Expansion Records

In a world oversaturated with streaming platforms, algorithmic playlists, and short-form social content, one might assume that soul music, with its rich legacy, emotive delivery, and roots in community, would fade into the background. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Soul music is not only surviving; it’s thriving. And its resurgence owes much to the digital radio stations that have become the genre’s new beating heart.

Stations like SolarRadio.com, Mi-Soul.com, and others have become more than mere broadcasters, they are cultural hubs, community anchors, and lifelines for both veteran artists and new voices in the soul genre. In the age of faceless algorithms and passive listening, these stations restore the human connection and curatorial expertise that soul music depends on.

From Pirate Frequencies to Digital Powerhouses

To understand the power of these digital stations, it’s worth recalling the history of soul music’s relationship with radio. In the UK especially, stations like Solar Radio began as pirate broadcasters, rebellious outposts giving a voice to music marginalised by mainstream media. With tight radio playlists dominated by pop and rock, soul music fans relied on late-night frequencies and cassette tape culture to get their fix of Luther Vandross, Loose Ends, or Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.

Fast forward to today, and the same spirit of independence and community remains, only now it’s broadcast in high-definition audio, globally accessible, and no longer under threat of being shut down. Solar Radio and Mi-Soul have migrated from pirate frequencies to full digital operations, with DAB, online streaming, and mobile apps enabling soul to reach listeners in New York, Lagos, London, and Tokyo, simultaneously.

Curation Over Algorithms

Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have undoubtedly made music more accessible. But for soul music, a genre defined by emotional depth, nuance, and a deep connection to lived experience, recommendation algorithms rarely do it justice. An AI engine can’t distinguish between a glossy R&B pop track and a soul-stirring ballad steeped in gospel tradition. Nor can it trace the lineage from Aretha Franklin to Lianne La Havas, or from Donny Hathaway to Gregory Porter.

This is where digital soul stations excel. Programmes are curated by lifelong aficionados, DJs who live and breathe the genre, and often artists themselves. Solar Radio’s stalwart Tony Monson, without whom the station would not exist, alongside Richard Marzetti, Gary Spence and myself, Ralph Tee, to Mi-Soul’s roster which includes legends like Trevor Nelson, Ronnie Herel and Lindsay Wesker, all bringing decades of knowledge and passion to the table. Their selections aren’t designed to maximise skip rates; they’re built to nurture discovery, nostalgia, and community.

Classic cuts sit comfortably alongside new releases, a track from Teddy Pendergrass might be followed by something fresh from Moonchild or Cleo Sol. There’s a deliberate through-line, a narrative of continuity that streaming platforms simply can’t replicate.

A Platform for the Unsigned and Overlooked

For independent soul artists, getting traction on major streaming platforms is a tall order. Playlist placements are often gatekept by opaque algorithms and industry politics. By contrast, digital radio offers an immediate and authentic route to exposure.

Statins such as Solar Radio and Mi-Soul are known for championing both the icons and the up-and-comers. An unsigned artist with a solid track and professional mix has a real shot of being played, not just once, but potentially on rotation, discussed by presenters, and shared within loyal listener communities. That sort of exposure is gold dust for musicians working outside the pop mainstream.

This is particularly important for soul artists operating in genres like neo-soul, rare groove, funk, and modern gospel, all of which thrive on emotional resonance but can be overlooked in today’s trend-driven music economy. A cosign from one of these respected stations can lead to gigs, interviews, fanbase growth, and most crucially, sustainability.

Listener Loyalty and Cultural Credibility

One of the key factors driving soul’s survival on digital radio is the loyalty of its audience. Soul fans don’t tune in passively; they engage. They post shout-outs, they request deep cuts, they follow DJs from station to station, and they attend live events like the annual Luxury Soul Weekender in Blackpool, broadcasts and affiliated club nights. In this ecosystem, DJs aren’t just playlist curators, they’re tastemakers, ambassadors, and historians.

This fan behaviour creates a feedback loop: the stations support the artists, the listeners support the stations, and the genre continues to evolve without losing its essence.

