The Best Soul Music of 2020
Contents
Looking for some great soul music to add to your playlist? Look no further than our list of the best soul albums of 2020!
Introduction
In recent years, soul music has experienced a renaissance, with artists like SZA, Solange, and Sampha breathing new life into the genre. 2020 has been no different, with a number of incredible soul records being released this year.
Here are our picks for the best soul albums of 2020:
SZA -Ctrl
SZA’s debut album Ctrl is a masterclass in modern soul, blending vulnerability and strength to create something truly special. SZA’s voice is breathtaking throughout, and the production is sleek and atmospheric. It’s an essential listen for any fan of contemporary R&B.
Solange – A Seat at the Table
Solange’s A Seat at the Table is a gorgeous and deeply personal record that tackles difficult topics like race and identity with grace and elegance. The production is stunning, and Solange’s voice sounds better than ever. This is an essential album for fans of soul music.
Sampha – Process
Sampha’s Process is a dark and introspective album that deals with themes of loss and grief. Sampha’s voice is unbelievably powerful, and the production is delicate and beautiful. This is an essential album for fans of modern soul music.
What is soul music?
Soul music is a genre of American popular music that originated in the late 1950s and early 1960s. It combines elements of African-American gospel music, rhythm and blues, and often jazz. Soul music became popular for dancing and listening in the United States, where record labels such as Motown, Atlantic and Stax were influential during the Civil Rights Movement. Soul also became popular around the world, directly influencing rock music and the music of Africa.
According to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, soul is “music that arose out of the black experience in America through the transmutation of gospel and rhythm & blues into a form of funky secular testifying”. Catchy rhythms, stressed by handclaps and extemporaneous body moves, are an important feature of soul music. Other characteristics are a call and response between the lead vocalist and choir or saxophone section; electric guitar riffs usually played by a single guitarist strumming simple chord progressions;txtMemphis horn-section arrangements; “blue note” improvisations; polyrhythmic compositions involving complex time signature changes; key centers often founded on fifths rather than thirds or octaves as well as minor keys or modal frames(African tonal systems); strong gospel-influenced vocalists with emotional delivery; intimately conversational ornaments such as mumbling, sighing, whispering or screaming.
The best soul music of 2020
The last year has been tough for everyone, but music has the ability to lift our spirits and transport us to another place. If you’re looking for some soul-soothing tunes, look no further than this list of the best soul music of 2020. From established artists like Mahalia Jackson to newcomers like Jazmine Sullivan, there’s something for everyone.
The best soul albums of 2020
The year 2020 has been a tough year for many people around the world. COVID-19 has forced us to stay indoors, away from our friends and loved ones. However, throughout all the darkness, there has been some light. Music has been a source of comfort for many people, with artists releasing some incredible new albums.
One genre that has seen a resurgence in popularity this year is soul music. Classic soul artists like Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin have inspired a new generation of singers and songwriters. 2020 has seen some incredible new soul albums released, from both established artists and exciting new talents.
Here are our picks for the best soul albums of 2020:
1) D’Angelo – ‘Redemption’
D’Angelo’s first album in 14 years is a masterpiece of modern soul music. ‘Redemption’ is a stunning record that finds the perfect balance between classic and contemporary sounds. D’Angelo’s vocals are outstanding throughout, and the album features some incredible guest appearances from the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Questlove, and Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea.
2) Jamila Woods – ‘HEAVN’
Jamila Woods’ sophomore album is an ode to her hometown of Chicago. ‘HEAVN’ is a beautiful record that blends elements of soul, R&B, and hip-hop. Jamila’s lyrics are deeply personal and empowering, and her voice is simply stunning. The album also features guest appearances from Saba, Noname, and Chance the Rapper.
3)disable – ‘SOUR SOUL’
disable is a relatively new artist who is making waves with his debut album ‘SOUR SOUL’. The record is an intoxicating blend of R&B, hip-hop, and soul that finds disable at his most vulnerable. His lyrics deal with issues of race, mental health, and relationships in a way that is both honest and deeply moving. disable’s vocal performance on the album is nothing short of breathtaking.
4) Michael Kiwanuka – ‘LOVE & HATE’
Michael Kiwanuka returns with his third studio album ‘LOVE & HATE’. The record is a tour de force of modern soul music that sees Kiwanuka at his very best. His lyrics are smart and incisive, his vocal performance is impeccable throughout, and the arrangements are simply gorgeous. This is an essential listen for fans of contemporary soul music.
5) Anderson .Paak – ‘Malibu’
Anderson .Paak’s 2016 album ‘Malibu’ was one of the best records of that year, so it’s no surprise that his follow-up ‘Oxnard’ would be one of the best soul albums of 2020. Paak continues to push boundaries on this record, blending elements of jazz, funk, R&B, and hip-hop into something truly unique. His vocals are fantastic throughout as he tackles themes of family , love ,and loss with charisma and style .
The best soul songs of 2020
There’s no doubt that soul music is having a moment in 2020. From experimental R&B to old-school Motown, the genre has never sounded so fresh. Here are our picks for the best soul songs of the year so far.
“No One Else” by SZA
SZA’s voice is angelic on this stand-out track from her latest album, CTRL. The song is a declaration of self-love and self-acceptance, with SZA affirming that she’s “the only one” she needs.
“Charging Bull” by Sampha
Sampha’s skills as a singer, songwriter, and producer are on full display on this standout track from his debut album Process. “Charging Bull” is a slow-building ballad that culminates in a powerful chorus, with Sampha’s soaring vocals backed by gospel-style harmonies.
“At Your Best (You Are Love)” by Aaliyah
Aaliyah’s cover of The Isley Brothers’ classic ballad is a perfect example of her ability to put her own spin on traditional soul music. Her version of the song is more understated than the original, and her delicate vocals are mesmerizing.
“Don’t Touch My Hair” by Solange
Solange’s 2016 album A Seat at the Table was packed with great soul tracks, but “Don’t Touch My Hair” stands out for its combination of vulnerability and strength. The song is about celebrating blackness and resisting racism, and Solange’s powerful delivery makes it all the more impactful.
Conclusion
To conclude, 2020 has been a great year for soul music. With so many different artists releasing new music, it was difficult to narrow down the list to just ten albums. However, these ten albums represent the best of what soul music has to offer. From classic soul sounds to modern takes on the genre, there is something for everyone on this list. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the best soul music of 2020.
