Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
soul music
Noun
/soʊl ˈmjuːzɪk/
Definition
A genre of music that combines elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz, characterized by its emotive vocal style and deep expression.
Examples
- Aretha Franklin’s voice is a quintessential example of classic soul music.
- Many artists from the Motown era contributed to the development of soul music.
- He loves soul music, especially the smooth sounds of Marvin Gaye.
Meaning
Soul music originated in the African American community in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. It emphasizes strong vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a focus on personal experiences and themes such as love and social issues.
Synonyms
- Rhythm and blues
- R&B
- Gospel music