It’s also worth noting that these stations carry cultural credibility. When Solar Radio puts together a Marvin Gaye tribute, or Mi-Soul hosts a night celebrating Women in Soul, it’s not a PR stunt, it’s a genuine homage. That authenticity has become increasingly rare in a music landscape where heritage is often exploited rather than honoured.

Beyond the Music: A Cultural Archive

What separates digital soul stations from streaming platforms is the deep contextualisation of the music. Presenters don’t just press play, they provide backstories, production credits, lyrical insight, and social context. For the listener, this enriches the experience. For the genre, it preserves legacy.

This is especially important as the original generation of soul pioneers age or pass on. Digital radio becomes an archive, a form of oral history where anecdotes, rare recordings, and cultural references are documented and shared in real-time. A 60-minute Curtis Mayfield special, for example, becomes both a celebration and a lesson in Black political history, musical innovation, and artistic courage.

The Future of Soul Is Digital – But Human

As bandwidth expands and listening habits shift, digital radio’s role in soul music is only set to deepen. Stations like Solar and Mi-Soul have already built hybrid models, blending livestreamed events, YouTube content, merchandise, and mobile apps with traditional radio formats.

But at the heart of it all is something delightfully analogue: a person with a microphone, spinning records they love, for a community that listens, feels, and responds.

For soul music, a genre born in the sanctified spaces of gospel choirs and the smoky basements of R&B clubs, that human connection is everything. And in a digital world increasingly dominated by machine learning and faceless media, digital soul radio is the genre’s sanctuary.

Conclusion

Soul music’s journey has never been easy. It has weathered the shifting tides of fashion, the constraints of radio playlists, and the fragmentation of modern media. But thanks to digital radio stations like Solar Radio, Mi-Soul, and others around the globe, the genre is not only surviving, it’s experiencing a renaissance.

By championing authenticity, curation, and community, these stations offer something that no algorithm ever could: a soul. And in doing so, they ensure that the music continues to speak, with power, with passion, and with purpose, to generations old and new.

If you’re a true fan of soul music, there’s one date you’ll want to circle in your diary: Friday 9th to Sunday 11th January 2026. That’s when the 30th Luxury Soul Weekender takes over the Grand Hotel, North Promenade, Blackpool for a milestone celebration of live soul, DJs, and community spirit.

Not only does this mark the 30th edition of the UK’s most prestigious winter soul event, but it also coincides with 40 years of Expansion Records, the legendary label behind the festival. With headliners like Ann Nesby and Ashley Scott, the 2026 Weekender is set to be the biggest and most memorable yet.

Here’s why you cannot miss the Luxury Soul Weekender 2026 in Blackpool.

1. An Historic Double Celebration – 30 Weekenders and 40 Years of Expansion Records

The Luxury Soul Weekender Blackpool has been running for nearly three decades, attracting fans from across the UK and beyond. In January 2026, it celebrates its 30th event, a huge achievement in itself.

But that’s not all. Expansion Records, the independent soul label that launched in 1986, is also celebrating its 40th anniversary. For four decades, Expansion has kept soul thriving in the UK, introducing new talent and keeping timeless grooves alive.

This dual milestone makes the 2026 event more than just another festival. It’s a celebration of soul history, community, and the future of the genre.

2. Ann Nesby Live in Blackpool – Soul Royalty Returns

A headline like this deserves a legend, and the organisers have delivered. Ann Nesby, former lead singer of the Grammy-winning group Sounds of Blackness, (Optimistic, In The Spirit), will perform live on Saturday night.

Nesby is more than a singer – she’s a force of nature. With her powerhouse vocals and uplifting stage presence, she embodies the spirit of soul and gospel. Fans can expect classics from her Sounds of Blackness days, along with her acclaimed solo material.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a true soul icon live in the UK, the Ann Nesby Luxury Soul Weekender 2026 concert is your chance.

