Philly soul classics | A wave of sweet soul music arrives

Enjoy YourselfThe Jacksons

The Jacksons – Enjoy Yourself (Official Video)

Philly soul isn’t the exclusive domain of Sigma Sound Studios.

Even the famed Motown label released Philly soul tracks.

One I especially recommend is “Enjoy Yourself.” It’s a Jackson 5 song—featuring the King of Pop, Michael Jackson—and it blends R&B with Philly soul into an irresistibly upbeat melody.

Definitely give it a listen.

Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us NowMcFadden & Whitehead

McFadden & Whitehead – Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now (Official Audio)

The golden age of Philly soul is said to be the 1970s.

After that, rock and R&B took over the mainstream, but there was a Philly soul duo that thrived even in that era: McFadden & Whitehead, who sang “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now.” It’s a classic that blends the sweet vocals of Philly soul with a disco-tinged track to match the early ’80s disco boom.

You’ll also hear many phrases that connect directly to today’s R&B, so keep an ear out for those as well.

What You Won’t Do for LoveBobby Caldwell

WHAT YOU WON’T DO FOR LOVE

Bobby Caldwell is one of the singers who represents AOR and blue-eyed soul.

Although he was white, he gained popularity with an authentic R&B sound.

Among his works, this song is surely the timeless classic that continues to shine.

Its straightforward and passionate message—doing anything for the one you love—really strikes a chord.

The smooth melody and distinctive horn section create a sophisticated, romantic mood.

Released as a single from his debut album “Bobby Caldwell” in September 1978, it’s also famous for the anecdote that it was written in just two days.

I think it’s a perfect song for a leisurely holiday atmosphere.

Me and Mrs. JonesBilly Paul

Billy Paul – Me and Mrs. Jones (Official Audio)

When it comes to singers who represent Philly soul, many people probably think of Billy Paul.

He excelled at the genre’s signature trait—smooth, sweet vocals—and all of his works exude an extraordinary sensuality.

One of his most iconic tracks is Me and Mrs.

Jones.

It’s also known as a quintessential Philly soul song, beginning with a sweet, jazz-like intro and unleashing soulful intensity just before the chorus.

You Are EverythingThe stylistics

The Stylistics – You Are Everything (Official Lyric Video)

Philly soul encompasses many styles of classic songs, but among them, sweet and romantic melodies are known as the quintessential Philly soul.

“You Are Everything” is a staple of the genre and has been loved for many years.

The group The Stylistics, who perform it, are so renowned for their sweet melodies that they’re often labeled as sweet soul.

Don’t you think this song clearly conveys that very characteristic of theirs?

Close The DoorTeddy Pendergrass

Teddy Pendergrass – Close The Door (Official HD Video)

Teddy Pendergrass, an R&B singer known for his husky, deep voice, left a strong impression.

His vocal style, which shares many qualities with contemporary R&B, influenced countless artists.

Among his body of work, a particularly recommended classic is “Close the Door.” While it’s categorized as R&B, I picked it because it shares characteristics with the then-booming Philly soul.

Enjoy his vocals, which exude sensuality amid their fiery intensity.

Theme from the PlanetsDexter Wansel

Dexter Wansel – Theme from the Planets (Official Audio)

Dexter Wansel is an artist whose overwhelming musicality influenced not only the soul scene but the music world as a whole.

Though known as a jazz-fusion vocalist, he also works as an arranger and composer, exploring a wide range of genres in his productions.

Among his works, one that especially exudes the flavor of Philly soul is “Theme from the Planets.” Blending nu-jazz with Philly soul, it’s a masterpiece that conveys both sweetness and a refined, grown-up cool.