Soul is music that speaks to the core. One of the things that makes it special is how its beauty, often, isn’t felt on the surface. One has to listen for subtleties to understand it fully. Combining elements of gospel, jazz, and R&B, the music is a celebration of African-American identity. Under its umbrella is a diverse range of subgenres, from the popular Detroit style to the more accessible Philadelphia soul.
In its early days, soul was a go-to for dancing and listening in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement. Famous labels included Motown, Atlantic, and Stax, and their traction spread to the rest of the world, even influencing rock music. In its later years, offshoots such as neo soul were developed.
For this season’s Spindle Jam, we present to you a genre often misunderstood, but essential. Here are a few early soul albums anyone serious about vinyl needs in their collection.
Stevie Wonder – Songs in the Key of Life
Wonder is a key name in soul music. The release wasn’t a surprise, really—his prior records had always been destined for this magnum opus. This double LP features him showcasing his different styles, from the eclectic “Village Ghetto Land” to the more pop “Isn’t She Lovely.”
Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On
A defiant, socially conscious record that introduced a new definition of soul to the public. After suffering from a bout of depression, Gaye felt the need to deliver something more through his music. This was the result.
Aretha Franklin – I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
This one contains the self-titled track that went on to become the first big hit of Franklin’s career. Atmospheric and honest, this gem of a record exhibits just how powerful the Queen of Soul’s voice can be.
Ike & Tina Turner – Workin’ Together
A 1971 essential from husband-wife duo Ike and Tina. It’s amazing how the two were able to successfully combine hard rock influences with R&B on here.
Al Green – Greatest Hits
Record collectors tend to be full album listeners, but this release is a common exception. Containing several hits spanning Green’s 70s career, this compilation is considered by many to be one of the best greatest hits albums ever made.
James Brown – Live at the Apollo
A live album from the Godfather of Soul. The label heads were initially against releasing the record, citing that a non-studio performance with no new material wouldn’t be profitable. Thankfully, Brown and his manager were able to convince them otherwise.
Sam Cooke – Night Beat
Sit back, relax, and let Cooke’s soothing voice lull you to a world free from worry. This is a masterful work filled with versatility, showcasing Mr. Soul at what could possibly be his best.
Bill Withers – Still Bill
A complex soul/funk release that deceivingly sounds simple and effortless. With this record, Withers seemed to finally hold his own. To fully understand the album, several spins are required.
D’Angelo and the Vanguard – Black Messiah
OK, we know we said early, but here’s something modern for you to understand better the progression of soul. This album is controlled, but controversial enough to start a riot. Released fourteen years after the singer and multi-instrumentalist’s last, a lot of fans didn’t see this coming.
Everything here is available in our stores and the website. For more of this, drop by one of the branches and check out our Vinyl Essentials wall. Also check out our soul playlist on Spotify here.
Words by Kurvine Chua Visit the stores to see our Vinyl Essentials - Soul Wall Satchmi, 4F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall Satchmi, 2F Phase 2, UP Town Center