The best Soul albums
of the 1960s.
Where to start with 1960–1969 soul — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1960s — soul
Top picks from 1960–1969, ranked by where we would start.
James Brown
It's a Mother
A vibrant fusion of funk and soul that grooves with infectious rhythms and playful brass arrangements.
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James Brown
Cold Sweat
A pioneering blend of funk and soul, featuring tight grooves and hypnotic rhythms that redefine the genre's landscape.
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Stevie Wonder
Tribute to Uncle Ray
A heartfelt blend of jazz, blues, and soul that showcases Wonder's youthful exuberance and vocal prowess.
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Stevie Wonder
With a Song in My Heart
A vibrant blend of jazz standards and pop-infused melodies that showcases youthful exuberance and emotional depth.
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David Bowie
David Bowie
A whimsical blend of psychedelic pop and art rock, filled with playful lyrics and eclectic instrumentation.
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The Temptations
The Temptations in a Mellow Mood
A smooth blend of lush orchestration and heartfelt vocal harmonies that define the essence of classic soul.
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The Temptations
Meet the Temptations
Soulful harmonies and infectious grooves set the stage for The Temptations' vibrant introduction to the music world.
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The Jackson 5
Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5
A vibrant fusion of soul and pop, showcasing youthful energy and melodic charm through infectious melodies and tight harmonies.
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David Bowie
Do Anything You Say
A vibrant blend of early rock and pop influences infused with Bowie's distinctive theatrical flair.
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Aretha Franklin
Laughing on the Outside
A blend of lush orchestration and Franklin's soulful vocals creates an intimate atmosphere filled with heartache and longing.
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Aretha Franklin
Yeah!: Aretha Franklin in Person
Soulful and vibrant performances capture the essence of Aretha Franklin's dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess.
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Bee Gees
The Bee Gees Sing and Play 14 Barry Gibb Songs
Melodic pop harmonies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing the Bee Gees' early songwriting prowess and vocal chemistry.
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Bee Gees
Idea
Melodic harmonies intertwine with introspective lyrics, delivering a vibrant blend of pop and rock sensibilities.
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Nina Simone
Wild Is the Wind
A haunting blend of jazz, blues, and soul that showcases Simone's emotive vocal prowess and poignant storytelling.
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Nina Simone
Silk & Soul
A deeply emotional blend of jazz, soul, and blues, showcasing Simone's powerful voice and poignant lyrical storytelling.
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Quincy Jones
I Dig Dancers
A vibrant blend of jazz and rhythm, infused with playful melodies and intricate arrangements that invite listeners to move.
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Quincy Jones
Golden Boy
A vibrant fusion of jazz and soul, layered with orchestral arrangements and catchy melodies that evoke a cinematic feel.
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Dionne Warwick
Anyone Who Had a Heart
Melodic soul ballads intertwine heartfelt lyrics with Warwick's lush vocals, evoking deep emotional resonance throughout the album.
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Dionne Warwick
Here, Where There Is Love
A lush blend of soulful melodies and poignant lyrics that resonate with themes of love and longing.
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Tony Bennett
A Time for Love
A lush orchestral backdrop enhances Bennett's smooth vocals, creating an intimate atmosphere for timeless love ballads.
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Tony Bennett
I Left My Heart in San Francisco
A lush blend of jazz and soul, where heartfelt vocals intertwine with evocative orchestral arrangements to celebrate love and longing.
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Ray Charles
Soul Meeting
A vibrant fusion of blues and gospel, propelled by Ray Charles' dynamic vocals and heartfelt piano melodies.
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Ray Charles
Ray Charles and Betty Carter
A smooth blend of jazz and soul, featuring lush arrangements and the interplay of two iconic vocalists.
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Ike & Tina Turner
The Hunter
A potent blend of blues and rock, infused with Tina's powerful vocals and Ike's gritty guitar work.
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