Are you searching for the perfect soul songs to showcase your vocal talents? Finding the right mix of classic and modern soul tracks can be challenging. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll share a carefully curated list of the best soul songs for singers, from timeless classics to contemporary hits.

Our selection caters to various vocal ranges and styles, ensuring you’ll find songs that suit your voice and resonate with your audience.

We’ll explore iconic tracks from legendary artists like Aretha Franklin Marvin Gaye, and newer soul gems. By the end of this post, you’ll have a go-to list of soul songs to enhance your repertoire and captivate listeners at your next performance.

Best Soul Songs for Singing Today

1. A Change Is Gonna Come

This song, a powerful anthem for civil rights, captures the deep longing for social change. Its soulful melody and meaningful lyrics make it timeless.

• Artist: Sam Cooke
• Album: Ain’t That Good News

2. Let’s Stay Together

This smooth track effortlessly blends romance and soul, becoming a staple in love songs. It is celebrated for its soothing vocals and intimate tone.

• Artist: Al Green
• Album: Let’s Stay Together

3. Respect

Aretha Franklin transformed this Otis Redding song into an empowering anthem. Her commanding vocals set the standard for soul music and feminist empowerment.

• Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Album: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You

4. I’ve Been Loving You Too Long

Otis Redding’s raw emotion is fully displayed in this song, blending sorrow with deep affection. It’s a soul ballad that speaks to enduring love and heartache.

• Artist: Otis Redding
• Album: Otis Blue

5. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

A vibrant duet, this song celebrates perseverance and love’s unshakable bond. Its energetic rhythm and harmonized vocals have cemented it as a classic.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
• Album: United

6. Superstition

Stevie Wonder’s funk-infused masterpiece became an iconic track with its infectious groove and timeless message about false beliefs.

• Artist: Stevie Wonder
• Album: Talking Book

7. I Heard It Through the Grapevine

This soulful track is filled with tension and heartbreak, with Gaye’s delivery elevating it to a timeless expression of betrayal.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: In the Groove

8. Sitting on the Dock of the Bay

Otis Redding’s sad reflection on life is beautifully set against the calmness of the sea, a song that captures both peace and loneliness.

• Artist: Otis Redding
• Album: The Dock of the Bay

9. Midnight Train to Georgia

This stirring track tells the story of a person’s journey to reclaim a lost love, highlighting the sacrifices made for companionship.

• Artist: Gladys Knight & The Pips
• Album: Imagination

10. What’s Going On

This socially conscious anthem is as relevant today as in 1971, speaking to the world’s unrest and confusion through soulful instrumentation.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: What’s Going On

11. Lean on Me

With its simple yet uplifting message of friendship and support, this song has become a timeless anthem for solidarity.

• Artist: Bill Withers
• Album: Still Bill

12. Sexual Healing

This sultry track marked Gaye’s significant comeback. It blended sensuality with soul to create one of his best-known songs.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: Midnight Love

13. At Last

Etta James’ deeply romantic voice shines in this classic ballad, making it one of the most beloved songs in soul and jazz.

• Artist: Etta James
• Album: At Last!

14. Try a Little Tenderness

A masterclass in vocal dynamics, Otis Redding captures the complexity of love and tenderness with this moving performance.

• Artist: Otis Redding
• Album: Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul

15. Natural Woman

A heartfelt tribute to love and identity, Aretha Franklin’s powerful delivery turned this song into a universal anthem for women.

• Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Album: Lady Soul

16. I Want You

This romantic track showcases Gaye’s smooth vocals, making it essential to soul music’s expression of passion and desire.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: I Want You

17. I Got You (I Feel Good)

James Brown’s infectious energy shines in this song, making it one of the most recognizable soul hits, with its funky beat and exuberant delivery.

• Artist: James Brown
• Album: Out of Sight

18. Knock on Wood

With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, this track blends soul and funk in a way that has kept it relevant for decades.

• Artist: Eddie Floyd
• Album: Knock on Wood

19. Ain’t Too Proud to Beg

The Temptations’ tight harmonies and powerful vocals tell a story of desperation and heartache, making it a standout in the Motown catalog.

• Artist: The Temptations
• Album: Gettin’ Ready

20. Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag

James Brown revolutionized music with this funky, soulful track, marking a turning point for soul music with its fresh, dynamic sound.

• Artist: James Brown
• Album: Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag

21. Chain of Fools

Aretha Franklin’s sharp, fiery vocals bring this song to life, creating a classic that speaks to betrayal and heartache with unmatched intensity.

• Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Album: Lady Soul

22. You Are the Sunshine of My Life

With its bright melody and tender lyrics, this joyful song remains one of Stevie Wonder’s most beloved tracks.

• Artist: Stevie Wonder
• Album: Talking Book

23. Tired of Being Alone

This track showcases Al Green’s ability to balance vulnerability and strength in his voice, making it an iconic soul song.

