Few artists in the history of soul music have left a mark as indelible as Wilson Pickett. Known for his electrifying voice, gritty delivery, and infectious energy, Pickett was a driving force behind the rise of 1960s and 70s rhythm and blues. His music embodies the raw emotion, joyful exuberance, and deep passion that define the genre. From the moment his powerful voice hit the airwaves, Pickett became an unstoppable force, churning out hit after hit that still resonate with listeners today. With a career spanning decades, he crafted some of the most memorable and influential songs in R&B history, each one filled with his signature blend of soulful grit and undeniable groove. In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular Wilson Pickett songs of all time, exploring the tracks that not only defined his career but also helped shape the sound of American soul music. From timeless classics like “In the Midnight Hour” to the funky rhythms of “Mustang Sally,” these songs capture the essence of a true music legend whose influence continues to inspire generations. Get ready to revisit the unmistakable sound of one of soul’s greatest voices!
1. “In the Midnight Hour” (1965)
Released in June 1965, “In the Midnight Hour” is often hailed as Wilson Pickett’s defining song and a cornerstone of the soul genre. Co-written with the legendary Steve Cropper of Booker T. & the MG’s, this track has a timeless appeal, with a groove that has captivated listeners for decades. Its pulsating rhythm, born in the iconic Stax Studios of Memphis, laid the foundation for Southern soul music. Pickett’s powerful, raw vocals soar over the steady backbeat, turning his plea for love “in the midnight hour” into a passionate anthem. The perfect blend of gospel fervor and a laid-back, danceable beat helped catapult the song to the top of the R&B charts. It became an instant classic, solidifying Pickett’s legacy as a soul icon. “In the Midnight Hour” continues to inspire artists and remains a staple in the world of music, its influence evident in the numerous covers and tributes that have followed. Even decades after its release, the song still resonates with audiences, a testament to its enduring power and Pickett’s unmatched artistry.
2. “Mustang Sally” (1966)
With its infectious groove and memorable chorus, “Mustang Sally” quickly became one of Wilson Pickett’s most beloved hits after its release in November 1966. Written by Mack Rice, the song was transformed by Pickett into a timeless R&B classic. Its playful lyrics, revolving around a woman with a love for her fast car, struck a chord with listeners. The catchy “ride, Sally, ride” refrain, along with Pickett’s gritty, soulful vocal delivery, made it a crowd favorite. The bluesy rhythm, paired with the call-and-response structure, adds an extra layer of energy that elevates the track to iconic status. “Mustang Sally” not only became a massive hit, but it also solidified Pickett’s position as a key figure in the soul music scene. Its popularity endures today, with the song frequently featured in films, television shows, and live performances. Decades later, it remains a quintessential piece of soul music history, continuing to inspire audiences to dance and sing along.
3. “Land of 1000 Dances” (1966)
Released in July 1966, “Land of 1000 Dances” is one of Wilson Pickett’s most energetic and dance-inducing hits. Originally written by Chris Kenner, the song had been recorded before, but it was Pickett’s electrifying version, backed by the powerful Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, that brought it to new heights. The driving horn section and Pickett’s unstoppable energy make this track impossible to sit still to. The famous “na na na na” chant has become a cultural staple, an anthem that reverberated through dance halls across the 1960s. The song quickly soared to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and captured the joy and essence of Pickett’s fiery live performances. “Land of 1000 Dances” is a celebration of movement, rhythm, and the sheer fun of dancing, embodying the raw power and intensity of Wilson Pickett’s stage presence. To this day, it remains one of his most beloved tracks and a timeless ode to the power of music to move both body and soul.
4. “Funky Broadway” (1967)
Wilson Pickett’s 1967 rendition of “Funky Broadway” was groundbreaking for a number of reasons. Released in July, it was the first song to feature the word “funky” in its title, marking a crucial turning point in the evolution of soul music into funk. Written by Arlester “Dyke” Christian, Pickett’s raw and gritty take on the song helped it soar to new heights. The track’s pulsating groove, anchored by a tight horn section and Pickett’s commanding vocal style, made it a surefire hit on the dance floors. The lyrics tell the story of an urban scene, with Broadway serving as a metaphor for the vibrant, sometimes chaotic nightlife of city streets. With its infectious energy and groundbreaking sound, “Funky Broadway” marked a new chapter in R&B history, establishing Wilson Pickett as one of the leading artists driving the genre’s transformation. The song not only became a dancefloor staple but also played a key role in shaping the future of funk music.
