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: History and Allure Revisited Through Classic Songs (41–50)
Stone RollinRaphael Saadiq
A quintessential American soul singer, Raphael Saadiq delivers a heartfelt cry of the soul that grips the listener from the first note.
This is the powerful title track from his album Stone Rollin’, which revives the classic soul sound of the 1960s through a modern lens.
It was released by Columbia Records in March 2011.
The commanding rhythm infused with blues and funk, the groovy bassline, and the weighty sonics woven by vintage Mellotron keys are truly stunning.
Meticulously crafted over the course of a year at his own studio in Los Angeles, this track is highly recommended for anyone who loves soul music.
It’s sure to satisfy listeners seeking the deeper flavors of music.
Legends of Soul Music: History and Allure Revisited Through Classic Songs (51–60)
I’ll Be ThereThe Jackson 5
The Jackson 5, which Michael Jackson belonged to, was a family band formed by brothers.
Michael Jackson, who took the lead vocals, had not yet gone through puberty during his time with the Jackson 5.
This is one of their songs that is among the best known today.
Papa was a rolling stoneThe Temptations
This song is one of the tracks on The Temptations’ 1972 album “All Directions.” Its long intro is striking.
The call-and-response between the lead vocal and the backing chorus makes it an interesting track.
It’s also known as psychedelic soul and funk.
Keep On Movin’Soul II Soul
As the end of the 1980s approached, Soul II Soul suddenly emerged from the UK and rapidly gained worldwide popularity.
Their music, which mixed mellow soul with the increasingly accepted house sound, was truly revolutionary.
Use MeBill Withers
By the time you get to the new soul around the era of Donny Hathaway, the boundaries of the soul genre were already beginning to be crossed, creating connections with other music like funk and fusion.
Bill Withers was one such artist as well.
Soul singerBarkays
A funk-style track by the Bar-Kays, a soul and R&B band active in America during the 1970s and ’80s.
The trumpet and electric guitar in the intro are particularly striking.
It’s an instrumental piece with the fun shout of “Soul Fingers.”
Out of SightJames Brown
Out of Sight is a 1964 single by James Brown, known as the Godfather of Soul and a pioneer of funk.
It also became the title track of his album Out of Sight released the same year.
This funk number features a blues-based chord progression paired with his signature soulful vocals and shouts, delivering an irresistible groove that makes you want to move.
If you’re exploring soul music, James Brown is essential—so if you haven’t heard this track yet, be sure to give it a listen!