soul music

noun

1. a fervent type of popular music developed in the late 1950s by Black Americans as a secularized form of gospel music, with rhythm-and-blues influences, and distinctive for its earthy expressiveness, variously plaintive or raucous vocals, and often passionate romanticism or sensuality.

Word History and Origins

Origin of soul music¹

An Americanism dating back to 1960–65

Example Sentences

“Really inspired by many aspects of my life and culture, from the Soul music era of the ’60s, when ‘The Tears of a Clown’ aired on the radio and classic Chevrolet Impalas were brand new.

From Los Angeles Times

"My mother would have the piano and the organ rocking every day. That's just the way it was in our house," she told Soul Music's Justin Krantor in 2009.

From BBC

The account owner is also a fan of soul music, with an entire playlist dedicated to the likes of Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin.

From Slate

In its main performance hall, I’ve listened to classical music and soul music and a reimagining of Bob Dylan.

From New York Times

He’ll be honored at ASCAP’s Rhythm & Soul Music Songwriters and Publishers event on June 27.

From Seattle Times