Soul Classics: Variety of Meanings

 By Gail Nobles 12/13/2025

For me, Soul Classics aren’t just  timeless hits like Marvin Gaye “Let’s Get It On” and Aretha Franklin  “Respect.” Soul Classics have a variety of meaning. Soul classics could refer to tracks characterized by emotive vocal performances, heartfelt lyrics, and a blend of rhythm and blues (R&B) with gospel influences. For some, soul classics are defined by songs that have historical and cultural importance, reflecting societal changes and personal narratives.

Today I was thinking of  ひろし 里 Hiroshi Sato  and his track  Goodbye. They call his style “City Pop”. It came to include a range of styles—including funk, disco, R&B, AOR, soft rock, and boogie. It is a loosely defined form of Japanese pop music that emerged in the mid-1970s and peaked in popularity during the 1980s. I feel that his music connects to soul music.

Hear the podcast below….