Album: 25 Miles

Introduction
"25 Miles" is an influential album released in 1969 by American soul singer Edwin Starr. The album was produced by Johnny Bristol, Harvey Fuqua, and Edwin Starr, launched under the Gordy label, which was part of the famous Motown Records. "25 Miles" featured energetic and enthusiastic soul music that showed the tumultuous socio-political environment of the time. Integrating components of gospel, funk, and rock, Starr's powerful voice, fascinating lyrics, and engaging instrumentation securely established him as a prominent figure in the Soul music category.

Background
Born Charles Edwin Hatcher in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1942, Starr began his music career singing in doo-wop groups in Cleveland, Ohio. He ultimately moved to Detroit, where he would sign with Ric Tic Records in 1965, a rival to Motown Records. In 1968, Motown got Ric Tic, welcoming Starr to its roster of extremely effective artists. "25 Miles" would be Starr's 2nd album released on the Gordy label.

Secret Tracks and Themes
The titular track "25 Miles" stands as the album's signature song and stays among Starr's most widely known hits. A pulsating, balanced anthem, "25 Miles" is about determination, strength, and commitment. The track reflects Starr's journey and his painstaking pursuit of his goals, highlighted by raw feeling, unyielding perseverance, and an indomitable spirit.

Another standout track from the album is "I'm Still a Struggling Man", a powerful reflection on the obstacles faced by African Americans in the late 1960s. Filled with gospel-infused harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, the tune highlights the battles Starr and others dealt with while attempting to make a better life for themselves and their communities against continuous discrimination and inequality.

"Love Is My Destination" is another emphasize from "25 Miles", showcasing the wonderful blend of soul and pop that Motown was renowned for. Similar to the sounds of other Motown greats such as Marvin Gaye or The Supremes, the track declares Starr's mastery of different musical styles within the Soul category.

Reception and Impact
"25 Miles" got critical praise from both critics and listeners alike, praised for its perky, energetic portrayal of important social concerns while remaining optimistic and inspiring. The album demonstrated Edwin Starr's remarkable skill and cemented his status as one of the preeminent soul vocalists of the time.

Nevertheless, in spite of the album's appeal and critical recognition, its impact was challenged by the radio ban of "25 Miles" due to its supposed promo of substance abuse. At the time, a number of U.S. radio stations, following the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) guidelines, declined to air the tune. This debate, however, did not prevent the album from becoming a commercial success.

Tradition
Today, "25 Miles" is considered a traditional example of the Soul category, deeply entrenched in the American musical landscape. Edwin Starr went on to achieve further success, most especially with his politically charged 1970 hit "War". Regrettably, Starr died in 2003 at the age of 61, leaving a long lasting influence on the world of music.

Throughout the years, a number of artists have actually covered and sampled music from "25 Miles". For example, in 1989, British electronic dance duo Yazz and The Plastic Population utilized a sample from "25 Miles" on their hit single "The Only Way is Up", giving the song and Starr's music a new lease on life. As a testimony to Edwin Starr's contribution to the category, "25 Miles" remains an ageless piece of Soul music history that resonates throughout generations of fans.