This playlist was inspired by the 2026 Power of Music Honors Health & Wellness Honoree, Dr. Žak Ozmo, whose work in neuroaesthetics explores the connection between music, the brain, and overall well-being. Created in collaboration with the Soulsville Foundation, this “sound prescription” is designed as a practical guide for using music to support grounding, connection, energy, and resilience in everyday life.
Rooted in the spirit of Soulsville and the enduring influence of Stax Records, this collection invites you to engage with music not just as entertainment, but as a tool for care, reflection, and renewal.
Press play, explore, and experience the power of music in a new way.
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HOW TO USE THIS PLAYLIST
Start at the beginning for a full journey, or go directly to what you need:
Grounding → Connection → Release → Energy → Joy → Strength
A STAX Sound Prescription – Vol. 1
Soulsville Foundation’s Power of Music Honors x Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics
A thoughtfully curated listening experience designed to support grounding, connection, energy, and resilience — your take-home guide to the power of music.
ARRIVAL / GROUNDING
Use when: overwhelmed, anxious, mentally scattered
1. “I’ll Take You There” – The Staple Singers
2. “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” – Otis Redding
3. “Soul Limbo” – Booker T. & the MGs
4. “Green Onions” – Booker T. & the MGs
Effect: settles attention, reduces stress, brings the body into balance
CONNECTION
Use when: lonely, disconnected, needing warmth
5. “When Something Is Wrong With My Baby” – Sam & Dave
6. “Private Number” – William Bell & Judy Clay
7. “Cause I Love You” – Rufus & Carla Thomas
8. “So I Can Love You” – The Emotions
Effect: enhances emotional connection, trust, and social bonding
EMOTIONAL RELEASE
Use when: holding tension, sadness, or emotional pressure
9. “Try a Little Tenderness” – Otis Redding
10. “I’ve Never Found a Girl” – Al Green
11. “After the Laughter (Comes Tears)” – Wendy Rene
12. “I Forgot to Be Your Lover” – William Bell
Effect: supports emotional processing, release, and reset
ENERGY / MOTIVATION
Use when: tired, unfocused, or needing momentum
13. “Soul Man” – Sam & Dave
14. “Hold On, I’m Comin’” – Sam & Dave
15. “Knock On Wood” – Eddie Floyd
16. “Philly Dog” – The Mar-Keys
Effect: boosts energy, motivation, and forward movement
JOY / MOVEMENT
Use when: needing a lift, movement, or social energy
17. “Funky Chicken” – Rufus Thomas
18. “Hip Hug-Her” – Booker T. & the MGs
19. “Soul Finger” – The Bar-Kays
20. “Too Hot to Stop” – The Bar-Kays
Effect: releases endorphins, elevates mood, encourages movement
MEANING / STRENGTH
Use when: reflecting, seeking purpose, or building resilience
21. “Respect Yourself” – The Staple Singers
22. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” – Kim Weston
23. “When Will We Be Paid” – The Staple Singers
24. “Theme from Shaft” – Isaac Hayes
Effect: reinforces identity, purpose, and emotional strength