Few voices have the power to transcend generations, but Patti LaBelle’s is one of them. With a career spanning over six decades, LaBelle has solidified her place as a true icon in the world of music. Known for her electrifying stage presence, incredible vocal range, and soulful delivery, LaBelle has gifted the world with timeless classics that continue to captivate listeners today. From heartfelt ballads that tug at your emotions to upbeat anthems that make you want to dance, Patti LaBelle’s music has always been a celebration of life, love, and resilience.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through her most beloved tracks — the ones that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans worldwide. Whether you’re a long-time admirer or discovering her catalog for the first time, these top 10 most popular Patti LaBelle songs will remind you why she’s known as “The Godmother of Soul.” Get ready to relive the magic, the passion, and the unmatchable energy that only Patti LaBelle can bring. From chart-topping hits to deep-cut gems, these songs are a testament to her legacy and her undeniable influence on the music industry. Let’s dive in!
1. Lady Marmalade (1974)
Released in 1974 by the groundbreaking girl group Labelle, “Lady Marmalade” quickly became an anthem of female empowerment and independence. The song’s infectious groove, coupled with its unapologetically bold lyrics, transformed it into a timeless classic. Most notably, the song’s iconic chorus, “Voulez-vous coucher avec moi (ce soir)?,” became a defining moment in pop culture history. The track’s funky rhythms and catchy melody were a departure from traditional soul music at the time, bringing a more vibrant and sassy energy to the mainstream.
What truly set “Lady Marmalade” apart was Patti LaBelle’s fiery, commanding vocals. Her powerful performance turned the song into a celebration of confidence, resilience, and female agency. At a time when many women were still finding their voices in the music industry, LaBelle and the group made a bold statement with the song, embracing their sexuality and power without hesitation. The track’s success was reflected in its rise to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for several weeks, solidifying its place as a milestone in the era of 1970s pop and soul.
The revolutionary nature of “Lady Marmalade” wasn’t limited to its sound; it also broke boundaries in its portrayal of women in music. The song’s brash and fun attitude not only helped shape Labelle’s legacy but also inspired future generations of female artists to embrace their own power and break free from societal expectations. To this day, “Lady Marmalade” remains a signature piece of Patti LaBelle’s extensive career, often celebrated for its fierce energy and its status as one of the most memorable tracks in the history of R&B and soul music.
2. If Only You Knew (1983)
Released in 1983, “If Only You Knew” is a powerful ballad that showcases Patti LaBelle’s remarkable ability to express deep emotion through her voice. The song tells the heartbreaking story of unspoken love and longing, with LaBelle’s soaring vocal performance capturing the raw vulnerability at the heart of the lyrics. The slow-building arrangement of the track allows LaBelle’s voice to shine, as she navigates the tender emotions of the song’s subject, slowly building to an impressive climax of passion and sincerity.
“What If Only You Knew” struck a chord with listeners, becoming a major hit in the R&B genre. It climbed to the top of the R&B charts, where it spent four weeks at No. 1, and also reached No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100. LaBelle’s ability to create such an emotional connection with the audience, through both her vocal delivery and the delicate instrumentation of the song, made it one of the most unforgettable ballads of the early ’80s.
The lyrics, coupled with the stunning vocal performance, give the song a timeless quality. The lyrics, penned by LaBelle and her collaborators, explore the complexities of unreciprocated love and the bittersweet emotions that accompany it. LaBelle’s voice, which effortlessly transitions from gentle and fragile to powerful and bold, elevates the song to a level of emotional depth that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level. “If Only You Knew” remains a standout track in LaBelle’s impressive catalog, often hailed as one of her signature songs.
3. On My Own (1986)
Released in 1986, “On My Own” is a poignant duet between Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald, and it quickly became one of the most memorable songs of LaBelle’s career. The song tells the heart-wrenching story of a relationship that has fallen apart, capturing the raw pain of love lost. The chemistry between LaBelle and McDonald is undeniable, as both artists pour their hearts into the performance, creating a vocal exchange that is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful.
The song’s success was immediate, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks, and becoming LaBelle’s second No. 1 hit. The emotional depth conveyed through their voices, along with the tender yet powerful arrangement, made “On My Own” an instant classic. LaBelle’s impassioned delivery, combined with McDonald’s smooth, soulful tones, created a perfect balance of vulnerability and strength, which is at the core of the song’s universal appeal.
