Soul to Soul review joyous 1971 concert film captures Black American stars' emotional return to Ghana

"Soul to Soul is a record of an epic independence day concert in Accra, Ghana, in 1971, given by American and Ghanaian musicians. Ghana was chosen as it was the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from Britain. Among the US contingent were Tina Turner, Wilson Pickett, Santana, the Staple Singers and the Voices of East Harlem."

"The concert and film can be seen now as part of the American Black consciousness debate of the time, which specifically prized the concept of the African motherland and the spiritual importance of returning to the wellspring of Black American inspiration."

"The onstage performances themselves are interleaved with segments out in the city streets, including a funeral, complete with sobbing widow. There is a visit to a slave castle, and ruminations on Ghana's tragic connection with the slave trade. It is about the music, the community and the history."

Soul to Soul is a restored documentary by Oscar-winning filmmaker Denis Sanders capturing an epic independence day concert in Accra, Ghana in 1971. The event featured American musicians including Tina Turner, Wilson Pickett, Santana, the Staple Singers, and the Voices of East Harlem performing alongside Ghanaian artists. Ghana was selected as the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from Britain. The film reflects the American Black consciousness movement of the era, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the African motherland and its importance to Black American identity. Beyond performances, the documentary incorporates street scenes from Accra, visits to slave castles, and reflections on Ghana's connection to the slave trade, creating a unified celebration of music, community, and historical significance without interviews or backstage footage.

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