Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
The great artists who illuminated the American music scene.
From Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and Stevie Wonder—legendary singers whose timeless masterpieces live on—to modern torchbearers of soul like Bruno Mars and D’Angelo.
We invite you into the world of soul music, where captivating vocals and irresistibly groovy sounds resonate deep in your heart.
Enjoy a musical journey filled with emotion and excitement.
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Legends of Soul Music: A Look Back at Its History and Allure Through Classic Songs (71–80)
Wake Up EverybodyHarold Melvin & The Blue Notes
Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, the vocal group that epitomizes Philadelphia (Philly) soul.
The lead vocalist in this footage is Teddy Pendergrass, who later went solo and achieved great success.
This socially conscious song has been covered by many artists, including John Legend.
Never Too MuchLuther Vandross
Luther Vandross was highly acclaimed not only as an artist but also as a sound creator.
Although he passed away at the young age of 54, he continued to lead the R&B and soul scenes from the early days of his career right up until shortly before his death.
His greatest appeal was, above all, his smooth and gentle vocals.
They’re groovy, yet imbued with a mellow atmosphere.
That charm is also reflected in “Never Too Much.”
Everybody needs someone to LoveWilson Pickett
Soul music drew influence not only from its roots in gospel and spirituals but also from rock ’n’ roll, which was a contemporaneous form of Black music.
Wilson Pickett was an even greater shouter than Little Richard, the greatest rock ’n’ roller.
Proud MaryIke & Tina Turner
Ike & Tina Turner, often called the greatest entertainers in the history of soul music, thrilled countless audiences with performances that could even seem a bit risqué.
In this rendition of CCR’s smash hit Proud Mary, you can enjoy how it builds from a quiet opening to a full-on, heated climax.
Time is on my sideIrma Thomas
This song opens with an intro featuring a luxurious chorus.
Arma’s captivating vocals make it a standout track.
Arma is also known as the Soul Queen of New Orleans and is an artist who began her career in the 1960s.
Walk On ByIsaac Hayes
Isaac Hayes, a soul singer representing the state of Tennessee, was also a music producer who, together with his partner David Porter, produced and supplied numerous songs.
Starting in 1997, he began working as a voice actor on the animated series South Park.
He was remarkably versatile.
His classic track Walk On By, released in 1964, is a captivating work with a musical style that falls between soul and blues.
SuperstitionStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is a soul singer who enjoys tremendous popularity in Japan as well.
He’s one of the pioneers who sparked the so-called New Soul movement.
Alongside Marvin Gaye and Donny Hathaway, he helped lay the foundation for contemporary R&B and neo-soul.
His song “Superstition” is a work defined by its strikingly funky rhythm.
Though it sings about superstition, the melody is incredibly cool.
Even today, it feels fresh, with an innovative structure that never seems dated.