3. Ashley Scott – The New Voice of Modern Soul

Flying in from Philadelphia to make his UK debut is Ashley Scott, (nephew of Helen Scott of The Three Degrees), one of Expansion Records’ brightest stars. A modern soul singer-songwriter with a rich, smooth sound, Scott bridges the gap between classic influences and contemporary style.

His appearance at the 30th Luxury Soul Weekender Blackpool reflects what the event does best: honouring the legends while showcasing the future of soul. Expect fresh grooves, heartfelt lyrics, and a performance that will win over new fans.

4. More Than a Concert – A True Soul Community

What sets the Luxury Soul Weekender apart from other music festivals is the atmosphere. This is not just a gig; it’s three days of soul culture, where live performances, DJ sets, and dancefloors run day and night.

The Grand Hotel becomes a hub for soul lovers, with different rooms dedicated to various eras and styles:

• Classic Motown and Northern Soul for the purists.
• Modern soul grooves for dancers.
• Contemporary R&B and jazz-influenced sets for the forward-thinkers.

It’s not unusual to see generations mixing on the dance floor – from fans who’ve been collecting vinyl since the 70s to younger audiences discovering soul for the first time.

This sense of community and connection is why so many people return year after year. And for the 30th edition, the energy will be off the scale.

5. The Venue – Blackpool’s Grand Hotel on the North Promenade

The Grand Hotel, Blackpool, has become synonymous with the Weekender experience. Situated on the famous North Promenade, it’s the perfect setting for a seaside winter celebration of soul.

Inside, the hotel’s function rooms are transformed into buzzing arenas for live concerts, late-night parties, and social spaces where fans connect over a shared love of music. Outside, the crisp January air of the seaside adds to the unique charm of the event.

6. A Bridge Between Generations of Soul Lovers

The Luxury Soul Weekender 2026 is as much about the future as it is about the past. While headliner Ann Nesby represents a golden legacy of soul and gospel, Ashley Scott shows where the genre is heading.

That intergenerational spirit defines the event: it’s a place where younger fans can learn about the roots of soul, and where veteran fans can discover the rising stars keeping the flame alive.

7. Why This Year’s Weekender is Truly Special

Every Luxury Soul Weekender is memorable, but the 30th anniversary in 2026 has a unique weight to it. It’s a chance to look back at 30 successful events that have kept soul culture thriving in the UK, and at the same time, to look forward to what the next 30 could bring.

From legendary DJs spinning rare grooves to live sets that leave you breathless, this will be an historic soul music event in the UK.

8. How to Be There – Booking and Info

The 30th Luxury Soul Weekender 2026 runs from Friday 9th – Sunday 11th January at the Grand Hotel, Blackpool FY1 2JQ.

• Booking hotline: 01253 623434 (Mon–Fri, 9–5 – option 3, ask for Sally or Gail).
• Website: luxurysoulweekender.com
• Email: [email protected]

Tickets and hotel packages always sell fast, and with Ann Nesby and Ashley Scott live in Blackpool, this year’s demand is expected to be huge.

Final Word – Don’t Miss the 30th Luxury Soul Weekender

The Luxury Soul Weekender Blackpool 2026 isn’t just another event – it’s a landmark in UK soul history. With 30 editions of unforgettable weekends behind it and 40 years of Expansion Records shaping the soundtrack, this is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Ralph Tee of Expansion adds “Ann Nesby is soul music royalty, one of the few big voices of the genre still performing and we are very lucky for her to agree to travel so far from the USA when she is in constant demand at home. Especially when our event is in the North West of England in winter!”

Whether you’re a lifelong soul fan or someone just discovering the magic of the genre, the combination of Ann Nesby live in the UK, Ashley Scott representing the future, and three days of non-stop soul culture makes this the most important soul music event of 2026.

NB:  A limited number of non-accommodation all weekend wristbands are available from Ticketline:  

Don’t miss your chance to be part of history.

