7 Best Soul Music Albums of All Time
Music is often called the universal language. It can bring people together from all walks of life, no matter what they’re going through. And when it comes to soul music, there’s nothing quite like it. Soul music has a way of speaking to the heart and emotions as no other genre can.
It’s a timeless sound that has its roots in gospel, R&B, and blues. If you’re looking for something to uplift your spirits or soothe your soul, these are the best soul music albums of all time.
Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On
Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On is one of the most important and influential soul albums of all time. Released in 1971, the album was a departure from Gaye’s earlier Motown sound and featured more personal and political lyrics.
The title track was a hit single and an anthem for the anti-war movement, while other songs like “Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)” addressed urban poverty and police brutality. What’s Going On is a timeless classic that helped define the sound of soul music.
Aretha Franklin – I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin's 1967 album, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, is widely considered one of the greatest soul albums of all time. The album features some of Franklin's most iconic tracks, including "Respect", "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)", and "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man".
“I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You” was a commercial and critical success, reaching #1 on the Billboard 200 and winning two Grammy Awards. To listen to this and other great songs mentioned in this post, head over to this mp3 download (Links to an external site.) website and simply search for these songs. You can first listen to these songs and decide which are worth downloading- it’s absolutely free.
Otis Redding – Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul
If there's one album on this list that truly encapsulates the sound and feel of soul music, it's Otis Redding's Otis Blue. Recorded in 1965, the album features some of Redding's most popular and well-loved songs, including "I've Been Loving You Too Long," "Respect," and "Satisfaction."
With its mix of heart-wrenching ballads and uptempo numbers, Otis Blue perfectly captures the emotional range of soul music. And Redding's powerful vocals are backed by some of the best musicians in the business, including Steve Cropper on guitar and Booker T. & The MGs on drums and keyboard.
Al Green – Call Me
Al Green's 1974 album, Call Me, is widely considered to be one of the best soul music albums of all time. The album features the classic hits "Love and Happiness" and "Let's Stay Together", as well as the lesser known but equally excellent tracks "Call Me (Come Back Home)" and "So Good to Be Here".
Call Me was Green's ninth studio album, and was recorded during a particularly fertile period in his career. He had recently switched labels, moving from Hi Records to Columbia, and was working with producer Willie Mitchell, with whom he would go on to have some of his greatest successes. The result was an album that perfectly blended Green's smooth vocals with Mitchell's tight funk arrangements.
Sam Cooke – Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963
In 1963, Sam Cooke was at the top of his game. His live album, Live at the Harlem Square Club, is a testament to his immense talent. The album was recorded over two nights at the club, and it captures the raw energy and emotion of Cooke's performances.
From the opening track, "A Change Is Gonna Come", to the closing number, "Having a Party", this album is a must-have for any fan of soul music.
Stax/Volt Revue – In Europe
In May of 1966, the Stax/Volt Revue embarked on a two-month tour of Europe. The revue was a showcase of the label's talent, featuring Booker T. & The MGs, Sam & Dave, Otis Redding, and many others. The tour was a huge success, with sold-out shows and rave reviews from the European press.
The live album 'Stax/Volt Revue - In Europe' captures the energy and excitement of the tour, and is considered to be one of the best live soul albums ever recorded. If you're a fan of soul music, this album is essential listening.
James Brown – Live at the Apollo
Released in 1963, James Brown's "Live at the Apollo" is widely considered one of the greatest soul music albums of all time. Recorded live at Harlem's Apollo Theater, the album captures Brown and his band at the height of their powers, delivering an electrifying performance that brings the house down.
From start to finish, "Live at the Apollo" is a tour de force of soul music, packed with hit singles like "I'll Go Crazy," "Baby You're Right," and "Please, Please, Please." With its raw energy and explosive musicianship, "Live at the Apollo" remains a timeless document of James Brown and his legendary band in action.