A roundup of great soul music singers and artists
Soul music is a wonderful genre born in the United States, evolving from blues and gospel into a form of popular music that produced legendary singers, artists, and countless big hits that have gone down in music history.
Since the 1990s, genres like neo-soul have emerged, and the influence of soul music continues to flow strongly even now in the 2020s.
For those—especially beginners—who have become interested in soul music, we’ve put together an introduction to some of the most representative singers and artists.
If you want to experience the “soul” of great vocalists, be sure to check it out!
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Great Soul Music Singers and Artists (21–30)
Reach Out (I’ll Be There)Four Tops
From the landmark Motown album “Reach Out,” a soul-stirring, unforgettable classic was born.
The Four Tops—Detroit’s pride—deliver dramatic harmonies, crowned by lead singer Levi Stubbs’s emotionally charged baritone that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze.
Since its release in August 1966, the song has topped both the U.S.
and U.K.
charts, standing as a shining milestone in the history of soul music.
It was added to the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry in 2022, and it was also used as a campaign song for Joe Biden in the 2020 U.S.
presidential election, continuing to radiate a timeless, universal appeal.
It’s the perfect song for moments of doubt, when you need encouragement, or when you want to support someone.
Before I Let GoFrankie Beverly And Maze
A gem of a soul number about the sweet ache of a breakup has arrived from America’s Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.
Based in San Francisco, their signature track was included on the 1981 album Live in New Orleans.
Within a light, dance-floor-ready rhythm, it beautifully captures the complex feelings of a man wavering over the decision to part ways.
Gratitude and lingering attachment to a loved one, along with the strength to move forward, make a powerful impact.
The song has become a staple at weddings and family gatherings, and Beyoncé’s 2019 cover brought it renewed attention.
Blending happy memories with the poignancy of farewell, this love song is perfect for a calm night drive or for those moments just before saying goodbye to someone important.
Midnight Train to GeorgiaGladys Knight&The Pips
A masterpiece that would carve its name into the pantheon of soul was born in August 1973.
Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Gladys Knight & The Pips released a gem of a ballad that gently portrays the feelings of a man returning home after his Hollywood dreams fall apart, and the woman who chooses to live by his side.
Gladys Knight’s powerful yet warm vocals and The Pips’ exquisite harmonies bring the story vividly to life.
Featured on the album Imagination, the song won a Grammy and was highlighted in the film Summer of Soul.
It’s a soul-stirring track that resonates at life’s crossroads and in moments when you want to reaffirm the bond with someone you love.
ShotgunJr. Walker & The All Stars
A classic that epitomizes the golden age of soul music was born from Motown in the U.S.
in February 1965.
Led by Junior Walker, Junior Walker & the All Stars unleashed a powerful sound that held the No.
1 spot on the U.S.
R&B chart for four consecutive weeks.
The brilliant shine of the saxophone and the groove-laden rhythm create perfect harmony.
Because the scheduled singer didn’t show up, Junior Walker stepped in on vocals at the last minute—an accident that opened a new frontier for him as a singer.
The album of the same name, Shotgun, also garnered major acclaim and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002.
It’s the perfect track for firing up the dance floor or savoring authentic soul music that resonates with the heart.
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.
I’ll Take You ThereThe Staple Singers
This is a soul-stirring gem released in March 1972 by The Staple Singers, a gospel-soul group that epitomizes American music.
As a family band made up of a father and his children, their seamless harmonies and powerful groove captivate listeners and won’t let go.
Issued as a single from the album “Be Altitude: Respect Yourself,” the track was produced by Stax Records’ renowned Al Bell.
Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama, it skillfully weaves elements of funk and gospel to convey a message yearning for a world free of racial discrimination.
It reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its breezy, body-swaying sound makes it a perfect recommendation for anyone who wishes for peace through music.
Respect YourselfThe Staple Singers
A powerful message song urging self-respect and respect for others arrived from America’s The Staple Singers.
Released by Stax Records in October 1971, the track had a profound impact on African American communities in the aftermath of the civil rights movement.
Recorded with the Muscle Shoals rhythm section, its soulful vocals—infused with gospel essence over a funky groove—stir the heart.
It reached No.
12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
2 on the Hot Soul Singles chart, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002.
As an anthem that raises social issues while offering hope, it continues to shine undimmed today.
It’s a song to turn to when you need the courage to face forward or want to cherish your true self.