Few voices in music history can rival the electrifying power and soul-stirring emotion of Patti LaBelle. With a career spanning over six decades, the “Godmother of Soul” has left an indelible mark on the music world, delivering unforgettable performances and timeless hits. From her early days as the lead singer of the soulful girl group Labelle to her solo career that solidified her status as a music legend, Patti’s voice is a force of nature—raw, powerful, and deeply emotional.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular songs that showcase Patti’s extraordinary talent and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. These tracks are more than just songs—they’re anthems of love, resilience, and empowerment. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her incredible catalog, this list promises to remind you why Patti LaBelle is a true icon in every sense of the word.
So, get ready to groove, reminisce, and belt out those high notes as we count down the songs that have cemented Patti LaBelle’s legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time. Let the music take you on a journey you’ll never forget!
1. “Lady Marmalade” (1974)
“Lady Marmalade” exploded onto the music scene in 1974, quickly becoming a defining hit of the decade. Performed by LaBelle, the powerhouse trio led by Patti LaBelle, the song oozed confidence, sass, and sensuality. Its bold hook—“Voulez-vous coucher avec moi ce soir?”—was provocative, mysterious, and impossible to ignore. But beyond the flashy line and funky rhythm, “Lady Marmalade” was about reclaiming female power and presence in a genre often dominated by male voices. The track’s infectious groove, driven by wah-wah guitars and a deep funk bassline, provided the perfect backdrop for Patti’s fiery and fearless vocals. Her voice soared with conviction, turning the song into more than just a catchy tune—it was an anthem. Written by Bob Crewe and Kenny Nolan, and produced by Allen Toussaint, “Lady Marmalade” brought together the vibrancy of New Orleans funk with the glamour of disco-era soul. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has remained a cultural touchstone ever since. Whether you know it from its original release or the later all-star remake in 2001, “Lady Marmalade” remains a timeless celebration of bold femininity and musical swagger.
2. “If Only You Knew” (1983)
“If Only You Knew” is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, delivered through one of Patti LaBelle’s most vulnerable and breathtaking performances. Released in 1983 from her album I’m in Love Again, this ballad speaks to the quiet ache of loving someone in secret—longing for them, but holding back out of fear or uncertainty. The lyrics are beautifully understated, but Patti’s delivery gives them soul-deep resonance. Her voice moves from a whisper to a full-throated cry, capturing the raw emotion behind every word. The song’s arrangement—layered with gentle piano, lush strings, and restrained percussion—creates a perfect canvas for Patti’s vocals to shine. It was her first No. 1 hit on the Billboard R&B chart and played a crucial role in establishing her as a solo powerhouse after years with LaBelle. “If Only You Knew” remains a favorite because of how deeply it connects with listeners who’ve ever experienced one-sided love or the fear of baring their heart. It’s not just a ballad—it’s a confession set to music, sung by one of the most expressive voices in soul. Patti doesn’t just sing the song—she lives it in every note.
3. “On My Own” (1986)
“On My Own,” released in 1986, is one of Patti LaBelle’s most successful and beloved songs, thanks in large part to her unforgettable duet with Michael McDonald. This emotionally charged ballad explores the pain and acceptance that come with a breakup—two people realizing they have to part ways, even if love still lingers. The chemistry between Patti and Michael is undeniable; their voices intertwine with heartbreak and grace, each bringing their own soulful intensity to the track. Patti’s vocals, soaring and rich, contrast beautifully with Michael’s raspy tenderness, creating a duet that feels deeply real and human. The arrangement, driven by piano and soft orchestration, gives the singers room to pour out their emotion without distraction. “On My Own” was a massive crossover hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary charts, proving that great songs about love and loss transcend genre. It became a career-defining moment for Patti, broadening her audience and solidifying her place in pop and R&B history. More than a breakup song, “On My Own” is about resilience—the strength it takes to face the future when the past still tugs at your heart.
4. “New Attitude” (1984)
With “New Attitude,” Patti LaBelle reinvented herself for a new era—and she did it with style, sass, and unstoppable energy. Released in 1984 as part of the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack, this upbeat anthem marked a turning point in her solo career. The song is all about self-discovery and transformation, capturing the feeling of stepping into a new version of yourself with confidence and clarity. From the first synth-driven beat to Patti’s spirited vocals, “New Attitude” radiates empowerment. It’s a track that doesn’t just talk about change—it feels like change, pulsing with renewed energy. Patti belts out the lyrics with a fiery determination that makes you want to stand taller and own your space. The production is classic ’80s, with punchy drums, funky guitar lines, and a bold hook that begs to be danced to. This song introduced Patti to a younger, mainstream audience and became a staple on dance floors and radio stations alike. More than just a soundtrack hit, “New Attitude” became a personal mantra for many, encouraging listeners to shake off the past and embrace the power of self-worth. It’s a timeless celebration of growth and renewal.
5. “You Are My Friend” (1978)
“You Are My Friend” is one of Patti LaBelle’s most cherished songs—a heartfelt ballad that speaks to the enduring power of friendship. Released in 1978 on her self-titled solo debut, the track was co-written by Patti, her then-husband Armstead Edwards, and producer James “Budd” Ellison. Drawing on her gospel roots, Patti delivers the song with a reverence and warmth that feels like a loving embrace. The lyrics are simple but profound, affirming loyalty, trust, and unconditional love. With lines like “You are my friend / I never knew till then,” the song gently unfolds as a tribute to the people who stand by us even when we’re at our lowest. Patti’s vocals build from a soft, prayerful beginning to a soul-stirring climax that leaves listeners breathless. The song’s gospel influences are unmistakable, with soaring background harmonies and a church-like swell that makes every note feel sacred. “You Are My Friend” wasn’t a massive commercial hit, but it became a fan favorite and a staple of Patti’s live performances. Over time, it has become a spiritual anthem of sorts—a reminder that true friendship is a gift worth singing about with all your heart.
