Patti LaBelle is a remarkable figure in the realm of music, heralded for her powerful, soul-stirring vocals and a dynamic stage presence that has left audiences spellbound for over five decades. Her journey began in the 1960s with the group Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, later rebranded as Labelle, which catapulted her into stardom with the iconic disco hit “Lady Marmalade.” The song’s provocative chorus and funky rhythm made it a timeless classic, showcasing LaBelle’s ability to command attention with her bold vocal prowess.
Launching her solo career in the late 1970s, LaBelle continued to blaze a trail with hits like “New Attitude” and “On My Own,” a duet with Michael McDonald. Her music often resonates with themes of love, empowerment, and self-assertion, all delivered with a mix of grace and gusto that only LaBelle can embody. Songs like “Love, Need and Want You” exhibit her ability to delve into the intricacies of love with a heartfelt sincerity, while “New Attitude” serves as an upbeat anthem of self-empowerment and resilience.
LaBelle’s influence extends beyond music; she’s a two-time bestselling author, an actress, and a humanitarian. Her contributions to music and culture have been recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Moreover, Patti LaBelle has been an inspirational figure for many artists across generations. Her enduring legacy is a testament to her unparalleled vocal talent, emotive performances, and a distinctive style that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Through her expansive and evocative discography, LaBelle has shared a piece of her soul, narrating stories of love, loss, and empowerment that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
1. “You Are My Friend”
“You Are My Friend” holds a special place in Patti LaBelle’s discography as it was the first single she released as a solo artist in 1978. This song was co-written by LaBelle with her then-husband Armstead Edwards and James “Budd” Ellison, dedicated to their son Zuri. It’s a heartfelt ballad that beautifully explores the theme of friendship. LaBelle’s powerful and emotive vocals express a deep appreciation and love towards a friend who has been there through thick and thin. The song’s lyrical content is poignant and touching, capturing the essence of a true friendship that is supportive and understanding. The music complements the emotional narrative with a gentle melody that carries a sense of warmth and affection. “You Are My Friend” remains one of LaBelle’s signature songs and a testament to her ability to convey deep emotions through her music.
2. “If Only You Knew”
“If Only You Knew” is a classic ballad from Patti LaBelle’s 1983 album “I’m in Love Again.” The song delves into the heartfelt longing and unspoken feelings one harbors for another. LaBelle’s soulful and impassioned delivery makes the emotions palpable, resonating with anyone who has experienced a similar sentiment of unvoiced love. The lyrics are straightforward yet profound, expressing a deep desire to reveal one’s feelings to the person they love. The gentle piano accompaniment and the soulful arrangement enhance the emotive quality of the song, making it a stirring and memorable experience for listeners. “If Only You Knew” topped the R&B chart and marked a significant entry in LaBelle’s solo career, showcasing her ability to evoke deep feelings through her incredible vocal prowess and emotive storytelling. Over the years, this song has remained a cherished ballad, reflecting LaBelle’s skill in articulating the complexities of love and longing through music.
3. “Love, Need and Want You”
“Love, Need and Want You” is a soulful ballad from Patti LaBelle’s 1983 album “I’m in Love Again.” This song stands as a heartfelt declaration of love, showcasing LaBelle’s exquisite vocal delivery. The lyrics encapsulate a deep emotional longing, expressing a profound desire and need for a loved one. The chorus repeats the title phrases with a tender sincerity that resonates with anyone who has ever been in love. The musical arrangement is soft yet impactful, allowing LaBelle’s powerful vocals to shine through, evoking a sense of vulnerability and earnestness. This song has been widely appreciated for its emotive quality and has been sampled by various artists over the years, displaying its timeless relevance in the realm of love ballads. LaBelle’s ability to convey deep emotional sentiments with a vocal richness makes “Love, Need and Want You” a memorable and cherished song in her extensive discography.
4. “New Attitude”
“New Attitude” is an empowering anthem recorded by Patti LaBelle for the 1984 action comedy “Beverly Hills Cop” soundtrack. This song exudes a lively, upbeat energy that encourages listeners to embrace a positive outlook and a fresh perspective. The lyrics reflect a narrative of personal transformation, urging individuals to shed old inhibitions and adopt a “new attitude” towards life. Musically, the track is driven by a catchy rhythm, vibrant horn section, and LaBelle’s dynamic vocal delivery, making it a compelling listen. It became a dance club favorite in 1984 and achieved commercial success by reaching No. 1 on the Hot Dance Music chart and No. 3 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The song’s positive message and catchy tune have contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a signature tune in LaBelle’s discography. “New Attitude” showcases LaBelle’s ability to deliver uplifting and motivational messages through her energetic and engaging musical performances.
