5 soul music artists you need to know about

In the mood for some soulful tunes? Check out our list of 5 soul music artists you need to know about. From newbies to classics, these artists will definitely get your groove on.

Introduction

In a genre steeped in history and tradition, it can be easy to forget that new artists are still emerging and keeping the sound alive. Here are 5 soul music artists you need to know about.

1. Mavis Staples

Mavis Staples is a legendary figure in the world of soul music. A singer, songwriter, and activist, she first rose to prominence as a member of the iconic gospel group The Staple Singers in the 1950s and 1960s. The group scored hits with songs like “Uncloudy Day” and “I’ll Take You There,” and their music was highly influential in the civil rights movement. Mavis Staples has continued to make great music throughout her solo career, and at age 80, she shows no signs of slowing down.

2. Booker T. & The MGs

Booker T. & The MGs were one of the most popular and influential soul groups of the 1960s. The band was led by keyboardist Booker T. Jones, and their hits include “Green Onions,” “Hang ‘Em High,” and “Time Is Tight.” They were also the house band for legendary soul label Stax Records, backing up artists like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Wilson Pickett on some of their most classic recordings.

3. Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings

Sharon Jones was a late bloomer when it came to her musical career – she didn’t release her first album until she was 40 years old. But she quickly made up for lost time, forming the retro-soul group Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings and releasing a string of great albums in the 2000s. With their vintage sound and Jones’ powerful vocals, they became one of the leading forces in the revival of classic soul music. Sadly, Jones passed away in 2016, but her infectious music lives on.

4. Charles Bradley

Charles Bradley was another artist who didn’t achieve success until later in life – he didn’t release his first album until he was 62 years old. But he quickly won over fans with his passionate performances and his unique style, which blended elements of James Brown’s showmanship with influences from outside of soul music (he was a big fan of punk rock). His story was also an inspiring one – after years of working odd jobs and struggling to make ends meet, he finally achieved his dream of becoming a professional musician at an age when most people are retired. He released three great albums before his untimely passing in 2017, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most charismatic performers soul music has ever seen.

Al Green

Al Green, often referred to as “The Reverend Al Green”, is an American singer, songwriter and record producer, best known for his recordings with The Mirettes, Johnny Taylor, The Soul Survivors and Willie Mitchell. Green has been nominated for seven Grammy Awards. He has also been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

Bill Withers

Bill Withers is an American soul singer-songwriter who wrote and sang some of the most revered songs in history, including “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lean on Me.” He began his music career in the early 1970s after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy, and he released his debut album, Just As I Am, in 1971. His warm, soulful voice and introspective songwriting led to a string of hits throughout the 1970s, including “Use Me” and “Lovely Day.” Withers won three Grammy Awards and was nominated for several more before choosing to retire from the music business in 1985. Although he largely stayed out of the spotlight after retiring, his influence can still be felt today through the work of artists like John Legend and Alicia Keys.

Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye was an American singer, songwriter and record producer. He helped to shape the sound of Motown in the 1960s, first as an in-house session player and later as a solo artist with a string of hits, including “Ain’t That Peculiar”, “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine”. He recorded duets with Mary Wells, such as “It Takes Two” and with Kim Weston, such as “It Takes Two”. After leaving Motown in 1982, Gaye moved to Europe.

Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin is widely known as the “Queen of Soul” for her powerful voice and signature style. A legendary figure in music, she has won 18 Grammy Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award. Franklin has also been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. Some of her famous songs include “Respect,” “Natural Woman,” and “I Say a Little Prayer.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different types of soul music artists that you should know about. This genre is full of rich history and talented musicians. From the classic sounds of Motown to the contemporary vibes of Neo-Soul, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check out some of these artists the next time you are looking for some good soul music.