Soul. R&B. Funk. Photographs 1972–1982

This magnificent volume brings together the extraordinary photographic archive of Bruce W. Talamon, capturing the vibrant heart of soul, R&B, and funk during their golden decade. Starting his career at Los Angeles’s SOUL Newspaper in the early 1970s, Talamon gained unprecedented access to the industry’s top figures. From quiet rehearsals and intimate recording sessions to grand, sweat-soaked stadium performances, these photographs chronicle a period when Black music reshaped the global cultural landscape.

Talamon’s work is remarkable for its warmth, immediacy, and deep respect for the artists. Rather than focusing solely on polished public personas, his camera captures the human element: the exhaustion of the road, the intensity of costume fittings, and the joy of collaboration. Published with Taschen’s signature high-quality print, this book acts as a gorgeous time capsule of an era celebrated for its flamboyant fashion, visual glamour, and absolute dedication to the rhythm.

This book is a treasure for music historians, photography enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by the style and sound of the seventies. It is a beautiful addition to any coffee table, offering a nostalgic and deeply soulful journey through a legendary chapter of musical history.