MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) - Songwriter David Porter says he is starting a Memphis-based national program to mentor young musicians.
Porter, who co-wrote the soul classics "Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin'," announced the program Tuesday at the Memphis Chamber of Commerce.
Porter said the program, called the The Consortium MMT, will develop a talent pool of young musicians though mentorships with music industry veterans. Porter said he hopes the program will help restore Memphis' reputation as a capital of soul music.
Stax Records created what is called the "Memphis sound," with artists such as Sam & Dave, Otis Redding, Booker T. and the MGs and Isaac Hayes, who was Porter's songwriting partner.
Among those involved in the program are drummer Steve Jordan, songwriter-producer Ray Parker Jr., saxophonist Kirk Whalum and rapper Al Kapone.
