With a voice that possesses the power to move mountains and the ability to effortlessly glide through multiple genres, Patti LaBelle has solidified her position as one of the most influential and iconic singers of all time. From her early days as the lead vocalist of the groundbreaking group, Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, to her remarkable solo career, she has captivated audiences with her impeccable vocal range, electrifying stage presence, and unwavering passion for music. In this article, we embark on a melodic journey through the illustrious career of Patti LaBelle as we explore her top 10 best songs of all time. Each song on this esteemed list showcases LaBelle’s remarkable ability to transcend musical boundaries and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. From soulful ballads that tug at the heartstrings to high-energy anthems that compel you to get up and dance, Patti LaBelle’s discography is a testament to her extraordinary talent and the lasting impact she has made on the music industry. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to be enthralled as we celebrate the incomparable artistry of Patti LaBelle and the timeless songs that have shaped her legendary career.
1. You Are My Friend
This song is an unforgettable anthem of friendship, filled with soulful lyrics and stunning vocals that reach deep into the listener's heart. Its message of love and devotion transcends time and leaves a lasting impression on all who hear it. Patti Labelle's powerful delivery imbues each note with awe-inspiring passion, making 'You Are My Friend' a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
As one of her most iconic hits, this song showcases Labelle's superior vocal range and emotional depth. It showcases how deeply she understands the human experience, resulting in a profound connection between artist and audience. Timeless themes of hope, joy, and kinship are expertly woven together to create a masterpiece of soul music that will be cherished for generations to come.
Beyond her unforgettable vocals, 'You Are My Friend' offers a glimpse into Labelle's immense talent as a songwriter. With lyrics that are heartfelt yet universal, she invites listeners into her world with sincerity and openness. The result is an artistic triumph that leaves no doubt as to why Patti Labelle remains one of the greatest singers in history.
For those who have not yet discovered the magic of 'You Are My Friend,' we implore you to listen now before you miss out on one of the great musical experiences of all time. Let Patti Labelle's voice uplift you and remind you of the power of true friendship – it is an experience you will never forget. Even if love hasn't come for you yet, at least you can enjoy Patti Labelle's soulful anthem about finally finding it.
2. Love Has Finally Come
This track showcases Patti Labelle's love for soulful music. 'Love Has Finally Come' is a classic song that remains relevant even after many years since its release. The R&B and funk influences in this song make it stand out from the rest of Labelle's discography. With powerful, heartfelt lyrics, the song speaks to listeners on a deep emotional level.
Labelle's powerful pipes come through in this track, which serves as a piece of evidence of the singer's impeccable vocal prowess. Even with time, the song remains an admirable representation of her vocal dexterity and ability to connect with her listeners. The energy in this song also makes it stand out as one of Labelle's most rhythmic pieces.
It is worth noting that 'Love Has Finally Come' was a fan favorite during Labelle's live performances, where she would bring life to her already fantastic studio recording. Apart from being an enjoyable listening experience, the track teaches valuable life lessons about hope and perseverance.
For fans looking for more music with similar themes of love and determination, Labelle has numerous other beautiful songs on her albums. For instance, 'If Only You Knew' presents another wonderful opportunity to appreciate Patti's stunning delivery while exploring themes of unrequited love. Similarly, 'On My Own' highlights her incredible duet capabilities alongside Michael McDonald, resulting in yet another soulful hit record that holds up years later.
Move over Mr. Big Stuff, it's time to give 'Yo Mister' a spin and let Patti Labelle's soulful voice take you on a journey through love and heartache.
3. Yo Mister
This soulful track is one of Patti Labelle's hits from the 80s. 'Yo Mister' showcases Labelle's powerful and emotive voice as she sings about a woman's struggles with an abusive partner. The song, which was co-written by Prince, also contains elements of his signature funk sound. It became a top 20 hit on the US R&B charts and remains a fan favorite.
Continuing in the spirit of the 80s, 'Yo Mister' holds its own alongside several other classics from Patti Labelle's discography. With its memorable lyrics and catchy beat, it has become an iconic song that exemplifies her vocal prowess and artistic versatility.
Labelle has always been vocal about her support for women's rights, a message that resonates strongly with audiences on this track. In addition to its commercial success, 'Yo Mister' represents an important cultural moment in both Labelle's career and the larger feminist movement.
Legend has it that Prince actually wrote 'Yo Mister' with Patti LaBelle specifically in mind – a testament to her exceptional ability as a singer and performer. Though decades have passed since its debut, the song remains just as relevant today as it was when it was first released – solidifying Labelle's status as a queen of R&B.
When it comes to love, Patti knows how to pick 'em – and 'The Right Kinda Lover' is no exception.
4. The Right Kinda Lover
This track from Patti Labelle's discography, known as the perfect blend of classic R&B and pop, showcases the singer's powerful vocals and dynamic range.
It's a story of finding someone who fits just right in every way. 'The Right Kinda Lover' was a top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and remains a fan favorite today. The song was produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who are responsible for some of the most iconic R&B hits of the era.
Don't know who loves you baby? Just ask Patti Labelle and she'll give you the lowdown in her soulful hit.
5. Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)
This soulful ballad, Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is), showcases Patti LaBelle's masterful vocal range and emotive delivery. The lyrics, written by Bunny Sigler and Allan Felder, convey a message of love and affection that is sure to tug at the heartstrings of anyone who hears it. With its smooth R&B groove and groovy instrumental arrangements, this song is truly one of Patti's best.
Moreover, the song reflects on the pain of unrequited love as she sings about how she feels towards her lover. Her voice overflows with emotion as she implores him not to leave her alone again. The passion in her voice is paired with an understated backing band that taps out its beat with deliberate care.
To note, the track was released back in 1983 alongside an album entitled "I'm In Love Again" which is another standout collection from LaBelle’s early catalog.
For listeners looking to add more romance to their life, Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is) can provide excellent inspiration for sweet gestures and intimate moments. Whether used as a dedication or played as background music during a special dinner, this classic from Ms. Patti LaBelle will always ignite feelings of love and tenderness between couples.
Get ready to groove with Patti Labelle's 'Oh People' – unless you're a hermit, in which case, just keep scrolling.
6. Oh People
This soulful track by Patti Labelle, number six on the list of her best songs, "encourages people to recognize their worth and stand up for their rights." The lyrics are a call to action that inspire listeners to embrace their unique qualities and strengths. With its catchy melody and empowering message, "Oh People" has become a beloved anthem for self-love and self-acceptance over the years. In addition to its timeless appeal, the song has received critical acclaim from music critics and fans alike. One example is Robert Christgau of The Village Voice who called it "a grand funk extravaganza."
If only you knew how much better these songs would sound if you were eating Patti's sweet potato pie while listening.
7. If Only You Knew
This soulful hit, sung by Patti Labelle, is one of her most recognizable love songs. With its smooth beats and powerful vocals, it explores the raw emotions of longing and heartache in a heartfelt way. Labelle's iconic voice beautifully captures the song's essence, making it impossible not to feel touched by it. Its lyrics take listeners on a journey through the ups and downs of love that make it worth fighting for. This classic tune never fails to evoke nostalgia among R&B fans.
Stirring up a storm on the dance floor is easy with this Patti Labelle classic, but please, for the love of all things funky, don't actually stir anything up in the kitchen.
8. Stir It Up
'8. Stir It Up' is one of the most iconic Patti Labelle songs of all time. It's a soulful and upbeat track that showcases Labelle's unparalleled vocal range and energy. Here are five points that highlight what makes this song so special:
- The funky bassline and groovy guitar riffs make for an instantly memorable sound.
- The lyrics about finding love and passion are relatable and inspiring.
- Labelle's powerhouse vocals, especially during the chorus, create a sense of joyful abandon.
- The song's popularity helped cement Labelle's status as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
- 'Stir It Up' continues to be a beloved and oft-performed classic in Labelle's repertoire today.
It's worth noting that 'Stir It Up' was also remade by Bob Marley in 1972 with slightly altered lyrics and a reggae beat, further demonstrating its timeless appeal.
For those who haven't heard 'Stir It Up', we encourage you to give it a listen ASAP. For fans who want to experience it in a new way, we suggest checking out some live performances from throughout Labelle's career, as her exuberant stage presence only amplifies the song's infectious energy. Another option is to seek out covers or remixes of the track by other artists, which can provide fresh perspectives on this enduring classic.
Overall, whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering 'Stir It Up' for the first time, there is no denying its place in Patti Labelle's legendary discography as one of her most enduring hits. New Attitude, but still the same amazing Patti Labelle we know and love.
9. New Attitude
This Patti Labelle classic from the soundtrack of the movie 'Beverly Hills Cop' is a powerful and upbeat anthem about reclaiming your power and owning your new attitude. The song encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a fresh outlook on life. With its catchy hook, infectious beat, and strong vocals, 'New Attitude' has become one of Patti Labelle's most iconic songs that resonates with audiences across generations.
Even though she sang it with Michael McDonald, let's be real, Patti Labelle was really on her own musical level with this hit.
10. On My Own
This renowned Patti Labelle's classic is a soulful ballad about being strong and independent. 'On My Own' showcases Labelle's powerful vocals paired with Michael McDonald's soothing voice, making it an unforgettable duet.
- Starts with a slow intro leading up to the main chorus.
- The lyrics speak of self-empowerment and personal growth.
- The song continues with alternating verses sung by both Labelle and McDonald.
- The bridge crescendos to a harmonious blend of their voices, reaching an emotional climax before bringing the song back down to its original pace.
- It concludes with the chorus repeating several times, leaving the listeners humming its tunes long after its final note fades out.
Labelle's innate talent for delivering such power-packed ballads like 'On My Own' has made her iconic in the music industry. Her effortless transitions between falsetto and chest-voice add character to this masterpiece.
The song earned them nominations for every prestigious music award possible, including a Grammy nomination where they both performed live at the ceremony. It also remained on top of various charts globally for weeks.
Reportedly, "On My Own" was not initially intended as a duet but was meant to be solely Patti Labelle's track. However, when she heard Michael McDonald singing backup vocals in another studio room while recording her album, she found their voices weaved together like magic!
Samuel Moore 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.
