10 Best Patti Labelle Songs of All Time

Patti LaBelle, a true icon of the music industry, has left an indelible mark with her unparalleled talent, dynamic vocals, and captivating stage presence. With a career spanning several decades, she has solidified her position as a legendary singer, actress, and entrepreneur.

Born Patricia Louise Holte-Edwards on May 24, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Patti LaBelle initially gained fame as the lead vocalist of the group Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, which later transformed into Labelle. Her powerful and soulful voice resonated through hits like “Lady Marmalade,” showcasing her ability to infuse emotion into every note.

LaBelle’s solo career soared to new heights with chart-toppers like “On My Own” and “If You Asked Me To.” Her vocal prowess and genre-spanning versatility earned her numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beyond music, Patti’s influence extended to acting and cooking, publishing several successful cookbooks.

Not only celebrated for her artistic achievements, Patti LaBelle is also admired for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy, particularly in the realms of diabetes awareness and cancer research. Her electrifying performances and unwavering dedication have cemented her status as a true legend in the entertainment world, an inspiration to aspiring artists, and a beloved figure among fans worldwide.

1. "Lady Marmalade"

"Lady Marmalade" by Patti Labelle is an iconic song. It has a catchy melody, powerful vocals, and infectious energy. This is why it is one of her most beloved and successful tracks.

Here's a table showing the achievements of "Lady Marmalade":

What makes it special is its collaboration with other renowned female artists. It brought together Patti Labelle, Christina Aguilera, Lil' Kim, Mya, and Pink. They blended their individual talents for a sensational performance.

Pro Tip: To appreciate "Lady Marmalade," listen to it on high volume. That way, you can experience its empowering lyrics and infectious rhythm.

Patti Labelle sings it like to those exes who said they didn't need her. Hear "If You Asked Me To" for that sweet taste of revenge.

2. "If You Asked Me To"

Patti Labelle's 'If You Asked Me To' mesmerizes with its heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals. Labelle displays her vocal range and emotive delivery, leaving listeners spellbound.

Labelle exudes undeniable talent as she navigates the stunning vocals. Her ability to transition between verses and choruses is awe-inspiring.

The melody of "If You Asked Me To" carries a soulful elegance that adds depth to the song's poignant lyrics. Combining Labelle's passionate performance and the moving melody creates an emotional experience.

Despite being released in 1989, this timeless sound and universal themes of love and longing give it a classic status that transcends generations. It has received critical acclaim from music critics worldwide.

Patti Labelle embraces vulnerability and delivers a soul-stirring performance, cementing her status as a musical powerhouse. Who needs a significant other when you have Labelle's 'On My Own' to remind you that being alone can be pretty amazing?

3. "On My Own"

"On My Own" is a mesmerizing tune by Patti Labelle. It displays her mighty vocals and heartfelt emotion. It was released in 1986 as a duet with Michael McDonald and is still one of Labelle's most emblematic hits.

Labelle's unique voice blends with McDonald's soothing sounds. Together, they make a harmonious union that captures the essence of heartache and strength. The lyrics explore the theme of love lost, expressing longing and freedom.

Remarkably, "On My Own" was number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks. This success proves Patti Labelle is a mighty vocalist in the music industry.

Fun Fact: "On My Own" was first planned to be solo by Patti Labelle. But then Michael McDonald joined in as a featured artist, adding a layer of soulful brilliance.

If Only You Knew: This song will make you wish you had Patti Labelle's splendid vocal range. But, you can still belt it out in the shower without breaking any glass!

4. "If Only You Knew"

"If Only You Knew" is a soulful ballad by Patti Labelle. It captures unrequited love in raw emotion. The song is iconic, showcasing Labelle's powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics.

Album: I'm in Love Again (1983)

Genre: R&B/Soul

Length: 4:42

It starts with a haunting piano melody, building as Labelle's voice rises through the verses and chorus. Her delivery is raw, evoking longing and heartache.

The song was written by Dexter Wansel, an acclaimed songwriter and producer of the Philadelphia soul sound. He crafted a composition that complements Labelle's vocal prowess.

This timeless ballad continues to captivate. Whether you need love, a good cry, or a serenade, Labelle's "Love, Need and Want You" has you covered.

5. "Love, Need and Want You"

Patti LaBelle's "Love, Need and Want You" is a classic hit that features her incredible vocals and passionate storytelling. This soulful ballad dives into the realness of love, uncovering the common desires of love, dependency, and desire.

