Sam Cooke, also known as the “King of Soul,” was a pioneering musician in the 1950s and 60s who left a profound impact on the music industry. His smooth and velvety voice, coupled with his soulful lyrics, inspired countless artists and fans alike, and his music continues to be beloved by generations. Cooke’s career was cut short tragically in 1964 when he was shot and killed at the age of 33, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 10 best Sam Cooke songs of all time. From his early hits as a member of The Soul Stirrers to his later solo work, Cooke’s discography is filled with a wide range of musical styles and themes. We’ll explore his iconic ballads such as “A Change is Gonna Come” and “You Send Me,” as well as his upbeat and danceable tunes like “Twistin’ the Night Away” and “Chain Gang.” Additionally, we’ll delve into some lesser-known gems from his catalog that are worth discovering.
Whether you’re a die-hard Sam Cooke fan or simply a lover of soulful music, this article will take you on a journey through the best of the best of Sam Cooke’s timeless and unforgettable music.
1. Twistin the Night Away
“Twistin’ the Night Away” is a catchy and upbeat song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1962. The song features a lively rhythm and memorable lyrics about dancing and having a good time. With its catchy hook and infectious energy, it quickly became a hit and remains a beloved classic to this day. The song also showcases Cooke’s talent for combining different musical genres, as it incorporates elements of R&B, soul, and pop. “Twistin’ the Night Away” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create timeless and joyful music that continues to delight listeners over half a century after its initial release.
2. Another Saturday Night
“Another Saturday Night” is a soulful and melancholic song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1963. The song tells the story of a lonely man who spends another Saturday night alone, yearning for companionship and connection. Despite the bittersweet lyrics, the song features an upbeat tempo and catchy melody that make it a joy to listen to. With its relatable lyrics and Cooke’s emotive vocals, “Another Saturday Night” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song is a testament to Cooke’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotion in his music and to create songs that speak to the heart.
3. That’s Where It’s At
“That’s Where It’s At” is a soulful and funky song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1964. The song features a driving beat and upbeat lyrics about finding love and happiness. With its catchy hook and groovy instrumentation, the song showcases Cooke’s talent for blending different musical genres, including soul, R&B, and gospel. The song also features Cooke’s signature smooth vocals, which are full of passion and energy. “That’s Where It’s At” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that is both uplifting and heartfelt, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and delight listeners today.
4. Shake
“Shake” is an upbeat and danceable song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1965. The song features a catchy rhythm and lively lyrics about letting loose and having fun. With its driving beat and funky instrumentation, the song showcases Cooke’s versatility as a musician and his ability to infuse different genres of music with his own unique style. The song also features Cooke’s trademark smooth vocals, which are full of energy and charisma. “Shake” is a testament to Cooke’s talent for creating music that is both fun and sophisticated, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to get people moving and grooving to this day.
5. You Were Made For Me
“You Were Made For Me” is a sweet and romantic song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1958. The song features a gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics about finding true love. With its simple yet poignant lyrics and Cooke’s smooth, tender vocals, the song captures the feeling of falling in love and the joy that comes with it. The song also showcases Cooke’s talent for creating music that is both beautiful and meaningful, and his ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. “You Were Made For Me” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners with its message of love and devotion.
6. Cupid
“Cupid” is a classic and timeless song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1961. The song features a gentle melody and poetic lyrics about the power of love. With its memorable hook and Cooke’s soulful vocals, the song has become a beloved classic that is instantly recognizable to listeners of all generations. The song also showcases Cooke’s ability to infuse his music with elements of different genres, including R&B, soul, and pop. “Cupid” is a testament to Cooke’s talent for creating music that is both romantic and uplifting, and it remains a staple of love song playlists to this day.
7. You Send Me
“You Send Me” is a soulful and romantic song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1957. The song features a gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics about the overwhelming feeling of falling in love. With its smooth and silky vocals, the song showcases Cooke’s talent for creating music that is both intimate and universal, and it has become a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners today. The song also helped establish Cooke’s career as a solo artist, as it was his first major hit and went on to top the charts for several weeks. “You Send Me” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to capture the essence of human emotion in his music and to create songs that speak to the heart.
8. Wonderful World
“Wonderful World” is a feel-good and upbeat song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1960. The song features a catchy melody and optimistic lyrics about the beauty of the world and the joys of love. With its memorable hook and Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals, the song has become a beloved classic that is instantly recognizable to listeners of all ages. The song also showcases Cooke’s ability to infuse his music with elements of different genres, including pop, R&B, and soul. “Wonderful World” is a testament to Cooke’s talent for creating music that is both uplifting and meaningful, and it remains a timeless anthem of hope and positivity that continues to inspire and delight listeners today.
9. A Change Is Gonna Come
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a powerful and poignant song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1964. The song features a soulful and melancholic melody and lyrics that reflect on the struggle for civil rights and the hope for a better future. With its heartfelt and emotive vocals, the song has become an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement and a testament to the power of music to inspire social change. The song also showcases Cooke’s ability to create music that is both socially relevant and deeply personal, and it remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a testament to Cooke’s enduring legacy as a pioneer of soul music and a voice for justice and equality.
10. Bring It On Home To Me
“Bring It On Home To Me” is a soulful and heartfelt song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1962. The song features a catchy melody and poignant lyrics about the pain of separation and the desire to be reunited with a loved one. With its smooth and soulful vocals, the song showcases Cooke’s talent for creating music that is both intimate and relatable. The song also features a gospel-inspired call-and-response section that highlights Cooke’s roots in the church and adds to the emotional intensity of the song. “Bring It On Home To Me” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners with its message of love and longing, and it remains a beloved staple of soul and R&B playlists to this day.
