Mark Yates launches *Soul Mania* with a two-hour soul music journey spanning seven decades, opening with Teddy Pennebaker’s 1983 track and featuring deep cuts like Benny King’s 1975 classic *Supernatural Thing* and Leon Ware’s 1981 *Rockin’ You Eternally*. The show mixes timeless hits with rare grooves, including a 1967 Robert Parker track and a 2023 MF Robots cut, while celebrating Michael Jackson and Luther Vandross. Closing with the O’Jays’ *An Extraordinary Girl*, Yates signs off with a promise to return next week.

Mark Yates plays a mellow first hour featuring tracks from Alexander O’Neill, Baby White, Jermaine Jackson and others, including a dedication to James in Basildon with Alexander O’Neill’s *What Is This Thing Called Love*. The second hour shifts to upbeat funk and Latin jazz, with songs by MF Robots, Jermaine Jackson, Little Anthony and the Imperials, and a funky set including Lisa Stansfield’s *All Around the World*. The show closes with a smooth soul finale from Phyllis Hyman and a shout-out to listeners via Southend City Radio’s Facebook page.