Al Green is an American soul singer, songwriter, and record producer who rose to fame in the 1970s with his distinctive high-pitched voice and smooth and sensual style of soul music. Born on April 13, 1946, in Arkansas, Green started his music career as a gospel singer before transitioning to soul music in the late 1960s.
Green’s discography includes many hits, such as “Let’s Stay Together,” “Tired of Being Alone,” and “Love and Happiness,” among others. He was also known for his flamboyant stage presence and his unique fashion sense, which included colorful suits and fedoras.
Green’s music was influential in the development of soul and R&B music and has inspired many artists since. He won numerous awards throughout his career, including 11 Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.
Despite a hiatus from music in the 1980s and 1990s, Green continued to record and perform, with his music featuring in movies and television shows. He also became an ordained pastor and founded his own church in Memphis, Tennessee.
Al Green’s enduring popularity and influence are a testament to his talent as a singer and songwriter and his contribution to soul and R&B music. His music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans all over the world.
1. L-O-V-E (Love)
“L-O-V-E (Love)” is a classic soul track by Al Green, released in 1975. It’s an upbeat and joyful song, featuring Green’s signature high-pitched vocals accompanied by a funky rhythm section and brass arrangements. The song’s lyrics celebrate the power and joy of love, with Green singing of the happiness and fulfillment that it brings. “L-O-V-E (Love)” became a hit for Green, reaching number 13 on the US R&B chart and showcasing his ability to blend soulful vocals with funky and upbeat instrumentation. The song remains a beloved classic of soul and R&B music.
2. You Ought to Be With Me
“You Ought to Be With Me” is a soulful and romantic song by the legendary American singer, Al Green. Released in 1972, the song features Green’s signature smooth and silky voice, accompanied by a grooving rhythm section and soaring horns. The lyrics describe a man trying to convince his lover to stay with him, assuring her that he will be faithful and devoted. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, “You Ought to Be With Me” became one of Green’s biggest hits and a classic of the soul and R&B genres. It is a timeless reminder of the power of love and commitment.
3. Look What You Done for Me
“Look What You Done for Me” is a soulful track by Al Green, released in 1972. The song features Green’s smooth, emotive vocals over a funky rhythm section, with horns and strings adding to the lush sound. The lyrics describe the transformative power of love, with Green expressing gratitude to his lover for changing his life. “Look What You Done for Me” is a classic example of Green’s soulful sound, and his passionate delivery and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite. The song’s themes of love and gratitude continue to resonate with listeners today.
4. Love and Happiness
“Love and Happiness” is a classic soul track by Al Green, released in 1972. It’s a smooth and soulful song, featuring Green’s distinctive vocals accompanied by a funky rhythm section and horn arrangements. The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy and contentment that love and happiness bring, with Green’s emotive singing conveying a sense of passion and sincerity. “Love and Happiness” became a signature track of Green’s career, and has since been covered by many other artists. The song remains a timeless classic of soul and R&B music, showcasing Green’s ability to capture deep emotions and experiences through his music.
5. Take Me To the River
“Take Me to the River” is a soulful and funky song by the legendary American singer, Al Green. Released in 1974, the song features Green’s smooth and emotive voice over a grooving rhythm section and a gospel-inspired chorus. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to be cleansed and purified in a river, both metaphorically and literally. With its catchy chorus and infectious groove, “Take Me to the River” became one of Green’s most popular songs and a classic of the soul and R&B genres. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
6. How Can You Mend a Broken Heart
“How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” is a soulful ballad by Al Green, released in 1972. The song features Green’s powerful, emotive vocals over a gentle, acoustic guitar arrangement, with strings and horns adding to the poignant sound. The lyrics describe the pain and sorrow of a broken heart, with Green asking how one can repair the damage that has been done. “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” is a heart-wrenching masterpiece that showcases Green’s vocal range and ability to convey complex emotions through his music. The song’s themes of love, loss, and resilience continue to resonate with listeners today.
7. I Can’t Get Next to You
“I Can’t Get Next to You” is a classic soul track by Al Green, released in 1971. It’s an upbeat and funky song, featuring Green’s powerful vocals accompanied by a driving rhythm section and horn arrangements. The song’s lyrics express the frustration of being unable to connect with someone despite trying, with Green’s energetic singing conveying a sense of urgency and determination. “I Can’t Get Next to You” became a hit for Green, reaching number 11 on the US R&B chart and earning him critical acclaim for his soulful and dynamic performance. The song remains a beloved classic of soul and R&B music.
8. Back Up Train
“Back Up Train” is a funky and upbeat song by the legendary American singer, Al Green. Released in 1967, the song features Green’s smooth and soulful voice over a driving rhythm section and horns. The lyrics describe a man trying to get his life back on track and find his way in the world. With its catchy melody and funky groove, “Back Up Train” became Green’s first hit single and a classic of the soul and R&B genres. It is a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift, and a reminder of the talent and charisma of one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
9. Tired of Being Alone
“Tired of Being Alone” is a soulful track by Al Green, released in 1971. The song features Green’s smooth, emotive vocals over a simple yet catchy rhythm section, with horns and strings adding to the soulful sound. The lyrics describe the loneliness and longing of being single, with Green expressing his desire for companionship and love. “Tired of Being Alone” is a classic example of Green’s soulful sound, and his passionate delivery and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite. The song’s themes of love and companionship continue to resonate with listeners today.
10. Let’s Stay Together
“Let’s Stay Together” is a timeless and romantic song by the legendary American singer, Al Green. Released in 1971, the song features Green’s silky smooth voice over a slow and grooving rhythm section and strings. The lyrics describe a man’s commitment to his lover, promising to stay by her side through thick and thin. With its memorable chorus and beautiful melody, “Let’s Stay Together” became one of Green’s biggest hits and a classic of the soul and R&B genres. It remains a beloved and iconic love song, celebrated for its message of enduring love and devotion.
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.
