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)
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.
And The Beat Goes OnThe Whispers
The Whispers, a group that produced a masterpiece worthy of being called a pinnacle of soul music.
Formed in Los Angeles in 1963, they released this 1979 track—a powerful message song themed around moving forward in life.
Riding a sprightly beat, it sings of overcoming the pain of heartbreak and finding the courage to take a new step.
It reached No.
19 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100, topped the R&B chart at No.
1, and achieved a brilliant No.
2 in the UK.
In 2002, it was featured in the popular game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, becoming a beloved song across generations.
Whether you want to light up the dance floor or find gentle encouragement at a crossroads in life, it continues to stand by listeners as a reassuring anthem.
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.