Chaka Khan is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals and unique blend of R&B, funk, and soul music. Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1953, Khan began her career as the lead singer of the funk band Rufus in the 1970s before embarking on a successful solo career.
Khan’s music is characterized by her distinctive voice, which has been compared to a mix of Aretha Franklin and Joni Mitchell, and her ability to infuse elements of jazz, rock, and hip-hop into her songs. Some of her most popular hits include “I’m Every Woman,” “Ain’t Nobody,” and “Through the Fire.”
Khan has won 10 Grammy Awards throughout her career and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Rufus. She has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Quincy Jones, and her influence can be heard in the work of contemporary singers such as Beyoncé and Alicia Keys.
In addition to her music career, Khan has been an advocate for various causes, including AIDS awareness and education, and has supported organizations such as Little Kids Rock and The Trevor Project. She remains an influential figure in the music industry and continues to perform and record new music to this day.
1. Hollywood
“Hollywood” is a funky R&B and pop song released by Chaka Khan in 1984. The song, written by Khan and producer David “Hawk” Wolinski, features a catchy and upbeat melody that showcases Khan’s powerful vocals. The lyrics are about the glamour and excitement of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. The song became a top 10 hit on the Billboard R&B chart and helped solidify Khan’s status as a successful solo artist in the 1980s. The track also features a notable guitar solo from Steve Lukather of Toto and was included on Khan’s album “I Feel for You,” which went platinum and won two Grammy Awards.
2. I’ll Be Good To You
“I’ll Be Good to You” is a soulful R&B song performed by Chaka Khan, originally released in 1981 as part of her debut solo album. The song features a funky bassline, catchy guitar riffs, and Khan’s powerful vocals, as she promises to be good to her lover and to never let him down. The song was a collaboration with legendary musician Quincy Jones and featured additional vocals by his protégé, Ray Charles. The song’s upbeat and positive message, combined with its infectious groove, made it a hit with audiences and helped establish Chaka Khan as a major force in the R&B and pop music scenes.
3. Like Sugar
“Like Sugar” is a vibrant and infectious dance track by American singer-songwriter Chaka Khan, released in 2018. The song features a driving beat and Khan’s powerful vocals, delivering a message of joy and liberation through the power of dance. The song’s funky basslines and shimmering synths create a pulsating groove that’s impossible not to move to, making it a favorite among fans of Khan’s music and dancefloor enthusiasts alike. The song’s message of finding freedom and release through music is a testament to Khan’s enduring legacy as a soulful and dynamic performer, and a reminder of the transformative power of music to uplift and inspire.
4. Do You Love What You Feel
“Do You Love What You Feel” is a hit song by Chaka Khan released in 1979. It was written by Khan, Ray Parker Jr., and David “Hawk” Wolinski. The song became a chart-topper on the US Billboard R&B charts and a Top 30 hit on the US Pop charts. The upbeat disco-funk song features Khan’s signature powerful vocals and a catchy chorus. The lyrics describe the exhilaration and excitement of being in love and the desire to keep the feeling alive. The track was included on Khan’s third solo album, “Naughty,” which became a commercial success and further solidified her reputation as one of the most prominent and talented voices in funk, R&B, and soul music.
5. I Know You, I Live You
“I Know You, I Live You” is a funky and soulful dance track by Chaka Khan, released in 1981 as part of her album “What Cha’ Gonna Do for Me”. The song features a driving bassline, tight horns and percussion, and Khan’s powerful vocals, as she sings about a deep connection with her lover. The song’s uplifting and positive message, combined with its irresistible rhythm and catchy hooks, made it a favorite among disco and R&B fans. “I Know You, I Live You” showcases Chaka Khan’s formidable talent and continues to be a fan favorite and dancefloor filler decades after its release.
6. Tell Me Something Good
“Tell Me Something Good” is a classic funk and soul song by American singer-songwriter Chaka Khan, released in 1974. The song features a groovy bassline and Khan’s distinctive and powerful vocals, delivering a message of love and connection through its playful lyrics. The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable hooks make it a timeless classic, beloved by fans of funk and soul music. The song’s positive message of finding joy and connection in life is a testament to Khan’s enduring legacy as an artist who champions the power of music to bring people together and celebrate the beauty of life.
7. Ain’t Nobody
“Ain’t Nobody” is a funk and R&B classic by Chaka Khan, originally released in 1983 as a part of the soundtrack to the film “Breakin'”. The song features Khan’s powerful vocals and a catchy synthesizer hook, making it a staple of dance floors and radio stations around the world. The lyrics tell a story of love and desire, with Khan proclaiming that her lover is the only one who can satisfy her. The song has been covered and remixed by numerous artists over the years, cementing its place as a timeless classic in the music world. “Ain’t Nobody” is widely regarded as one of Chaka Khan’s signature songs, and a testament to her legendary status as a performer and artist.
8. What Cha’ Gonna Do For Me
“What Cha’ Gonna Do For Me” is a funky and upbeat song by American singer-songwriter Chaka Khan, released in 1981. The song features a catchy and energetic horn section, groovy basslines, and Khan’s soulful and powerful vocals, delivering a message of empowerment and independence. The song’s infectious rhythm and uplifting lyrics make it a favorite among fans of funk and R&B music, and a testament to Khan’s ability to blend social commentary with dancefloor-friendly grooves. The song’s message of self-reliance and resilience is a testament to Khan’s enduring legacy as an artist who empowers and inspires listeners to embrace their inner strength and pursue their dreams.
9. I Feel For You
“I Feel for You” is a funky and infectious song performed by Chaka Khan, released in 1984 as part of her album of the same name. The song features a blend of different genres, including funk, hip-hop, and R&B, and includes a sample from Prince’s song “I Wanna Be Your Lover.” The song’s catchy hook, infectious beat, and Khan’s powerful vocals, made it an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. “I Feel for You” is now considered a classic of the 80s and continues to be a staple on dancefloors and radio stations worldwide.
10. I’m Every Woman
“I’m Every Woman” is a song originally recorded by Chaka Khan in 1978 and later covered by Whitney Houston in 1992. The song celebrates the power and strength of women and encourages them to embrace their individuality and inner diva. The upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and empowering lyrics have made it a timeless anthem for women all over the world. The song’s iconic opening line, “I’m every woman, it’s all in me,” has become a widely recognized catchphrase and is often used in popular culture to reference the song’s message of female empowerment. The track’s success helped establish Chaka Khan as a leading voice in funk, R&B, and soul music, and remains one of her most well-known and beloved songs.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
