The Best Soul Music Albums of 2014

Here are the best soul music albums of 2014. If you’re a fan of soul music, you’ll definitely want to check these out!

Al Green- “Lay It Down”

Al Green’s first album in six years, Lay It Down is a return to form that finds the legendary singer at the top of his game. Producer Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson keeps the sound fresh while staying true to Green’s ’70s roots, and the result is some of the best soul music of the past decade. Standout tracks include “Take Me Back in Time” and “Someday We’ll Be Together,” but really, there’s not a bad song on this album.

D’Angelo and The Vanguard- “Black Messiah”

D’Angelo’s first album in 14 years features the singles “Really Love” and “Sugah Daddy.” It is a return to the classic sound of ’60s and ’70s soul, with hints of gospel, funk, and rock.

Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings- “Give the People What They Want”

Though it was released in January 2014, Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings’ Give the People What They Want is one of the best soul music albums of 2014. The album’s title track is an instant classic, and the rest of the album lives up to its promise. With its mix of classic soul, R&B, and funk, Give the People What They Want is a must-have for any fan of soul music.

Charles Bradley- “Victim of Love”

Charles Bradley’s “Victim of Love” is one of the best soul music albums of 2014. Bradley’s vocal performance is full of passion and emotion, and the album’s production is top-notch, resulting in a truly moving listening experience.

Lee Fields and The Expressions- “Special Night”

Labor Of Love by Lee Fields and The Expressions was one of the best soul albums of 2014. The album is a great example of modern soul music, with a vintage sound that will make you feel like you’re transported back in time. The album features catchy tracks like “Special Night” and “Can’t Stand the Rain”, which are sure to get your feet moving. If you’re a fan of soul music, this is an album you won’t want to miss.

Bilal- “A Love Surreal”

“A Love Surreal” is the fourth studio album by American recording artist Bilal, released on February 14, 2014 on BBE Records. The album was preceded by the singles “West Side Girl” and “Pleasure Toy”.

Bilal began working on “A Love Surreal” in early 2012, after the release of his previous album “Airtight’s Revenge” (2010). The album was recorded in various locations including Los Angeles and New York City, and features guest appearances from Kendrick Lamar, AB Soul, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, and Thundercat.

The album was met with positive reviews from music critics, who praised its experimental sound and Bilal’s vocal performance.

Trombone Shorty- “Say That To Say This”

Troy Andrews, better known as Trombone Shorty, is a musician from New Orleans, Louisiana. He is best known for his work in the genre of funk and soul music. His album “Say That To Say This” was released in 2013 to critical acclaim. The album peaked at number one on the Billboard charts and received positive reviews from many music critics.

Gregory Porter- “Liquid Spirit”

This past year has witnessed the release of some great soul albums, across a broad range of styles. Gregory Porter’s “Liquid Spirit” is one such album that stands out, and is our pick for the best soul album of 2014.

Porter’s album is a smooth and sophisticated blend of jazz, soul, and blues, with a healthy dose of gospel thrown in for good measure. The result is an album that is both deeply moving and highly listenable. From the opening track, “No Love Dying”, to the rollicking “Hey Laura”, to the tender ballad “Musical Genocide”, Porter spotlights his considerable vocal and songwriting talents.

While “Liquid Spirit” may not be the most groundbreaking soul album of 2014, it is easily one of the most enjoyable. If you’re looking for a soul album that you can play from start to finish without skipping a track, this is it.

John Legend and The Roots- “Wake Up!”

This album proves that soul music is still very much alive. John Legend and The Roots have created an album that is full of energy, power, and feeling. The tracks are all incredibly catchy, and it is clear that a lot of thought and care went into creating this work of art. This is an album that will make you dance, cry, and think. It is a true work of genius, and it is certainly one of the best soul albums of 2014.

Ryan Shaw- “Real Love”

Taking the top spot on our list of the best soul music albums of 2014 is Ryan Shaw’s “Real Love.” Produced by Shanachie Records, “Real Love” is a collection of 10 original tracks that showcase Shaw’s incredible vocal range and talent for writing catchy, soulful tunes. From the heartwarming title track to the upbeat “Good Morning Heartache,” this album is sure to please any fan of classic soul music.