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The article presents a definitive list of the best 50 soul songs of all time, featuring iconic tracks by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Stevie Wonder, and more.
- "I Got You (I Feel Good)" - James Brown
- "Respect" - Aretha Franklin
- "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" - Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
- "What's Going On" - Marvin Gaye
- "Try A Little Tenderness" - Otis Redding
- "Stand by Me" - Ben E. King
- "My Girl" - The Temptations
- "Sitting on The Dock of The Bay" - Otis Redding
- "Let's Stay Together" - Al Green
- "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag" - James Brown
"I Got You (I Feel Good)" is a song by American singer James Brown, released in 1965. It became one of Brown's signature songs and a defining record of the funk genre. The song's structure and Brown's shouting vocals established the conventions of funk music, which would go on to influence many other genres. Next: Best Albums of All Time (EVER)
"Respect" is a song originally written and recorded by Otis Redding in 1965, but it was Aretha Franklin's 1967 cover that became a classic. Franklin's version, with its feminist message and soulful delivery, became an anthem of the civil rights and women's rights movements. Next: Best Albums of All Time (EVER)
"Ain't No Mountain High Enough" is a song written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson and originally recorded in 1967 by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. The song became a hit and a Motown classic, known for its soaring vocals and romantic message of overcoming obstacles. Next: Best Meme Songs of All Time (Ever)
"What's Going On" is a song by Marvin Gaye, released in 1971. The song, which addresses the social and political issues of the time, was a departure from Gaye's previous Motown sound and marked a shift toward socially conscious music in popular culture. Next: Best 90s Songs: Greatest Hit Songs from the 90s
"Try a Little Tenderness" is a song written by Jimmy Campbell, Reg Connelly, and Harry M. Woods and first recorded by Ray Noble in 1932. Otis Redding's 1966 version is considered a classic, known for its soulful delivery and Redding's emotional performance. Next: Best Songs Of All Time (Famous & Iconic Songs)
"Stand by Me" is a song written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller and released in 1961. The song became a hit and a classic, known for its memorable bassline, gospel-inspired vocals, and message of friendship and loyalty. Next: Best Pump Up Songs (INSANE Hype Songs for Sports)
"My Girl" is a song by The Temptations, released in 1965. The song became one of the group's most successful and enduring hits, known for its catchy melody, romantic lyrics, and David Ruffin's lead vocals. Next: Best Songs to Wake Up To (Great Morning Songs)
"Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" is a song written by Otis Redding and Steve Cropper and released in 1968, shortly after Redding's death. The song became Redding's biggest hit and a classic, known for its memorable whistle intro, laid-back groove, and introspective lyrics. Next: Best Spanish Songs of All Time
"Let's Stay Together" is a song by Al Green, released in 1971. The song became Green's biggest hit and a soul classic, known for its smooth vocals, romantic lyrics, and simple, yet infectious melody. Next: Best Karaoke Duets of All Time
"Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" is a song by James Brown, released in 1965. The song marked a significant shift in Brown's music, introducing his funk sound and establishing him as a major figure in the genre. Next: Best Line Dance Songs
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- Respect — Aretha Franklin. Aretha Franklin - Respect (Official Lyric Video) Considered one of Aretha Franklin’s most famous songs, “Respect” wasn’t originally written for her.
- Let’s Stay Together — Al Green. Al Green - Let's Stay Together (Official Audio) Al Green’s 1972 hit made waves for its sheer sensuality. His vocals are the very definition of soulful.
- Living For The City — Stevie Wonder. Living For The City. Stevie Wonder is no stranger to fame, having made major inroads in the soul genre. “Living For The City” is in a league of its own.
- A Change is Gonna Come — Sam Cooke. Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come (Official Lyric Video) “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a quintessential soulful yearning, mournful, and raw.
We rank the top soul music songs of all time, including tracks from Otis Redding, Al Green and Aretha Franklin.
- Matthew Singer
From the most soulful vocals to the deepest lyrical messages, these artists continue to define what makes soul music so compelling and eternal. Dive into this handpicked selection that...
We’ve curated the ultimate lineup of the finest soul songs that’ll have you grooving and swaying in no time. From timeless classics to unforgettable hits, these tracks are like a musical time machine that’ll transport you to an era filled with soulful melodies and heart-touching lyrics.
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Playlist · Soul Classics - The Greatest Soul Songs · 60 items · 141.9K likes.