Beloyd – “Get Into Your Life”

If you know Earth, Wind & Fire’s rocket-fuelled “Getaway”, you already know Beloyd. Bernard “Beloyd” Taylor co-wrote that 1976 hit before cutting his own sublime modern soul single a year later for 20th Century Records. “Get Into Your Life” arrived in 1977, often coupled with “Today All Day”, and over time became one of those needle-to-the-label grails, scarce, expensive, and whispered about by collectors for its bright hook, warm production and mid-tempo glide. The record’s appeal is obvious: the songwriting chops that made “Getaway” a smash are channelled into something more intimate and quietly insistent, dancefloor friendly without shouting for attention. Original US 7"s sit on 20th Century (cat. TC-2353), including promo copies with stereo/mono cuts, which is part of why clean originals are thin on the ground. Beloyd’s roots in Cleveland outfit S.O.U.L. and his later work with EWF seal the pedigree; this new 7" gives the tune the accessible home it should have had all along. 

The Jackson Sisters – “I Believe in Miracles”

Few records sum up rare groove mythology better. Five sisters from Compton (based in Detroit), produced vocally by Bobby Taylor and Smokey’s Miracles alumnus Pete Moore, arranged by Gene Page, singing a Mark Capanni composition that first surfaced on Capitol as a 1974 promo. The Jackson Sisters’ version originally slipped out on Prophesy in 1973, dipped in the US, then detonated in the UK during the mid-80s rare groove wave, re-charting in June 1987 and peaking at No. 72. What you get here is an evergreen: elastic bass, sweet-as-sugar harmonies, and that indelible chorus that’s powered countless floors from Southport to Soho. It’s the sort of record you think you know until you hear it on a crisp 45 and remember why it became a scene standard in the first place.

The Nicky Newarkers – “Woman”

Blink and you’d miss their entire discography: a short-lived New Jersey group who left behind a single Mercury 45 in 1976, “Leave Me Or Love Me” backed with “Woman”. The latter is the diamond, a soulful dancer with a light, tipsy vocal hook and a rhythm section that walks the line between Jersey bar-band grit and mid-70s big-label sheen. Cuban-American producer Jesus Alvarez oversaw the session with Jerry Ross; the credit alone tells you the cut was made with ears tuned to dancefloor traction. Original promos are notoriously scarce and have fetched strong money for years, largely because “Woman” kept doing the rounds in modern/northern rooms while the group itself remained maddeningly undocumented. This fresh 7" is your chance to own the myth without remortgaging the house.

Father’s Children – “Hollywood Dreaming”

Washington, D.C.’s Father’s Children began as a late-60s doo-wop outfit called The Dreams before evolving into a sophisticated funk-soul ensemble. By 1979 they’d landed at Mercury in Los Angeles, with Wayne Henderson (The Crusaders) producing and Side Effect’s Augie Johnson co-piloting, enlisting players like Bobby Lyle and Dean Gant for extra gloss. The album’s opener “Hollywood Dreaming” is the sweet spot: lush horns, airy harmonies and a pocket that feels custom-built for rare groove floors. It didn’t trouble the charts at the time, the album under-performed, a victim of label turbulence and timing, but the tune endured, sampled and spun into cult status. On 7", back-to-back with period companions, it finally plays the role it was built for: a four-minute ticket to sun-streaked LA via Adams Morgan. 

We The People – “Making My Daydream Real”

Not the garage-rock band, this is the early-70s soul outfit who cut a lone Lion Records single in 1973. “Making My Daydream Real” is the A-side and it’s all there in the title: dream-state strings, stepping drums, and a vocal that stays cool while the arrangement lifts and lifts. Written by Landy McNeal and manufactured by MGM, the record is one of those 45s that modern soul DJs quietly slip into peak-time sets because it bridges sweet and stepper without breaking a sweat. The flip, “Whatcha Done For Me, I’m Gonna Do For You”, is a tidy companion, but it’s the A-side’s combination of melody and motion that’s kept copies circulating at a premium. If your box needs a mid-tempo weapon that isn’t rinsed to death, this is it. 