5. “Stir It Up”
“Stir It Up” is a lively track from Patti LaBelle, featured on the soundtrack of the 1984 action-comedy film “Beverly Hills Cop.” This upbeat song is filled with energetic rhythms and compelling vocals, showcasing LaBelle’s ability to deliver vibrant and engaging performances. The lyrics encourage taking action and shaking things up, reflecting a proactive and spirited outlook. Musically, “Stir It Up” is a blend of pop and R&B with a catchy melody that makes it a delightful listen. The song’s animated beats paired with LaBelle’s dynamic vocal prowess create an invigorating musical experience. “Stir It Up” reached No. 5 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and contributed to the soundtrack winning the Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media in 1986. The song’s encouraging message coupled with its lively musical arrangement makes it a motivating and enjoyable track, demonstrating LaBelle’s versatility and her knack for creating catchy, memorable tunes.
6. “On My Own”
“On My Own” is a poignant ballad released in 1985, featuring a duet between Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald. The song explores the emotional turmoil and acceptance of moving forward independently after a romantic separation. The heartfelt lyrics delve into the feelings of loneliness and the desire to find one’s path “on my own.” LaBelle and McDonald’s harmonious vocal interplay brings a deep emotional resonance to the narrative, making the song a touching exploration of personal growth and self-discovery. Musically, “On My Own” is accompanied by a gentle piano melody and soft orchestration, which complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song was a commercial success, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing the universal appeal of its emotive narrative and the vocal chemistry between LaBelle and McDonald. “On My Own” remains a classic ballad in the annals of pop and R&B, reflecting LaBelle’s ability to convey profound emotional experiences through her music.
7. “Oh, People”
“Oh, People” is a socially conscious song by Patti LaBelle, released in 1986. This track is an appeal for unity, peace, and understanding among individuals regardless of their differences. LaBelle’s emotive vocals passionately deliver the song’s message, urging people to come together to create a better world. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of love, peace, and the commonality of human experience, aiming to inspire a sense of solidarity and compassion. Musically, “Oh, People” features a blend of pop and soul elements, with a powerful chorus that accentuates the song’s hopeful message. The orchestration builds a rich sonic landscape that carries the song’s earnest plea effectively. LaBelle’s commanding vocal performance paired with the song’s socially relevant message makes “Oh, People” a compelling listen, showcasing her ability to address significant societal issues through her music.
8. “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)”
“When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” is a soulful ballad released by Patti LaBelle in 1991. The song is a melodious expression of gratitude and the joy derived from life’s blessings. LaBelle’s vocals soar as she articulates the heavenly feeling of being blessed, be it through love, friendship, or life’s many other gifts. The song’s lyrics are heartwarming and uplifting, imparting a sense of contentment and appreciation for life’s precious moments. Musically, the song is a blend of R&B and gospel, with a melodious tune and gentle instrumentation that perfectly complements LaBelle’s soul-stirring vocal delivery. The chorus, rich with harmonies, resonates with a genuine sense of joy and thankfulness, making “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” a touching and inspiring listening experience. This song reflects LaBelle’s ability to infuse her music with positivity and heartfelt emotions, making it a cherished tune among her many timeless tracks.
9. “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)”
“Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” is an expressive and soulful track by Patti LaBelle from her 1991 album “Burnin’.” The song is a fervent declaration of love, with LaBelle’s powerful vocals encapsulating the depth of emotions she has for her beloved. The lyrics are a tender reassurance of unwavering love and the willingness to be there for the person she loves. Musically, the song is a beautiful blend of R&B and soul, with a melodious tune that is both comforting and heartwarming. LaBelle’s vocal delivery is as emotive as it is powerful, conveying a genuine sense of love and commitment. The musical arrangement complements the lyrical narrative, providing a soulful backdrop to LaBelle’s heartfelt declaration. “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” remains a cherished love song, embodying the emotive and soulful essence that is characteristic of LaBelle’s music.
10. “The Right Kinda Lover”
“The Right Kinda Lover” is a captivating track from Patti LaBelle’s 1994 album “Gems.” This song is a lively and playful expression of finding the perfect lover who meets all the expectations. LaBelle’s dynamic vocal prowess shines through as she describes the traits of the right kind of lover with a mix of sassiness and enthusiasm. The upbeat tempo and catchy rhythm make “The Right Kinda Lover” an engaging listen, showcasing LaBelle’s ability to delve into the theme of love with a lively and fun approach. The music is energetic with a funky groove that invites listeners to dance along. LaBelle’s vibrant performance, coupled with the catchy tune, makes “The Right Kinda Lover” a delightful and memorable track. Over the years, this song has been celebrated for its upbeat nature and LaBelle’s charismatic delivery, reflecting her versatility and timeless appeal in exploring themes of love and desire through her music.
David Morrison 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.
