Blackpool Mecca — The Highland Room
Blackpool
Overview
Operated as a Northern Soul venue from 1967/1971. Levine and Curtis were known for pushing the scene toward new releases and more progressive sounds — a controversial but pivotal stance.
Signature Tracks
Landslide
Tony Clarke
Too Darn Soulful
Morris Chesnut
If That's What You Wanted
Frankie Beverly & the Butlers
There's a Ghost in My House
R. Dean Taylor
It Really Hurts Me Girl
The Carstairs
Cashin' In
Voices of East Harlem
Skiing in the Snow
The Invitations
Sliced Tomatoes
Just Brothers
Surf-guitar soul oddity
Cultural Impact
The Mecca vs. Casino rivalry was one of the defining tensions of the 1970s — described as "two branches of the same tree." The Mecca ran up to 50 coaches bringing people into Blackpool on Saturday nights.
Important Notes
Differed from Wigan Casino in musical philosophy: championed a more contemporary style and moved toward modern soul and jazz-funk.