The Bar-Kays – “Open Your Heart”

Memphis survivors, Stax graduates, Mercury hitmakers, few bands have worn more eras than The Bar-Kays. After the tragedy of ’67, the group rebuilt and by the late ’70s were deep into a potent run on Mercury (“Shake Your Rump to the Funk”, “Boogie Body Land”). “Open Your Heart” comes from the 1980 LP As One, produced by longtime collaborator Allen Jones, and it’s a perfect snapshot of their post-disco glide phase: sleek rhythm guitars, plush synths, and Larry Dodson pleading through a hook that sticks. Some territories coupled it on 7" with other album cuts; either way it’s a fan favourite that slipped through the cracks for casual listeners while becoming a connoisseur’s choice for smooth-stepping floors. Putting it back on a dedicated 45 is long overdue. 

Why these six belong together

Across these sides you can trace the soul continuum: independent hustle meeting major-label polish, regional stories cutting through industry noise, and songs that quietly refused to die. Beloyd’s cut shows how a hitmaker can bottle lightning twice, once for EWF, once for himself. The Jackson Sisters demonstrate the UK scene’s power to re-write a tune’s history a decade later. The Nicky Newarkers represent the beautiful one-that-got-away, rescued from the collector’s market. Father’s Children capture D.C.’s move from grassroots harmony to glossy West Coast soul. We The People prove there’s still gold hidden in the mid-’70s racks marked “Lion/MGM”. And The Bar-Kays remind you that veterans can pivot into the next sound without losing their bite. 

This isn’t nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. These are functional records, 45s designed to move a room. Cue them up and you’ll hear why they’ve lived in the bags of working DJs for decades: proper song craft, fat grooves, and that under-the-skin feel you can’t fake. Expansion putting them back on fresh, loud sevens is more than housekeeping; it’s preservation, and it gives a new crowd the chance to drop the needle on originals without the original-only price tag.

So, whether you came up on a rare groove in ’87, caught the modern soul bug later, or you’re brand new and just hear the magic in a four-minute A-side, this run has your number. Six seven-inch wonders, built for the moment when the lights drop, the floor opens, and the chorus you thought you only knew from comps suddenly explodes from a piece of spinning black plastic. That’s the miracle. Now make it real.

• A Rare Live Performance, On Video.  Live footage of these original Philly Soul legends, especially performing together outside the United States, is rare to the point of being almost mythical. This isn’t just a concert film; it’s a time capsule. For younger fans, it’s a chance to witness legends they’ve only heard on vinyl. For older fans, it’s a trip back to a golden era.
• B. An All-Star Line-Up in one collection.  It’s one thing to see any of these artists individually. To have them all in one show? That’s like soul music’s Avengers assembling. Each set flows naturally into the next, and the collaborations give the concert a festival-like feel, with the artists feeding off each other’s energy.
• C. A Preservation of Musical Legacy.  Some of these artists are no longer with us. This video is not just a performance, it’s a preservation of their craft, their stage presence, and their ability to connect. Every joke between songs, every spontaneous vocal riff, every cheer from the crowd, it’s all part of the living history.
• D. Expansion Records’ Seal of Quality.  Expansion Records is the UK’s leading soul label for a reason. They don’t just release music; they curate it. Their commitment to high-quality production and historically significant projects is clear here. The video runs a generous 1 hour and 41 minutes, ensuring nothing feels rushed or chopped.
• E. Emotional Depth and Musical Brilliance.  Philly Soul is as much about feeling as it is about sound. This performance brims with both. From Carne’s soaring vocals to Wansel’s masterful keys, Sigler’s charm to Paul’s gravitas, the emotional range is staggering. It’s an album you can watch, and that’s priceless.

Expansion Records has long been a trusted home for quality soul, jazz-funk, and R&B music. From reissuing legendary classics to introducing fresh talent, the label continues to bridge the past with the present. In today’s soul renaissance, Expansion is not only preserving heritage but also nurturing the next wave of artists who are redefining contemporary soul music. Among these standout voices are Patrice Isley and Ashley Scott, two dynamic artists whose unique soundscapes, lyrical depth, and emotional resonance are making waves across global soul charts.

