Al Green is one of the greatest soul and R&B singers of all time. His silky-smooth voice and soulful delivery made him an icon in the music industry. From the 1970s until today, Al Green’s music has remained popular and influential, with many artists citing him as an inspiration. His songs are timeless classics that have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with audiences all over the world.
In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Al Green songs of all time. These songs are a testament to Al Green’s incredible talent and the impact he has had on music. From the romantic ballads to the upbeat dance tunes, Al Green’s songs are a perfect mix of soul, funk, and R&B. We will take a closer look at each of these songs, exploring their history, lyrics, and what makes them stand out. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a newcomer to Al Green’s music, this list is sure to have something for everyone.
1. I’m a Ram
“I’m a Ram” is a classic soul track by Al Green, released in 1971 as part of his album “Al Green Gets Next to You.” The song features a driving rhythm section, with a funky bassline and upbeat horns that perfectly complement Green’s soulful vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s confidence and determination, with lines like “I’m a ram, and I’m tough, I’m a ram, and I’m rough” showcasing his swagger and charisma. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious groove make it a fan favorite and a staple of Green’s live performances. “I’m a Ram” is a testament to Green’s musical prowess and his ability to blend various genres into a cohesive and unforgettable sound. It remains one of his most beloved and timeless tracks, and a must-listen for any fans of soul and R&B music.
2. Back Up Train
“Back Up Train” is a 1967 debut single by Al Green, recorded before he became a soul icon. The song features a classic Motown-inspired sound, with a catchy horn section and a groovy bassline that complement Green’s smooth vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s determination to keep moving forward, with lines like “I’m gonna keep on movin’ my feet, till I reach that solid ground” reflecting his tenacity and drive. Despite being a relatively unknown song at the time of its release, “Back Up Train” quickly became a regional hit in the South and helped launch Green’s career in music. The song showcases Green’s early talent and his ability to craft catchy and memorable melodies. It remains a fan favorite and a testament to Green’s lasting influence on the soul and R&B genres.
3. Let’s Stay Together
“Let’s Stay Together” is a classic love ballad by Al Green, released in 1971 as part of his album of the same name. The song features a simple, yet iconic instrumental arrangement, with a memorable guitar riff and a soulful organ that perfectly complement Green’s smooth and tender vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s commitment to his lover, with lines like “I’m so in love with you, whatever you want to do, is all right with me” showcasing his devotion and adoration. The song became a massive hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing his status as a soul and R&B legend. “Let’s Stay Together” is a timeless classic that has remained a favorite of couples and music lovers around the world for over four decades.
4. Tired of Being Alone
“Tired of Being Alone” is a soulful ballad by Al Green, released in 1971 as part of his album “Al Green Gets Next to You.” The song features a sparse instrumental arrangement, with a gentle guitar riff and subtle horns that perfectly complement Green’s emotive vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s feelings of loneliness and longing for companionship, with lines like “I’m so tired of being alone, I’m so tired of being on my own” reflecting his vulnerability and emotional depth. The song became a hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and cementing his status as one of the greatest soul singers of all time. “Tired of Being Alone” remains a classic love song that has touched the hearts of listeners for over four decades, with its timeless lyrics and soulful delivery standing the test of time.
5. Beware
“Beware” is a classic soul track by Al Green, released in 1972 as part of his album “I’m Still in Love with You.” The song features a funky, uptempo instrumental arrangement, with a driving bassline and lively horns that perfectly complement Green’s energetic and charismatic vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s warning to his lover about the dangers of infidelity, with lines like “Beware of what you say, beware of what you do” showcasing his protective and assertive side. The song became a hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming a fan favorite. “Beware” remains a testament to Green’s musical versatility and his ability to blend various genres into a cohesive and unforgettable sound. It is a must-listen for any fans of soul and R&B music.
6. Sha-La-La (Make Me Happy)
“Sha-La-La (Make Me Happy)” is a soulful love song by Al Green, released in 1974 as part of his album “Al Green Explores Your Mind.” The song features a memorable instrumental arrangement, with a groovy bassline and catchy guitar riff that perfectly complement Green’s smooth and emotive vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s desire for his lover’s affection, with lines like “Darling, I want you to understand, that I’m in love with you, woman, and I need you to be my man” showcasing his romantic and passionate side. The song became a hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of his most popular tracks. “Sha-La-La (Make Me Happy)” is a classic love song that has stood the test of time, with its soulful delivery and catchy melody remaining a favorite of music lovers around the world.
7. Take Me To The River
“Take Me to the River” is a classic soul and R&B track by Al Green, released in 1974 as part of his album “Al Green Explores Your Mind.” The song features a funky instrumental arrangement, with a driving bassline and lively horns that perfectly complement Green’s soulful and emotive vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s desire to be cleansed by the river of love, with lines like “Take me to the river, wash me down, cleanse my soul, put my feet on the ground” showcasing his spiritual and introspective side. The song became a hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of his most beloved tracks. “Take Me to the River” is a testament to Green’s musical prowess and his ability to blend various genres into a cohesive and unforgettable sound. It remains a classic soul and R&B track that has inspired countless artists and music lovers around the world.
8. Love and Happiness
“Love and Happiness” is a classic soul and funk track by Al Green, released in 1972 as part of his album “I’m Still in Love with You.” The song features a catchy and upbeat instrumental arrangement, with a groovy bassline and lively horns that perfectly complement Green’s soulful and powerful vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s desire for love and happiness, with lines like “Love will make you happy if you find someone who cares, to love and cherish you always” showcasing his romantic and optimistic side. The song became a hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming a fan favorite. “Love and Happiness” is a testament to Green’s musical talent and his ability to create unforgettable soul and funk tracks that have stood the test of time. It remains a classic soul and funk track that continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this day.
9. Standing In The Rain
“Standing in the Rain” is a soulful ballad by Al Green, released in 1973 as part of his album “Call Me.” The song features a stripped-down instrumental arrangement, with a simple guitar riff and gentle organ that perfectly complement Green’s emotive and tender vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s feelings of loneliness and heartache, with lines like “Standing in the rain, feeling like a clown, everything has changed, you have left town” showcasing his vulnerability and emotional depth. The song highlights Green’s ability to convey complex emotions through his music and remains a fan favorite for its soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics. “Standing in the Rain” is a testament to Green’s lasting influence on the soul and R&B genres, and a must-listen for any fans of classic soul ballads.
10. Georgia Boy
“Georgia Boy” is a soulful and upbeat track by Al Green, released in 1975 as part of his album “Al Green Is Love.” The song features a lively instrumental arrangement, with a funky bassline and energetic horns that perfectly complement Green’s smooth and charismatic vocals. The lyrics speak of Green’s roots and pride in his home state of Georgia, with lines like “I’m a Georgia boy, born and raised, and I won’t let Georgia be disgraced” showcasing his sense of identity and belonging. The song became a hit for Green, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming a fan favorite. “Georgia Boy” is a testament to Green’s musical versatility and his ability to blend various genres into a cohesive and unforgettable sound. It remains a classic soul and R&B track that highlights Green’s talent and lasting impact on music.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.