tragic death in 2006 at the age of 64, his legacy endures. In 1991, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless artists, from the Blues Brothers to Bruno Mars.
“634-5789 (Soulsville – U.S.A.)” is just one example of the genius of Wilson Pickett. His ability to tap into the essential human desire for love and connection, combined with his electrifying voice and undeniable stage presence, has solidified his place in the pantheon of soul music legends.
In Conclusion
There is something timeless and enduring about Wilson Pickett’s “634-5789 (Soulsville – U.S.A.).” It captures the joy, excitement, and nervous anticipation of pursuing a romantic connection. It reminds us of the power of a simple phone call, and the importance of human connection. Most importantly, it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Soulsville, and the impact that African American music has had on American culture.
