Once upon a time, good music ruled the world and the world simply couldn't get enough of it. Now there is nostalgia for such good music. But where did all that good music go?

Image courtesy Unsplash

If you grew up in the 70s, 80s, or 90s, you know what it means to have lived in an era where music was truly unforgettable. Those decades produced artists who were crafted differently from today’s performers—musicians whose songs were heartfelt, soulful, and timeless.

The music of that era wasn’t just entertainment; it was an experience. Lyrics about love, friendship, togetherness, and everyday life touched the hearts of an entire generation. Fans didn’t just listen—they memorized every word, sang along at the top of their lungs, and let the music become part of their own stories.

Even today, these classic hits continue to resonate. For anyone who grew up with these songs, the melodies bring back vivid memories of first loves, weekend adventures, and moments that shaped who they are. The music was inspiring, moving, and authentic—a golden era that left a mark on generations.

Where Did All That Good Music Go?

You might ask: “Where did all that good music go? Where are the artists whose soulful beats and unforgettable lyrics defined our youth?”

The truth is, much of this legendary music is still with us. Some of the artists have passed away, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Others have stepped back from the spotlight, choosing a quieter life—but many are still performing, touring, and keeping their music alive for fans both old and new.

Nostalgia: Music That Lives in Our Hearts

Nostalgia is powerful because it connects us to a time when music was pure, original, and full of emotion. These songs kept our spirits alive, inspired us, and made us fall in love, sometimes for the very first time. Even today, we hum these tunes, replay old albums, and share them with younger generations who can’t help but fall in love with the magic of these classic hits.

So, who are your favorite artists, bands, or groups from the 70s, 80s, or 90s? Which songs still make you smile, dance, or remember a cherished memory? Below is a list that we are compiling bit by bit, as we explore the music of this era. Feel free to scroll through the list...

 
The soul/funk era was the era of vynl records. The record player was what made the music that was stamped onto these vynl plates, unique. The dance floor showed which songs had the most approval by audiences.

  In an era when good music was marked by human creativity, a lot of the your favorite songs became timeless classic running through generations of listeners.

 This list includes some of the most iconic and influential soul and funk tracks that shaped the genre, complete with their release years! With 50 of the Best Soul/Funk Songs, welcome to a world of music from past years that had the audience dancing. 

Years later, that same audience reminisces on those good times of their youth, wondering if such timeless funk and soul hits will ever be made again.                

      50 Best Soul/Funk Songs playlist and release dates                  

  1.  Superstition – Stevie Wonder (1972)                                

  2.  Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag – James Brown(1965) 

  3.  Let’s Stay Together – Al Green (1972)                              

  4.  I Want You Back – The Jackson 5 (1969)                             

  5.  Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell(1967)

  6.  September – Earth, Wind & Fire (1978)                             

  7.  Pick Up the Pieces – Average White Band (1974)                     

  8.  Give Up the Funk – Parliament (1975)                               

  9.  Tell Me Something Good – Rufus & Chaka Khan (1974)                

 10.  Rock Steady – Aretha Franklin (1971)                               

 11.  Move On Up – Curtis Mayfield (1970)                                

 12.  Shining Star – Earth, Wind & Fire (1975)                           

 13.  Jungle Boogie – Kool & The Gang (1973)                             

 14.  Got to Give It Up – Marvin Gaye (1977)                             

 15.  Family Affair – Sly & The Family Stone (1971)                      

 16.  What’s Going On – Marvin Gaye (1971)                               

 17.  Flash Light – Parliament (1977)                                    

 18.  Get Down on It – Kool & The Gang (1981)                            

 19.  The Payback – James Brown (1973)                                   

 20.  If You Want Me to Stay – Sly & The Family Stone (1973)             

 21.  You Make Me Feel Like Dancing – Leo Sayer (1976)                   

 22.  Love and Happiness – Al Green (1972)                               

 23.  Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe – Barry White (1974)           

 24.  Use Me – Bill Withers (1972)                                       

 25.  She’s a Bad Mama Jama – Carl Carlton (1981)                        

 26.  Clean Up Woman – Betty Wright (1971)                               

 27.  Funky Stuff – Kool & The Gang (1973)                               

 28.  Give Me the Night – George Benson (1980)                           

 29.  Back in Love Again – L.T.D. (1977)                                 

 30.  Do I Do – Stevie Wonder (1982)                                     

 31.  Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) – Sly & The Family Stone (1969)

 32.  Ain’t Nobody – Chaka Khan (1983)                                   

 33.  Best of My Love – The Emotions (1977)                              

 34.  Let’s Groove – Earth, Wind & Fire (1980)                           

 35.  Funky Nassau – The Beginning of the End (1971)                     

 36.  Slippery When Wet – The Commodores (1975)                          

 37.  Who Is He (And What Is He to You)? – Bill Withers (1972)          

 38.  Right Place, Wrong Time – Dr. John (1973)                           

 39.  Be Thankful for What You Got – William DeVaughn (1974)             

 40.  Hollywood Swinging – Kool & The Gang (1974)                        

 41.  I Can’t Stand the Rain – Ann Peebles (1973)                         

 42.  Soul Man – Sam & Dave (1967)                                       

 43.  Dance to the Music – Sly & The Family Stone (1967)                 

 44.  Boogie Wonderland – Earth, Wind & Fire (1979)                      

 45.  Express Yourself – Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band(1970)

 46.  I Got You (I Feel Good) – James Brown (1965)                        

 47.  Car Wash – Rose Royce (1976)                                        

 48.  Get Ready – The Temptations (1966)                                  

 49.  Me and Mrs. Jones – Billy Paul (1972)                               

 50.  Mr. Big Stuff – Jean Knight (1971) 

This playlist may not include all the genre's top classic hits. However if you think that a song must be on the list but isn't included, just drop the name of the song, the artist and the year the song was released.

All songs can be found on some of your favorite music platforms such as,

Spotify

Youtube Music

SoundCloud

Apple Music, and so many more.

If you found this post interesting, please like and share.