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.
- A masterpiece of soul music. Recommended albums you should listen to at least once.
- Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
- [2026] Must-Listen R&B Masterpieces: From Timeless Classics to Recent Favorites
- Why Classic Disco Music Is Still Loved Today
- Classic and Contemporary Hits in Western R&B: From the Newest Popular Tracks to All-Time Big Hits [2026]
- Philly soul classics | A wave of sweet soul music arrives
- Classic R&B songs recommended for women
- A masterpiece of Japanese black music. A noteworthy work embodying the soul of black music.
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- [A Collection of Classics] Nostalgic 70s Western Hit Songs
Legends of Soul Music: History and Appeal Revisited Through Iconic Songs (111–120)
Please, Please, PleaseJames Brown
James Brown, who would later become known as the ‘Godfather of Funk,’ was originally a soul singer who released a large number of albums in the soul genre.
‘Please, Please, Please’ is one of his signature songs from his soul era.
Ordinary PeopleJohn Legend
When it comes to contemporary soul singers, isn’t John Legend the first name that comes to mind? Born in Ohio, he grew up with music in a church choir and has an unusual background: after graduating from college, he first took a regular job and then switched to a singing career.
By the way, he graduated from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania.
Being talented in both academics and music—talk about being doubly blessed! “Ordinary People,” released in 2004, is one of the signature songs from the early part of his career.
His style hasn’t really changed since then, so it’s a track I highly recommend even to those who only know the John Legend of today.
Funky TownLipps Inc
In Minneapolis, Stephen Greenberg—active as an instrumental player and founder of his own label, October Records—formed a group with Black female singer and saxophonist Cynthia Johnson.
Session guitarist David Rivkin then joined, and they made their debut in 1979 with the album “Mouth to Mouth.” When “Funky Town,” later included on the album, was released as their second single, it quickly climbed the U.S.
dance singles chart and, as a result, became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the U.S.
singles chart in 1980.
Never Stop DreamingMario Biondi
“Never Stop Dreaming” is a song by Mario Biondi, a soul singer from Sicily, Italy, included on the 2017 single “Stay With Me / Never Stop Dreaming.” It features a stylish sound that feels like a modern interpretation of 1970s soul, complemented by Mario’s alluring, rich low register.
He’s a seasoned talent who has also performed with the acid jazz band Incognito, so if you haven’t heard him yet, definitely give him a listen!
You lost the sweetest boyMary Wells
Mary Wells’s bright singing voice is captivating.
It’s a song that makes you feel happy just listening to it.
This track is included on the album “Mary Wells,” released in 1965.
The backing vocals on this song are performed by The Supremes and The Temptations.