• Artist: Al Green
• Album: Al Green Gets Next to You

24. When a Man Loves a Woman

This soulful ballad of devotion and love is an essential track in Percy Sledge’s career, captivating listeners with its heartfelt emotion.

• Artist: Percy Sledge
• Album: When a Man Loves a Woman

25. I’ll Be Around

The Spinners deliver a message of loyalty and devotion in this timeless soul hit, underpinned by smooth harmonies and memorable lyrics.

• Artist: The Spinners
• Album: Spinners

26. Reach Out, I’ll Be There

This song declares steadfast love and support, driven by The Four Tops’ powerful vocal delivery and rich instrumentation.

• Artist: The Four Tops
• Album: Reach Out

27. I Say a Little Prayer

A beautifully delicate and poignant song, Aretha Franklin’s rendition added layers of emotion and depth to this timeless piece.

• Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Album: Aretha Now

28. Ain’t No Sunshine

Bill Withers’ soulful voice transforms this song into a haunting expression of longing and loss, making it an unforgettable classic.

• Artist: Bill Withers
• Album: Just As I Am

29. This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)

Natalie Cole’s upbeat and cheerful voice shines in this joyful anthem of love and happiness, a track that continues to resonate today.

• Artist: Natalie Cole
• Album: Inseparable

30. My Girl

The Temptations’ smooth harmonies and the song’s lighthearted lyrics have made this an enduring classic, beloved for its sweetness and charm.

• Artist: The Temptations
• Album: The Temptations Sing Smokey

31. Just My Imagination

This soulful ballad about unrequited love blends The Temptations’ signature harmonies with a sense of longing and hope.

• Artist: The Temptations
• Album: Sky’s the Limit

32. People Get Ready

Curtis Mayfield’s gentle voice delivers a message of hope and resilience in this gospel-infused track, calling for unity and perseverance.

• Artist: Curtis Mayfield
• Album: People Get Ready

33. Let’s Get It On

Marvin Gaye blends passion and sensuality in this iconic soul song, cementing it as one of his most celebrated and enduring hits.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: Let’s Get It On

34. Stand by Me

Ben E. King’s timeless track speaks of unwavering support and loyalty, blending love and resilience into a powerful soul anthem.

• Artist: Ben E. King
• Album: Don’t Play That Song!

35. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay

It is a reflective and melancholy track by Otis Redding, capturing the peace and loneliness of waiting for change.

• Artist: Otis Redding
• Album: The Dock of the Bay

36. Let’s Groove

Earth, Wind & Fire brought disco and soul together in this upbeat anthem, full of energy and dance-worthy grooves.

• Artist: Earth, Wind & Fire
• Album: Raise!

37. Lovely Day

Bill Withers’ smooth vocals and the uplifting vibe of this song make it a soul classic for celebrating life and happiness.

• Artist: Bill Withers
• Album: Menagerie

38. The Tracks of My Tears

Smokey Robinson & The Miracles tell a heart-wrenching tale of hidden sorrow, capturing the essence of emotional vulnerability.

• Artist: Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
• Album: Going to a Go-Go

39. If You Don’t Know Me by Now

This track by Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes is a soulful ballad about relationship troubles. It resonates with honesty and longing.

• Artist: Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
• Album: I Miss You

40. Back Stabbers

The O’Jays blend a tale of deceit with a catchy groove, making this soul track an unforgettable hit about trust and betrayal.

• Artist: The O’Jays
• Album: Back Stabbers

41. Get Ready

This Motown hit by The Temptations combines high energy with tight harmonies, delivering an irresistible call to action.

• Artist: The Temptations
• Album: Gettin’ Ready

42. I Only Have Eyes for You

The Flamingos’ dreamy vocals make this song a soothing and romantic soul ballad, loved for its simplicity and elegance.

• Artist: The Flamingos
• Album: Flamingo Serenade

43. Stop! In the Name of Love

The Supremes blended passion and caution in this Motown hit, with Diana Ross’ voice commanding attention.

• Artist: The Supremes
• Album: More Hits by The Supremes

44. For the Love of You

The Isley Brothers’ smooth and romantic ballad showcases the group’s versatility, effortlessly blending funk, soul, and R&B.

• Artist: The Isley Brothers
• Album: The Heat Is On

45. Let’s Go Crazy

Prince infused this high-energy track with his unique blend of soul, funk, and rock, making it a timeless party anthem.

• Artist: Prince
• Album: Purple Rain

46. Use Me

Bill Withers’ gritty vocals in this track express raw emotion and vulnerability, delivering a relatable and unforgettable message.

• Artist: Bill Withers
• Album: Still Bill

47. Cruisin’

This laid-back song by Smokey Robinson captures the essence of romantic bliss with smooth, silky vocals.

• Artist: Smokey Robinson
• Album: Where There’s Smoke…

48. Love Train

The O’Jays call for unity and love in this upbeat and optimistic track, creating a soul classic with a positive message.

• Artist: The O’Jays
• Album: Back Stabbers

49. Don’t Let the Green Grass Fool You

Wilson Pickett’s soulful voice shines in this cautionary tale about appearances and the temptation of greener pastures.

