The 80s was filled with incredible songs from what music historians called the ‘2nd British Invasion,’ but America owned its own on the charts, primarily with the Soul of the U.S.A. and the great artists who generated that sound. What were the Top Soul Songs of the 80s? In no particular order, here’s our list…
Little Red Corvette – Prince & The Revolution
Theme from “Shaft” – Isaac Hayes
Superfly – Curtis Mayfield
Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag – James Brown & The Famous Flames
Thank You (Falletinme Be Mice Elf Agin) – Sly & The Family Stone
Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone – The Temptations
When Doves Cry – Prince & The Revolution
It’s Your Thing – Isley Brothers
Don’t Stop (‘Til You Get Enough) – Michael Jackson
Family Affair – Sly & The Family Stone
Tear the Roof Off the Sucker/Give Up the Funk – Parliament
Theme from “Shaft” – Isaac Hayes
Superfly – Curtis Mayfield
Superstition – Stevie Wonder
War – Edwin Starr
Super Freak Part I – Rick James
Observations: Love Isaac, Stevie, The Temps, James and Family Stone; all old school legends. Notice the rise of Prince and Michael? Funk is well represented in the 80s as well. Sadly, Michael, Rick, Isaac, Prince, all of the temptations but one, Curtis, and Edwin are no longer with us, but their music will live forever.
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