The "Muscle Shoals sound" has been described as a blend of country, gospel and R & B, and originated at the Muscle Shoals Sound Studios, in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.

The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section was considered one of the finest studio rhythm sections in the world. Composed of Jimmy Johnson, guitar, Roger Hawkins, drums, David Hood, bass, and Barry Beckett, keyboards, the Rhythm Section was formed in 1967, playing sessions in New York, Nashville, and Muscle Shoals.

In 1969 they set up their own recording studio, calling it Muscle Shoals Sound Studios. They were the first rhythm section in the U.S. to have the unique concept of owning their own recording studio, as well as publishing and production companies.

They became world renowned as the musicians, and or producers, on such classics as "Respect" by Aretha Franklin, "Mustang Sally" by Wilson Pickett, "Kodachrome" by Paul Simon, "I'll Take You There" by The Staple Singers, "Old Time Rock and Roll" by Bob Seger, and many others. They played on over 500 LPs, garnering over 75 gold and platinum LPs.

Source: Alabama Music Hall of Fame