The Golden Torch

[Macc]

The Golden Torch was the first truly great all-nighter venue of the Northern Soul era. Situated in Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, Torch DJ Keith Minshull persuaded club owner Chris Burton to abandon his band-based promotions in favour of the new Northern Soul sounds. The first nighter ran in March 1972. The 680-capacity venue sometimes packed in up to 1400 punters and, like the Twisted Wheel before it, showcased many of soul’s gretest live attractions, like Edwin Starr, Fontella Bass, the Elgins and James and Bobby Purify. Major Lance’s Decmeber 1972 gig was captured for posterity of the ‘Major Lance Live at The Torch’ album. The club was closed in March 1973.
Torch floorshakers: Sliced Tomatoes – Just Brothers; Our Love Is In The Pocket – JJ Barnes; ‘Quick Change Artist – the Soul Twins