Sam Cooke was a pioneer of soul music in the 1950s and 60s, and his influence can still be heard in the work of modern R&B and soul artists. His smooth, velvety voice and catchy melodies made him a favorite among music lovers of all generations. Despite his untimely death at the age of 33, Cooke left behind an incredible body of work that has stood the test of time.
In this article, we will be exploring the 10 best Sam Cooke songs of all time, taking a journey through the musical genius that was Sam Cooke. From his early gospel recordings to his later forays into pop and soul, we will be delving into the most iconic and memorable moments of Cooke’s career.
We will examine the impact of his music on the civil rights movement and his influence on other musicians. Each song on this list is a testament to Cooke’s incredible talent and musical legacy, and serves as a reminder of why he is still considered one of the greatest singers of all time.
So sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported through the incredible world of Sam Cooke’s music.
1. “Summertime”
“Summertime” is a classic jazz standard, composed by George Gershwin and lyricist DuBose Heyward. The song has been covered by numerous artists and has become a popular jazz standard, with its melancholic and soothing melody capturing the essence of a lazy, hazy summer day. Ella Fitzgerald’s rendition of the song is a standout, with her effortless vocals and soulful improvisation adding to the song’s emotional depth. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree summer day, with the narrator yearning for the simple pleasures of life. Overall, “Summertime” is a timeless masterpiece that captures the spirit of summer and the human experience.
2. “Little Red Rooster”
“Little Red Rooster” is a classic blues song, originally recorded by Willie Dixon in 1961. The song has since been covered by numerous artists, including The Rolling Stones, whose version is perhaps the most well-known. The song features a driving, hypnotic rhythm and simple but powerful lyrics that evoke the image of a proud rooster strutting around his territory. Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals and the band’s raw, bluesy sound give the song a gritty, authentic feel. With its combination of traditional blues elements and rock ‘n’ roll energy, “Little Red Rooster” remains a timeless classic that showcases The Rolling Stones’ ability to channel the spirit of the blues into their own unique sound.
3. “A Change Is Gonna Come”
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a soulful and powerful song by the legendary singer and songwriter Sam Cooke. The song was written during the height of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s and captures the struggle for racial equality in America. The emotional intensity of the song is enhanced by Cooke’s soulful vocals, with the lyrics touching on themes of hope, perseverance, and the belief that change is possible. The song has since become an anthem of hope and inspiration for marginalized communities around the world, and a symbol of the fight for justice and equality.
4. “Twistin’ The Night Away”
“Twistin’ the Night Away” is a lively and upbeat song by the legendary singer Sam Cooke, released in 1962. The song features a catchy, danceable rhythm and showcases Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the joy of dancing the night away, with references to popular dance crazes of the time such as the twist. The song’s infectious energy and Cooke’s masterful delivery have made it a beloved classic of the era, with its enduring popularity inspiring numerous covers and adaptations over the years. “Twistin’ the Night Away” remains a testament to Cooke’s incredible talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time.
5. “Having A Party”
“Having a Party” is an upbeat and festive song by the legendary singer and songwriter Sam Cooke. Released in 1962, the song features a lively rhythm and catchy lyrics that describe the joy of gathering with friends and loved ones to celebrate and have fun. Cooke’s soulful vocals and the song’s upbeat tempo create an infectious party atmosphere, with the lyrics encouraging listeners to let loose and enjoy the moment. With its timeless appeal and positive message, “Having a Party” has become a beloved classic of the era, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations over the years.
6. “(Ain’t That) Good News”
“(Ain’t That) Good News” is a joyful and optimistic song by the legendary singer and songwriter Sam Cooke. Released in 1964, the song features a lively and upbeat rhythm and showcases Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the power of positive thinking and the belief that good things are on the horizon. With its infectious energy and message of hope, “Ain’t That Good News” has become a beloved classic of the era, inspiring countless covers and adaptations over the years. The song remains a testament to Cooke’s incredible talent and his ability to uplift listeners with his music.
7. “Cupid”
“Cupid” is a romantic and whimsical song by the legendary singer and songwriter Sam Cooke. Released in 1961, the song features a catchy, upbeat rhythm and showcases Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the power of love, with the title character of Cupid acting as a metaphor for the feeling of being struck by love’s arrow. With its infectious melody and romantic lyrics, “Cupid” has become a beloved classic of the era, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations over the years. The song remains a testament to Cooke’s incredible talent as a songwriter and his ability to capture the spirit of romance through his music.
8. “Everybody Loves To Cha Cha Cha”
“Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha” is a lively and upbeat song by the legendary singer and songwriter Sam Cooke. Released in 1959, the song features a catchy, danceable rhythm and showcases Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the joy of dancing and the happiness it brings, with references to the popular dance craze of the time, the cha-cha. With its infectious energy and Cooke’s masterful delivery, “Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha” has become a beloved classic of the era, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations over the years. The song remains a testament to Cooke’s incredible talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time.
9. “That’s Where It’s At”
“That’s Where It’s At” is a soulful and rhythmic song by the legendary singer and songwriter Sam Cooke. Released in 1964, the song features a funky rhythm and showcases Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the power of love and the way it can transform a person’s life. With its infectious groove and Cooke’s masterful delivery, “That’s Where It’s At” has become a beloved classic of the era, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations over the years. The song remains a testament to Cooke’s incredible talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time.
10. “Blue Moon”
“Blue Moon” is a classic song originally written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1934, but it became a hit when Sam Cooke recorded his version in 1960. The song features a dreamy and romantic melody, with Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The lyrics describe the magic and beauty of a rare blue moon and the effect it can have on one’s emotions. With its timeless appeal and Cooke’s masterful delivery, “Blue Moon” has become a beloved classic of the era, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations over the years.