Top 10 Best Soul Songs of All Time

Soul songs music is a genre that has been embraced by music lovers around the world for decades. From the classic hits of the 60s and 70s to the contemporary sounds of today, soul music continues to captivate listeners with its emotive lyrics, smooth melodies, and unmistakable rhythm.

In this article, we're going to take you on a soulful journey through the history of this iconic music genre as we explore the 10 best soul songs of all time. This journey not only showcases the best soul songs ever but also highlights the popular soul songs that have shaped the genre.

1. Index

   1. "Respect" by Aretha Franklin (Soul Songs)
   2. "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye
   3. "A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke
   4. "My Girl" by The Temptations (Soul Songs)
   5. "Let's Stay Together" by Al Green
   6. "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding
   7. "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye
   8. "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King (Soul Songs)
   9. "I'll Be There" by The Jackson 5
   10. "I Say a Little Prayer" by Aretha Franklin

   "Respect" by Aretha Franklin (Soul Songs)

First up on our best soul songs of all time list is the legendary Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin, with her timeless classic "Respect". Released in 1967, this song quickly became an anthem for civil rights and women's empowerment. Franklin's powerful voice, coupled with the iconic guitar riff and driving beat, make "Respect" an enduring classic.

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2. "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye

Next on our list is Marvin Gaye's hauntingly beautiful "I Heard It Through the Grapevine". Originally recorded by Gladys Knight & The Pips, Gaye's version was released in 1968 and became an instant classic. The soulful melody, coupled with Gaye's emotive vocals, make this song a standout in the genre.

3. "A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke

Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come" is a soulful ballad that captures the struggles and hopes of the civil rights movement. Cooke's emotive vocals, coupled with the song's powerful message, make it a standout in the top soul songs of all time. Released in 1964, this song has remained relevant and inspiring for decades.

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4. "My Girl" by The Temptations (Soul Songs)

"My Girl" by The Temptations is a classic soul song that never fails to get listeners grooving. Released in 1965, this song features a catchy melody, smooth vocals, and a driving beat that makes it a must-listen for any fan of the genre.

5. "Let's Stay Together" by Al Green

Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" is a soulful love song that has become a staple at weddings and romantic occasions around the world. Released in 1972, this song features Green's smooth vocals, coupled with a catchy melody and a laid-back groove that make it a timeless classic.

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6. "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding

"Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding is a soulful ballad that captures the bittersweet feelings of longing and hope. Released in 1968, just months after Redding's untimely death, this song has become an enduring classic, with its emotive vocals and memorable whistling solo.

7. "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" is a soulful protest song that captures the social and political turmoil of the 70s. Released in 1971, this song features Gaye's emotive vocals, coupled with a powerful message and a memorable melody that make it an enduring classic.

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8. "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King (Soul Songs)

"Stand By Me" by Ben E. King is a soulful classic that has become a staple in popular culture, appearing in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials. Released in 1961, this song features King's powerful vocals, coupled with a memorable melody and a timeless message of friendship and love.

9. "I'll Be There" by The Jackson 5

"I'll Be There" by The Jackson 5 is a soulful ballad that captures the youthful energy and talent of this iconic group. Released in 1970, this song features Michael Jackson's emotive vocals, coupled with a catchy melody and a driving beat that make it a standout in the top 10 soul songs.

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10. "I Say a Little Prayer" by Aretha Franklin

Last but certainly not least, we have another iconic hit from the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin's "I Say a Little Prayer". Originally written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Franklin's 1968 version features her powerful vocals, coupled with a catchy melody and a driving beat that make it an enduring classic and one of the best soul songs of all time.

In conclusion, these 10 soulful classics have stood the test of time, capturing the hearts and minds of music lovers around the world. From Aretha Franklin's empowering "Respect" to Ben E. King's timeless "Stand By Me", these songs continue to inspire and entertain generations of listeners, making them the best soul songs ever and an essential part of any popular soul songs collection. So sit back, relax, and let the soulful sounds of these iconic hits take you on a journey through the history of this beloved music genre.

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