What Is Soul
Ben E. King · 1967
55 min · 23 tracks · blues
A heartfelt blend of soul and rhythm and blues, characterized by rich vocals and lush instrumental arrangements.
Top tracks — play these first
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Cry No More — This track encapsulates the essence of heartbreak and resilience, showcasing King's ability to convey deep emotion through his powerful vocal delivery.
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What Is Soul? — The title track serves as a manifesto for the genre, blending philosophical musings with a catchy melody that invites listeners to reflect on the meaning of soul music.
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I Can't Break The News To Myself — This song highlights King's lyrical prowess, depicting the struggle of accepting painful truths while maintaining an engaging rhythm that keeps it memorable.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady rhythm for relaxed moments
- heartfelt ballads for emotional release
- upbeat grooves for joyful gatherings
- engaging storytelling through song
- consistent flow for easy listening
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced instant gratification
- seek experimental or avant-garde sounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'What Is Soul' was released in 1967, Ben E. King had already established himself as a prominent figure in R&B, following his success with hits like 'Stand By Me.' This album marked a continued evolution in his sound, showcasing more complex themes and deeper emotional narratives as he transitioned from the early pop influences of his career to a more mature soul style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Otis Redding· Sam Cooke· Solomon Burke
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Cry No More
The chorus features a poignant shift where the singer expresses a resolve to move forward despite heartache.
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 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 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? 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
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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