6. “Love, Need and Want You” (1983)
“Love, Need and Want You” is one of Patti LaBelle’s smoothest and most seductive slow jams. Released in 1983 from her I’m In Love Again album, the song is a masterclass in understated passion. From the moment it begins, the track drapes the listener in silky R&B production—soft keyboards, a mellow beat, and gentle background harmonies. But it’s Patti’s voice that makes the magic happen. With incredible restraint and warmth, she delivers each lyric like a personal confession, letting every word linger with longing. The song explores the complexity of romantic desire—not just wanting someone physically, but needing them emotionally and spiritually. Patti’s delivery captures that deep ache of love that isn’t casual or fleeting—it’s all-consuming. What makes this song so timeless is its intimacy; it doesn’t shout to get your attention. Instead, it pulls you in with tenderness and soul. It has become one of her most sampled and referenced tracks in hip-hop and R&B, showing just how much its influence continues to resonate. “Love, Need and Want You” remains a shining example of how Patti can express vulnerability with elegance, making heartbreak and yearning sound utterly beautiful.
7. “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” (1991)
“Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” is a soulful reminder of enduring love and devotion, released in 1991 as part of Patti LaBelle’s Burnin’ album. The track glows with warmth from the first note, combining smooth instrumentation with Patti’s trademark emotional intensity. The groove is laid-back and silky, but there’s a quiet strength in both the lyrics and her vocal delivery. Patti sings as someone who loves deeply and wants the listener to know—without question—that they are cherished. The phrase “you know who it is” adds a personal, almost whispered quality, as if this message is coming straight from the heart of someone who has been there all along. Her voice, as always, rises with passion at just the right moments, lifting the song from gentle reassurance to gospel-tinged affirmation. It became a major R&B hit and a favorite among fans for its sincerity and warmth. “Somebody Loves You Baby” isn’t flashy—it’s honest. And that honesty is what makes it one of Patti’s most powerful love songs. It’s about being seen, being loved, and being reminded that no matter what, someone has your back.
8. “Stir It Up” (1985)
“Stir It Up” is a burst of high-energy funk that showcases Patti LaBelle’s fierce charisma and boundless vocal power. Released in 1985 and featured on the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack, this track proved that Patti could take on the pop-funk world just as effortlessly as she did ballads and soul classics. The song is an invitation to action—it’s bold, dynamic, and unapologetically fun. With its driving beat, punchy horns, and a groove that demands movement, “Stir It Up” lives up to its title. Patti’s vocals are electric here—playful, commanding, and full of attitude. She doesn’t just sing the lyrics; she owns them, bringing a kinetic energy that transforms the song into a full-on party. While it didn’t chart as high as some of her ballads, it became a staple of her live shows and is still beloved for its infectious spirit. The message is clear: shake things up, find your spark, and don’t be afraid to shine. “Stir It Up” is Patti in her element—bold, brilliant, and totally in control. It’s a celebration of life, energy, and the power of showing up with everything you’ve got.
9. “If You Asked Me To” (1989)
Originally recorded for the License to Kill soundtrack in 1989, “If You Asked Me To” is a deeply emotional ballad that highlights Patti LaBelle’s extraordinary ability to infuse vulnerability with strength. Written by Diane Warren, the song is a plea for love—a gentle, yet powerful request for a second chance or an open door to something more. Patti’s performance is nothing short of stunning. She begins softly, with a sense of cautious hope, and builds to a soul-shaking crescendo that leaves no doubt about the depth of her longing. The orchestration is cinematic, with sweeping strings and dramatic flourishes that match the song’s emotional scope. While Celine Dion would later have a hit with her own version, Patti’s original remains the gold standard for many fans. It’s raw, honest, and unfiltered—qualities that define the best of Patti’s work. This song doesn’t rely on tricks or trends; it stands on the strength of its emotion and the sincerity in Patti’s voice. “If You Asked Me To” is more than just a love song—it’s a testimony to what happens when a powerhouse vocalist lays her heart bare and asks, “What if?”
10. “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” (1991)
“When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” is one of Patti LaBelle’s most uplifting and spiritually moving songs, released in 1991 as part of her Grammy-winning album Burnin’. This track is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and divine joy, blending gospel, soul, and pop into a radiant anthem of thanksgiving. From the first note, you can hear Patti’s church roots come alive. The song swells with triumphant horns, soaring harmonies, and rich instrumentation that feels like Sunday morning revival wrapped in a radio-ready groove. Patti sings with unmistakable conviction, her voice filled with both power and praise. Every lyric reflects a deep appreciation for life’s blessings, both big and small. It’s a song that doesn’t just acknowledge grace—it revels in it. When she sings the chorus—“Feels like heaven when you’ve been blessed”—you believe her, because she sings it from a place of lived experience. Whether you hear it as a gospel testimony or an inspiring message of personal growth, this song radiates positivity. “When You’ve Been Blessed” isn’t just about good times—it’s about recognizing the beauty in all seasons and giving thanks. Patti makes you feel like you’ve been blessed just by listening.
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.
