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)
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.
Everybody Plays the Foolthe main ingredient
A groovy, soulful track from The Main Ingredient, formed in Harlem, New York in 1964.
Released in June 1972, this song wraps a universally relatable heartache in a sweet, gentle, and soulful melody.
Cuba Gooding Sr.’s emotionally rich lead vocals blend beautifully with the group’s meticulous harmonies to create a gem of a sound that reached No.
3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
2 on the R&B chart.
Featured on the album “Bitter Sweet,” the track has been widely used in film and television soundtracks, and Aaron Neville’s 1991 cover also became a hit.
It’s a song that quietly stays by your side on nights when your heart is in motion.
Great Soul Music Singers and Artists (31–40)
Billie JeanMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson, a quintessential American entertainer, left an indelible mark on music history.
With a unique style that fused pop, R&B, soul, and more, he captivated audiences around the world.
He debuted in 1964 as the lead vocalist of The Jackson 5 and launched his solo career in 1979.
He rose to prominence with the landmark album Off the Wall, and Thriller went on to sell over 65 million copies worldwide, setting a world record.
He won 13 Grammy Awards and solidified his status as a global superstar.
His innovative sound and dance performances transformed the music scene, and his commitment to social contribution—supporting 39 charitable organizations—has deeply touched countless hearts.
A true artist, he is highly recommended for anyone seeking to explore new possibilities in music and entertainment.
In conclusion
The great artists and singers of soul music are far too many to cover in a single article, and as I mentioned at the beginning, countless wonderful talents have continued to emerge even after the 2000s.
You might like trendy R&B but not know much about the legends of classic soul music—if this article has been helpful to people like that, I’m delighted!