Top ten who play soul

The Isley Brothers, formed in the 1950s, are an iconic American musical family group known for their enduring influence on R&B, soul, and funk. With a career spanning over six decades, the Isleys have continually reinvented their sound, blending genres and pioneering new musical styles.

Songs:

1. Summer Breeze
2. Harvest for the World

Lionel Richie, a renowned singer, songwriter, and producer, has made a lasting impact in the genres of R&B, pop, and soul. He's best known for his smooth, soulful voice and timeless hits like "Hello” "All Night Long” and "Endless Love”. Starting with The Commodores, Richie soared to solo fame in the 1980s and early 1990s, earning numerous Grammy Awards and even an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Today, he continues to perform and tour, while also serving as a judge on "American Idol”.

Ray Charles, a pioneering singer, songwriter, and pianist, blended soul, jazz, blues, and country to create a unique sound that revolutionized music. Known for classics like "Georgia on My Mind" and "Hit the Road Jack” Charles's career spanned from the 1950s to his death in 2004. He is so many musicians ‘main man’ when it comes to R&B. His innovative style and emotive performances earned him numerous awards and accolades, cementing his status as an American music icon.

Sam Smith is an English singer-songwriter known for their soulful voice and emotionally charged music. Born on May 19, 1992, in London, Smith gained international fame with their debut album "In the Lonely Hour." Over the years, they have received critical acclaim and numerous awards for their contributions to contemporary pop and soul music.

Quincy Jones is a legendary music producer, arranger, composer, and conductor. His extraordinary career spans over six decades, during which he has worked across numerous musical genres and collaborated with some of the most iconic artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Songs:

1. In the Heat of the Night
2. Thriller
3. Beat It

Carole King is a celebrated singer, songwriter, and pianist whose career spans over six decades

Songs:

1. You've Got a Friend
2. Tapestry
3. The Loco-Motion

Aretha Franklin, born in 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee, was a musical prodigy AKA the "Queen of Soul”. Her career began with gospel music, but she rose to international fame with her hits during the 1960s and 1970s, including "Respect” "Natural Woman” and "Think”. With a career spanning over six decades, she won 18 Grammy Awards and was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Known for her powerful voice and emotional depth, Aretha's music transcended genres and influenced generations. Despite personal and financial struggles, she remained a beloved figure in music until her death in 2018. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower through her timeless music and powerful message of respect and dignity.

Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was an iconic American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. Known for his eclectic work, flamboyant stage presence, and wide vocal range, Prince was a musical innovator whose influence spanned multiple genres, including funk, rock, R&B, and pop.

Songs:

1. Rasberry Beret
2. Little Red Corvette
3. Purple Rain

Gear:

• Cloud Guitar

Marvin Gaye is one of the most influential soul and R&B musicians of all time. His smooth voice, poignant songwriting, and groundbreaking albums have left an indelible mark on music history. We all have a fave Marvin song!

Songs:

1. What's Goin' on
2. Ain't No Mountain High Enough
3. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)

Michael Jackson, AKA "The King of Pop" was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, began his career at a young age as part of The Jackson 5, a Motown group formed with his brothers. The group quickly gained fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with hits like "I Want You Back," "ABC," and "I'll Be There," showcasing Michael's exceptional talent even as a child.

Songs:

1. Beat it
2. Thriller
3. Off the Wall