“Sam Cooke” was one of the most influential and iconic voices of the 20th century. He is regarded as a pioneer of soul music, and his smooth and velvety voice inspired countless artists in the years that followed. Cooke’s music continues to be celebrated and revered today, decades after his untimely death.
In this list of the 10 Best Sam Cooke Songs of All Time, we will explore the songs that have had the greatest impact on listeners and have stood the test of time. From soulful ballads to upbeat rock and roll tunes, Cooke’s catalog is filled with hits that have touched the hearts of audiences around the world.
Each song in this list is a testament to Cooke’s unparalleled talent, his gift for storytelling, and his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this list is sure to highlight some of the most memorable and timeless songs from one of the greatest voices in music history.
1. “Bring It On Home To Me”
“Bring It On Home To Me” is a classic soul ballad originally written and performed by Sam Cooke in 1962. The song features Cooke’s signature smooth, emotive vocals set against a backdrop of a simple yet effective arrangement, which includes gentle guitar strumming, backing vocals, and a subtle horn section.
The lyrics tell a story of a man pleading with his lover to come back to him, promising to be faithful and committed. The song’s heartfelt plea, coupled with Cooke’s impeccable vocal delivery, makes it a timeless classic that has been covered by numerous artists and continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
2. “A Change Is Gonna Come”
“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a powerful and moving song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1964. The song is a heartfelt plea for equality and social justice, inspired by Cooke’s personal experiences with racism and segregation in the United States. The song’s lyrics are deeply emotional and reflective, with Cooke’s soulful vocals expressing both pain and hope.
The song’s soaring orchestration adds to its emotional impact, building to a powerful climax. “A Change Is Gonna Come” has since become an anthem for the Civil Rights movement, and remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners with its message of hope and perseverance.
3. “You Send Me”
“You Send Me” is a classic R&B love song by Sam Cooke that was released in 1957. The song features Cooke’s velvety-smooth vocals set against a simple yet elegant arrangement of piano, bass, and drums. The lyrics express the joy and euphoria of falling in love, with Cooke’s tender delivery capturing the feeling of being swept off one’s feet by a new love interest.
The song’s simple yet effective melody and timeless sentiment have made it a favorite among listeners for generations. “You Send Me” remains one of Cooke’s most enduring and beloved songs, a testament to his ability to capture the essence of human emotion through music.
4. “Summertime”
“Summertime” is a classic song by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1957 as a single. The song is a cover of the Gershwin brothers’ classic composition from the 1935 opera “Porgy and Bess.” Cooke’s version features his signature smooth, soulful vocals set against a simple yet elegant arrangement of guitar, bass, and drums.
The song’s lyrics describe the carefree and idyllic days of summer, evoking images of lazy afternoons and warm, starry nights. Cooke’s emotive delivery captures the wistful longing for the season to never end, making “Summertime” a timeless classic that remains a beloved favorite among listeners to this day.
5.”Good Times”
“Good Times” is an upbeat and lively song by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1964. The song features Cooke’s lively and energetic vocals set against a joyful arrangement of horns, piano, and drums. The lyrics describe the joy and excitement of being in love and having a good time with one’s sweetheart.
Cooke’s lively and charismatic delivery captures the carefree spirit of the song, making it an infectious and uplifting tune that has been a favorite among listeners for decades. “Good Times” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that evokes pure joy and happiness, making it a timeless classic that remains a beloved favorite to this day.
6. “Another Saturday Night”
“Another Saturday Night” is a classic R&B song by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1963. The song features Cooke’s smooth, soulful vocals set against a lively and infectious arrangement of horns, guitar, and drums. The lyrics describe the loneliness and boredom of spending another Saturday night alone, wishing for someone to spend time with.
Cooke’s emotive delivery captures the frustration and longing for companionship, while the song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy melody make it a fun and danceable tune. “Another Saturday Night” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that captures the universal experiences of love, heartbreak, and longing, making it a timeless classic that remains a favorite among listeners to this day.
7. “Cupid”
“Cupid” is a classic love song by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1961. The song features Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals set against a simple and elegant arrangement of guitar, bass, and drums. The lyrics describe the alluring and mischievous Cupid, who has the power to bring people together in love.
Cooke’s tender delivery captures the excitement and enchantment of falling in love, while the song’s catchy melody and harmonies make it a timeless classic that remains a favorite among listeners to this day. “Cupid” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that captures the essence of human emotion and experience, making it a beloved favorite among fans of classic soul and R&B music.
8. “(What A) Wonderful World”
“(What A) Wonderful World” is a classic soul ballad by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1960. The song features Cooke’s smooth and soulful vocals set against a gentle and elegant arrangement of piano, strings, and horns. The lyrics describe the beauty and wonder of the world, despite its challenges and sorrows.
Cooke’s emotive delivery captures the optimism and hopefulness of the song, making it a timeless classic that remains a beloved favorite among listeners to this day. “(What A) Wonderful World” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that inspires and uplifts, making it a cherished gem in the history of soul and R&B music.
9. “Shake”
“Shake” is a lively and upbeat song by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1965. The song features Cooke’s charismatic and energetic vocals set against a funky and rhythmic arrangement of horns, guitar, and drums. The lyrics describe the irresistible power of dance and movement, encouraging listeners to let loose and shake their bodies to the rhythm of the music.
Cooke’s dynamic delivery captures the infectious energy of the song, making it a fun and lively tune that has been a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music for decades. “Shake” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that gets people up and moving, making it a beloved classic that continues to inspire and delight listeners to this day.
10.”Having a Party”
“Having a Party” is a lively and joyful song by Sam Cooke, originally released in 1962. The song features Cooke’s soulful and energetic vocals set against a lively and upbeat arrangement of horns, piano, and drums. The lyrics describe the excitement and celebration of hosting a party with friends and loved ones, enjoying good food, drink, and music.
Cooke’s charismatic delivery captures the joyful and carefree spirit of the song, making it a fun and infectious tune that has been a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music for decades. “Having a Party” is a testament to Cooke’s ability to create music that captures the essence of happiness and togetherness, making it a beloved classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this day.