In this feature, we take a closer look at their artistry, their journey, and what it means to be part of the Expansion Records family,a label that continues to champion authentic, independent soul music.

Patrice Isley: A Voice of Soulful Introspection

Who is Patrice Isley?

Patrice Isley is no stranger to the industry. A classically trained musician, vocalist, songwriter, and producer, her career spans decades of work both behind the scenes and centre stage. Drawing comparisons to Anita Baker and Phyllis Hyman, her sound is warm, emotionally textured, and spiritually grounded. Her recent releases under Expansion Records have introduced her to a wider audience of soul aficionados seeking depth and elegance in modern R&B.

The Sound of Patrice Isley

Patrice’s music is drenched in sincerity and nuance. Her voice,earthy yet refined,carries stories of love, loss, hope, and healing. Standout tracks like her stunning cover of “Harvest For The World” and the soulful house original “Your Face Makes Me Smile” evoke a timeless sophistication, blending smooth jazz elements with contemporary soul rhythms. There’s an intentionality in her delivery, each note purposefully placed, reminding us that real soul music is a conversation, not just a performance.

She weaves personal reflection with universal themes, making her music not only relatable but deeply restorative. Her instrumentation is lush but uncluttered,highlighting her vocals rather than overpowering them. You feel every word.

Patrice Isley states: “Being part of the Expansion Records family means the world to me. With over 40 years of championing iconic voices and extraordinary talent, Expansion has carved out a legacy that is nothing short of legendary. To have my music released under this label is not just an honour — it feels like a divine blessing and is something I hold in the highest regard.

Given my last name, Isley, and my own journey working alongside some of the greats — many of whom have appeared on Expansion’s much-anticipated Luxury Soul compilations — this partnership feels beautifully serendipitous. The exposure to an overseas market has been an incredible bridge, expanding not just my reach, but my connection to a whole new audience.

Meeting the iconic Ralph Tee in person, along with some of the label’s passionate listeners and fans at the Luxury Soul Weekender, was a moment of realisation — the impact and reach of Expansion Records is profound. I’m deeply grateful to Expansion for believing in my music.”

What Patrice Isley Brings to Expansion Records

Patrice Isley adds a richness to Expansion’s catalogue,a sound that sits comfortably between classic quiet storm and modern soul lounge. Her music aligns with the label’s ethos of releasing “music with meaning,” and she embodies the type of artist who matures with every project, offering lasting value to soul fans worldwide.

Expansion’s support of Patrice is a testament to their ongoing commitment to nurturing artists who carry soul music’s emotional and spiritual torch forward. With expertly crafted arrangements and heartfelt lyricism, Isley’s work under the label positions her as one of the most compelling new voices in adult contemporary soul with a nod to the Isley Brothers of which she is distantly related.

Ashley Scott: The Sophisticated smooth stylist of Modern Soul

Introducing Ashley Scott

Ashley Scott is part of a new generation of soul singers who understand the genre’s traditions while confidently crafting its future. Based in Philadelphia,a city steeped in soul history,Scott blends smooth R&B grooves with lyrical intimacy and stylish production. His partnership with Expansion Records marks a pivotal chapter in his growth as an international artist.

Ashley Scott’s Signature Style

With a voice reminiscent of 1980s R&B greats like Luther Vandross and Alexander O’Neal, Ashley brings suave, polished vocals to every track. His music is heartfelt yet rhythmically infectious,making him equally at home on quiet storm playlists and uptempo dance floors.

Tracks such as “Words”, “Dance The Night Away”, and “Together” showcase his versatility. Whether delivering a romantic ballad or a mid-tempo jam, Ashley’s performances are consistently smooth, sincere, and soulful.

His 2025 EP, “Love You For All Time”released through Expansion, received critical acclaim for its production quality and lyrical richness. The project stands as a strong statement of his identity,offering groove-laden, emotionally intelligent R&B that speaks directly to the heart.

