Memphis Soul

Memphis soul is a genre of soul music characterized by its raw, emotive sound, driven by a distinctive blend of rhythmic grooves, horn sections, and heartfelt, gospel-infused vocals. Emerging in the 1960s, it was shaped by the city's rich musical heritage, where blues, gospel, and R&B traditions intersected. At its peak, Memphis soul was marked by the Stax Records sound, with artists like Otis Redding and Sam & Dave crafting hits that showcased the genre's signature blend of gritty, Southern-fried funk and tender, soulful balladry. The genre's cultural significance lies in its authentic, unbridled expression of African American emotions and experiences during a pivotal era in American history. Memphis soul's unique sound, distinguished by its use of horns, Hammond organ, and percussive rhythms, set it apart from other soul styles, such as Motown's more polished, pop-infused sound.

Latest Memphis Soul Release
undefined album image
Reign Down
Single - Released December 18, 2024

RecentMusic users are tracking 27 Memphis Soul artists for new releases, and have access to the full timeline of 670 releases .

Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the Memphis Soul artists you love!

Get Started Browse Releases
Al Green
Albert King
Ann Peebles
Aretha Franklin
Booker T. & the M.G.'s
Carl Sims
Carla Thomas
Eddie Floyd
Isaac Hayes
James Carr
Linda Lyndell
Little Milton
Liz Brasher
Mel & Tim
Otis Clay
Otis Redding
Rufus Thomas
Sam & Dave
Steve Cropper
Susan Marshall
Syl Johnson
The Bo-Keys
The Dramatics
The Staple Singers
The Temptations
William Bell
Wilson Pickett
Otis Redding
Aretha Franklin
The Temptations
Al Green
Sam & Dave
Booker T. & the M.G.'s
Wilson Pickett
Ann Peebles
Albert King
The Staple Singers
Isaac Hayes
The Dramatics
Eddie Floyd
William Bell
Carla Thomas
Syl Johnson
Linda Lyndell
Rufus Thomas
James Carr
Otis Clay
Little Milton
Mel & Tim
Steve Cropper
Carl Sims
Liz Brasher
The Bo-Keys
Susan Marshall