Follow these 5 Steps to get to know "Love, Need and Want You":

1. Haunting Melody: The song opens with a soothing piano melody that sets an emotional mood. LaBelle's vocals take the spotlight, creating a personal link with the audience.
2. Real Emotion: "Love, Need and Want You" dives deep into the complexities of love. LaBelle's words express vulnerability and honesty, connecting with those who have experienced both the highs and lows of romance.
3. Soulful Lyrics: The words perfectly explain the longing for pure love. They represent the intensity of feelings when you not just want someone, but also need them to feel whole.
4. Strong Vulnerability: Patti LaBelle encourages listeners to embrace their own feelings. The song reminds us that showing our needs and wants is a sign of courage instead of a sign of weakness.
5. Timeless Appeal: Released in 1989, "Love, Need and Want You" still captures people's attention. The lyrics and emotion of the song can be appreciated by both old and new fans.

This heart-touching song emphasizes that expressing our love is important. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the power of Patti LaBelle's "Love, Need and Want You". Let the music and lyrics move you and allow your feelings to take off. Dive into this musical masterpiece and let it awaken your innermost desires. Get ready to switch up your mindset and adopt the 'New Attitude' as Patti Labelle takes you on a melodic ride that will leave you feeling empowered.

6. "New Attitude"

Patti LaBelle's "New Attitude" is an iconic hit. It was released in 1984 and was an anthem of self-empowerment. It climbed the charts & reached number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It stands out for its catchy melody & empowering message. The infectious rhythm & LaBelle's powerful vocals make it unforgettable. Its timeless appeal reminds us that attitude changes can have a huge impact.

Give it a listen today & experience the uplifting energy of this legendary track!

7. "You Are My Friend"

Patti Labelle's anthem "You Are My Friend" has an irreplaceable place in her fans' hearts. It's a powerful, emotive track featuring Labelle's strong vocals and meaningful lyrics.

This tune speaks of Labelle's immense appreciation for a friend who has always been there in good and bad times. The meaningful words remind us of the value of friendship and support.

Let's break down the chart to better understand the success of this track:

"You Are My Friend" got released in 1977 and instantly became popular, reaching #12 on the Billboard charts. This proves its long-lasting appeal and connection with listeners of diverse ages.

This iconic song reflects Labelle's musical talent and authenticity. It continues to be cherished by fans across the globe who love its poignant lyrics, soulful melody, and Labelle's breathtaking vocal performance. "You Are My Friend" is like being sung a beautiful lullaby by Patti Labelle and then being kicked in the soul.

8. "When You've Been Blessed"

"When You've Been Blessed" is a soulful ballad featuring Patti Labelle's powerful vocals and emotional depth. The song brings a message of gratitude and appreciation for life's blessings.

Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person reflecting on their journey and recognizing the good that has come their way. Patti Labelle's impassioned delivery evokes a sense of vulnerability, allowing listeners to connect with the authenticity of the words.

The melody intertwines R&B and gospel music, adding to the uplifting quality of the song. It captures the listener with heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring harmonies. This anthem serves as a reminder to cherish life's blessings and express thanks for every moment.

Experience the powerful transformation of "When You've Been Blessed". Let Patti Labelle's emotive vocals and poignancy inspire you to appreciate the beauty around you. Don't miss out on this soul-stirring classic that will make you reach for a spoon and your dancing shoes!

9. "Stir It Up"

"Stir It Up", number 9 in our list of Patti Labelle's best songs, is a timeless classic. Its soulful melody and powerful vocals keep captivating audiences. Let's explore its details.

Here's some key info about "Stir It Up":

It showcases Patti Labelle's impressive vocal range. She transitions from lower to higher notes easily. This adds emotion to the song.

It's universal too. Its lyrics and rhythm connect with people across ages and musical tastes.

To get the most out of it, listen to it on a quality audio system or headphones. This lets you appreciate the instrumentation and nuances of her voice.

Live performances of "Stir It Up" add a visual element that enhances the experience. Patti Labelle's stage presence and energy make it extra exciting.

Now, get ready to feel loved and envy all the delicious pies being baked when you listen to Patti Labelle's 'Somebody Loves You Baby'.

10. "Somebody Loves You Baby"

Table:

This ballad from the album "I'm in Love Again" has soulful vocals and emotional depth. Released in 1983 by Philadelphia International Records, it mixes R&B and Pop genres. Its heartfelt lyrics and melodic arrangement made "Somebody Loves You Baby" an instant hit worldwide.

Pro Tip: To fully appreciate Patti Labelle's music, use a pair of high-quality headphones for a great experience.

Edward Tomlin

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.