Ashey says: “Having my album ‘Love You For All Time’ released on Expansion Records in the UK is not just a career milestone, it’s a spiritual and artistic full-circle moment. This journey began when I reached out to Ralph Tee about reissuing the four classic albums by the legendary Webster Lewis, one of the great architects of soulful jazz. Ralph not only welcomed the dialogue but honored me by inviting me to contribute to the liner notes (a gesture that set the tone for a relationship built on mutual respect and a shared love for timeless music). He then included my debut single “Words” on Luxury Soul 2017, and later my global anthem “Don’t Throw Our Love Away” on Luxury Soul 2023, giving my voice a home among the genre’s finest. To now be releasing a full album like ‘Love You For All Time’, a project rooted in legacy, love, and lyrical truth, on the same label that represents my mentor Jean Carne, who now calls me her “label mate”, and carries the memory of my late friend and mentor Nathan Heathman, whose ‘Right Here Right Now’ graced Expansion in 2001, is profoundly meaningful. This album is more than music, it’s a tribute to the lineage I come from, the mentors who paved the way, and the soul tradition I’m honored to continue on a label that truly understands its power.” 

Expansion Records and Ashley Scott’s Rise

Being part of the Expansion family has amplified Ashley Scott’s presence in the UK and European soul scenes, where discerning listeners still value high-quality, independent R&B. Through the label’s distribution and promotional networks, Scott’s music has charted, gained international radio play and festival bookings that continue to expand his reach.

Ashley’s addition to the label isn’t just about chart success,it’s about longevity. Expansion understands how to build artists with integrity, not just hype. Their partnership ensures that Ashley’s catalogue will be curated, protected, and cherished by fans who value artistry over algorithm.

Expansion Records: Nurturing New Soul Talent

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded by Ralph Tee and Richard Searling, Expansion Records has been at the forefront of the UK’s soul music landscape since the 1980s. The label has always struck a delicate balance between honouring legacy acts, such as Leon Ware, Phyllis Hyman, and Linda Clifford,and discovering the stars of tomorrow.

This dual focus sets Expansion apart. Rather than chasing trends, they cultivate careers. Their dedication to vinyl, liner notes, and curation resonates with listeners who see music as more than just content,it’s culture.

Why Expansion Matters for Contemporary Artists

For artists like Patrice Isley and Ashley Scott, joining Expansion Records isn’t just a business move,it’s a badge of honour. It signals that your work aligns with a heritage of excellence. It says you’re not here to play the game; you’re here to shape it.

Expansion provides:

• Global distribution and PR focused on adult soul audiences
• Vinyl and digital releases that cater to collectors and streamers alike
• Radio and playlist promotion through tastemakers in the UK, Japan, and Europe
• A loyal audience base of soul heads who actively buy, share, and support music that moves them

The Future of Soul is Now

The emergence of artists like Patrice Isley and Ashley Scott under the Expansion Records banner sends a clear message: soul music isn’t stuck in the past,it’s thriving in the present.

What unites both artists is not only their vocal prowess but their understanding of soul as storytelling. Their lyrics explore vulnerability, resilience, connection, and passion,reminding us that the best soul music reveals the human experience in all its complexities.

In an industry often driven by viral hits and fleeting fame, Expansion’s focus on real talent, real stories, and real sound gives space to voices that deserve to be heard. And in Patrice and Ashley, the label has two gems that exemplify everything soul music should be: heartfelt, timeless, and true.

Listen, Support, and Share

Want to discover more?

• Explore Patrice Isley’s music on expansionrecords.com.
• Dive into Ashley Scott’s catalogue, also on expansionrecords.com
• Follow Expansion Records on social media for the latest releases and updates from the UK soul scene.
• Purchase limited edition vinyl releases and exclusive CDs from expansionrecords.com.

When you support an independent soul artist, you're not just buying music, you’re keeping an artform alive.

Final Thoughts

Expansion Records continues to do what few labels dare to do in 2025, invest in real music by real artists for real listeners. Through Patrice Isley and Ashley Scott, the label is breathing new life into contemporary soul, providing platforms for sophisticated storytelling, world-class vocals, and an unshakeable groove.

These are not just new voices in soul; they are the next classics in the making.

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