• Artist: Wilson Pickett
• Album: Don’t Knock My Love

50. Do Right Woman, Do Right Man

Aretha Franklin’s powerful vocals in this song explore the complexities of love and the balance of respect and commitment in relationships.

• Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Album: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You

51. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

This hauntingly soulful track by Marvin Gaye delivers a powerful commentary on the struggles of urban life.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: What’s Going On

52. Proud Mary

Tina Turner’s energetic and soulful rendition of this classic showcases her vocal power and unmatched stage presence.

• Artist: Ike & Tina Turner
• Album: Workin’ Together

53. Ain’t That Peculiar

Marvin Gaye’s smooth vocals shine in this upbeat track, capturing the paradoxes of love with soulful grooves.

• Artist: Marvin Gaye
• Album: Moods of Marvin Gaye

54. I’m Still in Love with You

Al Green delivers a heartfelt performance in this soulful love ballad, marked by his signature smooth falsetto.

• Artist: Al Green
• Album: I’m Still in Love with You

55. Could It Be I’m Falling in Love

The Spinners’ harmonies elevate this romantic tune, capturing the excitement and warmth of falling in love.

• Artist: The Spinners
• Album: Spinners

56. Sweet Soul Music

Arthur Conley’s tribute to soul legends is a joyful celebration of the genre, filled with energy and rhythm.

• Artist: Arthur Conley
• Album: Sweet Soul Music

57. Let’s Stay Together

The tender lyrics in this romantic soul classic perfectly complement Al Green’s smooth vocals.

• Artist: Al Green
• Album: Let’s Stay Together

58. Me and Mrs. Jones

Billy Paul’s smooth, melancholic vocals tell the tale of a forbidden love, making this track a memorable soul ballad.

• Artist: Billy Paul
• Album: 360 Degrees of Billy Paul

59. Tell It Like It Is

Aaron Neville’s rich, expressive voice elevates this soul ballad, gracefully exploring love and vulnerability.

• Artist: Aaron Neville
• Album: Tell It Like It Is

60. Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now

McFadden & Whitehead’s infectious and uplifting anthem inspires perseverance and positivity, becoming a dancefloor favorite.

• Artist: McFadden & Whitehead
• Album: McFadden & Whitehead

61. Betcha by Golly, Wow

The Stylistics deliver a sweet and romantic soul ballad, with their harmonies creating a perfect blend of tenderness and melody.

• Artist: The Stylistics
• Album: Round 2

62. I’ll Take You There

This Staple Singer’ hit blends gospel, soul, and funk to create an uplifting anthem for peace and unity.

• Artist: The Staple Singers
• Album: Be Altitude: Respect Yourself

63. Lean on Me

Bill Withers’ signature song celebrates community and friendship, offering an enduring message of support and solidarity.

• Artist: Bill Withers
• Album: Still Bill

64. I Can’t Stand the Rain

Ann Peebles’ soulful delivery in this track captures the heartache and longing of lost love, set against a smooth groove.

• Artist: Ann Peebles
• Album: I Can’t Stand the Rain

65. Love’s Theme

Barry White and his orchestra deliver an instrumental soul classic filled with lush arrangements and romantic tones.

• Artist: The Love Unlimited Orchestra
• Album: Rhapsody in White

66. Midnight Train to Georgia

Gladys Knight & The Pips’ heartfelt performance makes this soulful ballad about love and sacrifice a timeless classic.

• Artist: Gladys Knight & The Pips
• Album: Imagination

67. I’m Your Puppet

This sweet and tender soul ballad by James & Bobby Purify captures the power of love in a playful yet heartfelt manner.

• Artist: James & Bobby Purify
• Album: James & Bobby Purify

68. Kiss and Say Goodbye

The Manhattans’ smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics in this soulful breakup ballad made it an instant classic.

• Artist: The Manhattans
• Album: The Manhattans

69. Until You Come Back to Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do)

Aretha Franklin’s commanding vocals in this track express deep yearning and love, making it a standout in her catalog.

• Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Album: Let Me in Your Life

70. You Make Me Feel Brand New

The Stylistics deliver a romantic soul classic with rich harmonies and a message of renewal in love.

• Artist: The Stylistics
• Album: Let’s Put It All Together

71. Mr. Big Stuff

Jean Knight’s sassy and assertive performance in this track made it an anthem of confidence and empowerment.

• Artist: Jean Knight
• Album: Mr. Big Stuff

Conclusion

As we wrap up our exploration of the best soul songs for singers, remember that this genre offers a treasure trove of emotional and powerful tracks to showcase your vocal talents.

From timeless classics to modern gems, these songs provide ample opportunities to connect with your audience and express your unique style.

Whether you’re performing at weddings, open mic nights, or professional gigs, incorporating these soul favorites into your repertoire will upgrade your performances.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different songs and make them your own. Keep practicing, expanding your range, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey of bringing these soulful melodies to life.