“On My Own” stands as a testament to LaBelle’s vocal range and emotional power. Her ability to express the devastation of heartbreak, combined with the soulful quality of McDonald’s voice, made the song an anthem for anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken relationship. The track has since become a signature piece in both artists’ catalogs and remains a staple in LaBelle’s live performances, where its emotional intensity continues to resonate with audiences. The song’s legacy as a timeless ballad about love, loss, and healing solidifies its place in the annals of classic R&B duets.
4. New Attitude (1984)
In 1984, Patti LaBelle released “New Attitude,” a vibrant and empowering anthem that marked a significant shift in her musical direction. With its upbeat tempo and sassy lyrics, the song became a bold declaration of self-confidence, personal reinvention, and freedom. LaBelle’s energetic vocals are perfectly matched to the track’s lively arrangement, which blends elements of pop, R&B, and dance music. The song exudes an infectious energy that encourages listeners to embrace change and take control of their lives.
One of the defining moments for “New Attitude” came when it was featured in the hit film Beverly Hills Cop. The association with the blockbuster movie helped propel the song to mainstream success, reaching No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and further establishing LaBelle as a versatile artist who could seamlessly transition between genres. The track’s powerful message of reinvention and self-empowerment resonated with audiences, making it a timeless anthem of personal transformation.
The upbeat nature of “New Attitude” stands in contrast to some of LaBelle’s more soulful ballads, showcasing her ability to navigate various musical styles while maintaining her signature flair. The song’s success marked a new era for LaBelle, as it introduced her to a younger, more diverse audience. “New Attitude” remains one of her most well-known hits, frequently performed at her live shows where its infectious energy continues to captivate fans. With its empowering message and catchy melody, “New Attitude” stands as a testament to Patti LaBelle’s adaptability and enduring relevance in the music world.
5. You Are My Friend (1977)
Released in 1977, “You Are My Friend” is one of Patti LaBelle’s most heartfelt and enduring songs. The track, a soulful ballad about the power of friendship, showcases LaBelle’s ability to convey deep emotion with her powerful voice. The lyrics speak to the importance of loyalty and support, with LaBelle delivering each line with sincere affection. It’s a song about the unwavering bond between friends, a message that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Though it wasn’t a major chart success at the time of its release, “You Are My Friend” has since become one of LaBelle’s most beloved songs. It has become a staple of her live performances, where its emotional depth and heartfelt lyrics continue to connect with audiences. LaBelle’s voice, which effortlessly moves between tenderness and strength, captures the essence of the song’s message, making it a timeless anthem of friendship and support.
The song’s reflective tone and warm, soulful melody create an atmosphere of intimacy, as if LaBelle is speaking directly to the listener. The deep emotional connection that LaBelle shares with her audience is evident in every note, as she sings about the joy and comfort that true friendship brings. “You Are My Friend” stands as a testament to LaBelle’s ability to connect with her listeners on a deeply emotional level, offering a sense of solace and reassurance to anyone who has ever relied on the support of a good friend.
6. Stir It Up (1985)
In 1985, Patti LaBelle released “Stir It Up,” a lively and energetic track that perfectly exemplified her versatility as an artist. Featured on the soundtrack of Beverly Hills Cop, the song immediately captivated listeners with its infectious rhythm and LaBelle’s trademark powerhouse vocals. Unlike some of her more emotional ballads, “Stir It Up” exudes a playful, flirtatious energy, with lyrics that invite listeners to let loose and embrace the moment. The song’s vibrant rhythm and catchy melody are guaranteed to get anyone on their feet, making it a perfect fit for both the movie’s energetic vibe and LaBelle’s bold stage presence.
While not as commercially successful as some of her other hits, “Stir It Up” remains a fan favorite for its undeniable groove and the fun, carefree attitude it brings. The song’s infectious chorus and irresistible beat helped solidify LaBelle’s place in the pop music landscape of the mid-‘80s. It also highlighted her ability to tackle a wide range of musical styles, from soul and R&B to pop and dance music, effortlessly switching between them without losing the distinctive power of her voice.
“Stir It Up” was a testament to Patti LaBelle’s incredible range, proving that she could bring her fierce vocal energy to both soulful ballads and uptempo tracks. The song, with its dynamic rhythm and LaBelle’s flawless delivery, continues to be a fan favorite, and is a prime example of how LaBelle could bring life and energy to any genre she tackled. Whether played on the radio or performed live, “Stir It Up” is a testament to her unique ability to make any song her own.
7. Love, Need and Want You (1983)
Patti LaBelle’s “Love, Need and Want You,” released in 1983, is one of her most sultry and seductive tracks. Featured on her album I’m In Love Again, the song is a soulful love ballad that demonstrates LaBelle’s ability to weave deep emotion into every note she sings. The song’s slow, smooth melody perfectly complements the heartfelt lyrics, which express an intense desire and yearning for a loved one. LaBelle’s voice, full of passion and vulnerability, infuses the track with an undeniable depth that captures the essence of longing and love.