5. “634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)” (1966)
February 1966 saw the release of “634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.),” a playful and soulful track that showcased Wilson Pickett’s knack for fusing catchy hooks with emotional depth. Co-written by Eddie Floyd and Steve Cropper, the song’s title cleverly references a fictional phone number, drawing listeners in from the get-go. With the tight instrumentation of the Stax house band behind him, Pickett’s smooth yet powerful vocal performance shines, effortlessly gliding over a funky rhythm section. The song’s combination of irresistible groove and memorable lyrics helped it top the R&B charts while also finding success on the pop charts. “634-5789” is a shining example of the soul-drenched, danceable tunes that made Pickett a star in the 1960s. Even today, it stands as one of the quintessential tracks from that era, highlighting Pickett’s unique ability to blend fun, soul, and sincerity into one unforgettable package.
6. “Don’t Let the Green Grass Fool You” (1970)
Released in December 1970, “Don’t Let the Green Grass Fool You” is a standout track that blends elements of soul, pop, and gospel, demonstrating Wilson Pickett’s versatility as a performer. The song’s message of not being swayed by appearances or distractions resonated deeply with listeners. As always, Pickett’s vocals carry the emotional weight of the song, delivering the lyrics with heartfelt sincerity and passion. The lush production, complete with vibrant horns and a steady, captivating groove, makes the song instantly appealing while retaining the depth that Pickett was known for. “Don’t Let the Green Grass Fool You” became a hit on both the R&B and pop charts, proving that Pickett could still create magic as soul music evolved into the 1970s. Its timeless message and Pickett’s exceptional delivery continue to make it a favorite among his fans.
7. “Ninety-Nine and a Half (Won’t Do)” (1966)
In May 1966, Wilson Pickett released “Ninety-Nine and a Half (Won’t Do),” a fiery soul anthem that showcases his ability to turn a simple phrase into a powerful declaration. The song’s core message is unmistakable: when it comes to love, nothing less than full commitment will suffice. Powered by a driving rhythm section and bold horn arrangements, Pickett’s passionate vocal delivery takes center stage, hammering home the song’s demand for all-or-nothing dedication. Drawing heavily on gospel influences, the track features a call-and-response dynamic that heightens the sense of urgency. “Ninety-Nine and a Half (Won’t Do)” became a Top 20 hit on the R&B charts and remains a beloved part of Pickett’s repertoire. Its mix of emotional intensity and musical power makes it one of his defining tracks, a perfect example of his ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level.
8. “Hey Jude” (1969)
Wilson Pickett’s soul-infused cover of The Beatles’ “Hey Jude,” released in February 1969, is widely regarded as one of the greatest reinterpretations of a rock song by a soul artist. Pickett’s version adds a layer of raw, emotional intensity that transforms the original into a deeply powerful R&B experience. Featuring a blistering guitar solo by Duane Allman, the track elevates the pop ballad into a gospel-like anthem of hope and resilience. Pickett’s raspy, impassioned vocals bring the song to life in a way that’s both spiritual and deeply personal, turning “Hey Jude” into a soulful sermon. The track was a commercial success, landing in the Top 20 on the R&B charts, and further solidified Pickett’s reputation as a master of soul. His ability to take a well-known song and make it entirely his own remains one of the hallmarks of his career.
9. “Engine No. 9” (1970)
Released in July 1970, “Engine No. 9” is one of Wilson Pickett’s funkiest tracks, driven by a relentless, chugging groove and a pulsating rhythm that perfectly captures the energy of the era’s funk-soul sound. Pickett’s raspy, powerful voice rides over the music with the force of a runaway train, delivering lyrics that are charged with urgency and intensity. The repetitive hook and infectious bassline make “Engine No. 9” an undeniable dancefloor hit, while the accompanying horn section adds a level of sophistication to the track’s raw, gritty vibe. This song is a perfect example of Pickett’s ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the 1970s while still staying true to his soul roots. Its high-energy, funk-infused sound made it an instant favorite and further demonstrated Pickett’s knack for crafting unforgettable hits.
10. “I’m in Love” (1967)
Released in December 1967, “I’m in Love” showcases a tender and romantic side of Wilson Pickett, highlighting his ability to express deep emotion through his voice. Written by the legendary Bobby Womack, this soulful ballad is a love song that truly resonates with listeners. The smooth, laid-back arrangement, featuring soft horns and a gentle rhythm, creates the perfect backdrop for Pickett’s heartfelt vocal delivery. The song’s lyrics speak of the overwhelming feelings that come with being in love, and Pickett’s performance brings those emotions to life with sincerity and warmth. “I’m in Love” reached the top of the R&B charts, demonstrating that Pickett was equally adept at delivering soulful ballads as he was at performing upbeat, energetic tracks. This song remains one of his most beloved ballads, showcasing the emotional depth and versatility that made him a true soul legend.