Jackie Wilson, known as the “Mr. Excitement” of the music industry, was one of the most influential soul and R&B singers of the 20th century. Born in 1934 in Detroit, Michigan, Wilson’s dynamic vocals, electrifying stage performances, and passionate delivery earned him a dedicated fanbase and cemented his legacy as one of the greats. With a career spanning over two decades, Wilson released numerous hits that defined the Motown sound and influenced generations of musicians. In this article, we will highlight the top 10 best Jackie Wilson songs of all time. These tracks showcase Wilson’s versatile vocal range, his ability to convey emotion, and his gift for creating catchy melodies that have stood the test of time. From romantic ballads to uptempo dance tracks, Wilson’s music continues to captivate and inspire listeners today. So, without further ado, let’s explore the top 10 best Jackie Wilson songs that have left an indelible mark on the soul and R&B genres.
1. Doggin’ Around
“Doggin’ Around” by Jackie Wilson is a classic R&B song released in 1960. The track was written by Berry Gordy and William Robinson Jr., who were both members of the legendary Motown songwriting team. The song’s upbeat tempo, driving horns, and Wilson’s powerful vocals make it a timeless piece of music that has endured for over 60 years.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is tired of his lover’s unfaithfulness and decides to leave her. Wilson’s delivery is filled with emotion and conviction, making it easy for listeners to feel the pain and frustration of the character in the song. The catchy chorus and infectious melody make “Doggin’ Around” a favorite for fans of soul and R&B.
2. I Don’t Need You Around
“I Don’t Need You Around” by Jackie Wilson is a 1968 soul ballad that showcases Wilson’s smooth and soulful vocals. The song was written by the legendary Motown songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland and features lush orchestration that complements Wilson’s powerful performance.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is ready to move on from a failed relationship and declares that he doesn’t need his former lover in his life anymore. The song’s message is one of empowerment and self-confidence, as Wilson asserts his independence and autonomy. The track’s mellow groove and soulful melody make it a perfect showcase for Wilson’s emotive singing style.
“I Don’t Need You Around” is a quintessential example of the Motown sound, with its lush instrumentation, soulful vocals, and catchy melody. The song’s themes of heartbreak and moving on have resonated with listeners for over 50 years, making it a timeless classic in the world of soul music.
3. The Who Who Song
“The Who Who Song” by Jackie Wilson is a lively and energetic soul track released in 1967. The song’s driving beat and catchy horn section make it an instant classic of the Motown sound. Wilson’s powerful vocals and energetic delivery make “The Who Who Song” an infectious and danceable track that has stood the test of time.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to win over a woman who is playing hard to get. Wilson’s delivery is full of charm and swagger, making it easy for listeners to imagine themselves in the same situation. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a favorite for fans of soul and R&B.
4. I’ll Be Satisfied
“I’ll Be Satisfied” is a classic soul ballad by Jackie Wilson released in 1960. The song’s lush orchestration and Wilson’s emotive vocals make it a standout track of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is pining for his lost love and declares that he will be satisfied if she only returns to him.
Wilson’s delivery is filled with emotion and heartbreak, making it easy for listeners to feel the pain of his character. The song’s slow tempo and soulful melody make it a perfect showcase for Wilson’s powerful and emotive voice.
5. That’s Why (I Love You So)
“That’s Why (I Love You So)” is a soulful and romantic track by Jackie Wilson released in 1959. The song’s lush instrumentation and Wilson’s smooth vocals make it a timeless classic of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is deeply in love with his partner and explains all the reasons why he loves her so much.
Wilson’s delivery is full of passion and sincerity, making it easy for listeners to connect with the sentiment of the song. The track’s soulful groove and catchy melody make it a favorite for fans of classic R&B and soul music. “That’s Why (I Love You So)” is a quintessential example of the Motown sound, with its lush orchestration and soulful vocals, making it a classic of the genre.
6. To Be Loved
“To Be Loved” is a classic soul track by Jackie Wilson released in 1958. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and Wilson’s powerful vocals make it an iconic track of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who longs for the love and affection of his partner and explains all the ways he would show his love in return.
Wilson’s delivery is filled with passion and sincerity, making it easy for listeners to connect with the sentiment of the song. The track’s upbeat tempo and soulful melody make it a perfect showcase for Wilson’s dynamic and emotive voice.
7. Lonely Teardrops
“Lonely Teardrops” is a soulful ballad by Jackie Wilson released in 1958. The song’s lush orchestration, Wilson’s powerful vocals, and catchy chorus make it a standout track of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is heartbroken and cries lonely tears after his lover leaves him.
Wilson’s delivery is full of emotion and heartbreak, making it easy for listeners to feel the pain of his character. The song’s slow tempo and soulful melody make it a classic example of the Motown sound, with its lush orchestration and emotive vocals.
8. Reet Petite
“Reet Petite” is a lively and infectious track by Jackie Wilson released in 1957. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and Wilson’s dynamic vocals make it a standout track of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is madly in love with his partner and can’t resist dancing and singing whenever she’s around.
Wilson’s delivery is full of energy and charisma, making it easy for listeners to feel the joy and excitement of his character. The song’s fast-paced tempo and catchy melody make it a favorite for fans of soul and R&B music. “Reet Petite” is a classic example of the early Motown sound, with its catchy chorus, driving beat, and infectious melody.
9. I Get the Sweetest Feeling
“I Get the Sweetest Feeling” is a soulful and romantic track by Jackie Wilson released in 1968. The song’s lush instrumentation, Wilson’s smooth vocals, and catchy chorus make it a standout track of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is deeply in love with his partner and feels overwhelming joy and happiness whenever he’s with her.
Wilson’s delivery is full of passion and sincerity, making it easy for listeners to connect with the sentiment of the song. The track’s soulful groove and catchy melody make it a favorite for fans of classic R&B and soul music.
10. (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher
“(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher” is a classic soul track by Jackie Wilson released in 1967. The song’s upbeat tempo, driving horns, and Wilson’s powerful vocals make it an iconic track of the era. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is uplifted and inspired by the love of his partner, which makes him feel like he’s floating higher and higher.
Wilson’s delivery is full of energy and enthusiasm, making it easy for listeners to feel the joy and excitement of the character in the song. The track’s infectious melody and catchy chorus make it a classic example of the Motown sound, with its driving beat and dynamic vocals. “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher” has stood the test of time as a beloved track of the soul and R&B genres, and it continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.