Though it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of LaBelle’s bigger hits, “Love, Need and Want You” became a fan favorite due to its timeless appeal and the incredible power of LaBelle’s vocal performance. The seductive tone of the track, combined with its smooth, silky instrumentation, made it a standout on the album and a defining moment in LaBelle’s career.
The song was later revived in popular culture when rapper Nelly sampled it for his hit “Dilemma,” bringing it back into the spotlight. This exposure introduced LaBelle’s powerful ballad to a new generation of fans, further cementing its place in the lexicon of classic R&B songs. With its understated sensuality and LaBelle’s unmatched vocal prowess, “Love, Need and Want You” remains one of her most cherished love songs, continuing to captivate listeners with its timeless emotional pull.
8. Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is) (1991)
Released in 1991, “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” became an instant hit, reaching No. 2 on the R&B charts. The song is a smooth, mid-tempo ballad where Patti LaBelle delivers one of her most soulful and intimate performances. The lyrics, which express unconditional love and devotion, resonate deeply with listeners, and LaBelle’s commanding voice carries the heartfelt message with ease and sincerity. The track is a perfect example of LaBelle’s ability to take a simple love song and elevate it with her raw emotion and vocal prowess.
The song’s message of love and reassurance struck a chord with audiences, particularly during a time when R&B music was beginning to embrace a more laid-back, romantic style. The gentle groove of the track, paired with LaBelle’s heartfelt delivery, makes “Somebody Loves You Baby” an enduring favorite. Its emotional depth and sincerity continue to make it a go-to song for romantic occasions and special moments, where the message of unconditional love is always welcomed.
“Somebody Loves You Baby” is another shining example of LaBelle’s incredible ability to connect with her audience through her music. Whether singing about love, loss, or hope, her voice has the unique power to make every listener feel as though she is speaking directly to them. This track, with its tender lyrics and LaBelle’s passionate delivery, stands as a perfect expression of her artistry and remains one of her most beloved songs from the 1990s.
9. When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven) (1991)
Released in 1991, “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” is a gospel-tinged anthem that celebrates spiritual fulfillment and the joy of feeling blessed. The song’s soaring vocals and uplifting lyrics are a testament to Patti LaBelle’s ability to deliver a powerful message of faith and gratitude with emotional depth. The gospel influences are evident in the rich harmonies and the emotional delivery, which showcases LaBelle’s incredible vocal range and her deep connection to the song’s theme of divine love and gratitude.
The track quickly became a fan favorite in LaBelle’s live performances, where it is often a highlight, lifting the spirits of the audience with its message of joy and thankfulness. Despite not achieving significant chart success in the mainstream pop charts, “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” has become a beloved spiritual anthem, resonating with listeners who find strength and hope in its message of divine grace and blessing.
LaBelle’s ability to merge gospel influences with mainstream R&B and pop music has always been one of her defining qualities, and “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” is a perfect example of this unique blend. The song’s combination of soulful instrumentation, uplifting lyrics, and LaBelle’s powerful voice creates a deeply moving listening experience, one that continues to inspire and uplift listeners every time it is heard.
10. The Right Kinda Lover (1994)
Released in 1994, “The Right Kinda Lover” marked Patti LaBelle’s return to the top of the R&B charts. The song is an upbeat, danceable track with a funky groove and sultry lyrics that perfectly suit LaBelle’s powerful vocal style. The track became a fan favorite due to its catchy chorus and its irresistible beat, which had listeners heading straight to the dance floor. LaBelle’s voice, both commanding and playful, adds an extra layer of energy to the song, making it an instant hit among fans of ’90s R&B.
“The Right Kinda Lover” became one of LaBelle’s most commercially successful songs of the decade, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart. Its upbeat tempo and infectious energy made it a staple in both clubs and radio playlists, while LaBelle’s vocal performance ensured that it remained one of her most memorable songs. The track is a perfect example of how LaBelle could blend soulful balladry with a more contemporary, pop-infused sound while still maintaining her signature style and emotional depth.
With its infectious rhythm, playful lyrics, and LaBelle’s commanding presence, “The Right Kinda Lover” demonstrates her ability to adapt to the ever-evolving music scene while staying true to the sound that made her an icon. The song continues to be a favorite among fans, a reflection of LaBelle’s enduring talent and her ability to remain relevant in the changing landscape of ’90s R&B.
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.
