What Is Soul
Ben E. King · 1967
55 min · 23 tracks · R&B · soul
A rich blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat grooves, showcasing King's soulful vocal mastery.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady rhythm for relaxed moments heartfelt ballads for emotional release upbeat grooves for joyful gatherings
- Context
- In 1967, Ben E. King was transitioning from his earlier success with 'Stand By Me,' which had solidified his status as a soul icon. 'What Is Soul' is his fifth studio album, released during a period when he was exploring deeper themes in music while remaining influential in the burgeoning soul genre. This album reflects King's artistic maturity and commitment to exploring varied emotional landscapes.
- If you like
- R&B, soul
What Is Soul is an album by Ben E. King, released in 1967. A rich blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat grooves, showcasing King's soulful vocal mastery. 'What Is Soul' highlights King's versatility and contributed to the evolution of soul music in the late 1960s. Although it did not achieve the commercial heights of his earlier works, it received positive critical reception for its earnest songwriting and vocal performances, cementing King's reputation as a significant figure in soul music history. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does What Is Soul sound like?
A rich blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat grooves, showcasing King's soulful vocal mastery. Rooted in R&B and soul.
What makes What Is Soul by Ben E. King notable?
'What Is Soul' highlights King's versatility and contributed to the evolution of soul music in the late 1960s. Although it did not achieve the commercial heights of his earlier works, it received positive critical reception for its earnest songwriting and vocal performances, cementing King's reputation as a significant figure in soul music history. In 1967, Ben E. King was transitioning from his earlier success with 'Stand By Me,' which had solidified his status as a soul icon. 'What Is Soul' is his fifth studio album, released during a period when he was exploring deeper themes in music while remaining influential in the burgeoning soul genre. This album reflects King's artistic maturity and commitment to exploring varied emotional landscapes.
Who is What Is Soul for?
What Is Soul works well if you're into steady rhythm for relaxed moments, heartfelt ballads for emotional release and upbeat grooves for joyful gatherings.
How many songs are on What Is Soul?
What Is Soul has 23 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Record 2:32
- 2 She's Gone Again 2:44
- 3 There's No Place To Hide 3:00
- 4 Cry No More Standout 2:52
- 5 Goodnight My Love 2:37
- 6 Katherine 2:17
- 7 I Can't Break The News To Myself 2:31
- 8 I Swear By Stars Above Standout 2:28
- 9 Get In A Hurry 2:40
- 10 They Don't Give Medals (To Yesterday's Heroes) 2:52
- 11 Teeny Weeny Little Bit 2:37
- 12 What Is Soul? Standout 2:51
- 13 Forgive This Fool
- 14 Don't Take Your Love From Me 2:51
- 15 It's Amazing 2:53
- 16 When You Love Someone
- 17 It Ain't Fair 2:39
- 18 'Til I Can't Take It Anymore 3:06
- 19 Hey Little One 2:46
- 20 What'cha Gonna Do About It 2:45
- 21 We Got A Thing Going On 2:54
- 22 Soul Meeting
- 23 That's How It Feels 3:07
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