Violins are popular because they can produce a rich and intensive sound that can be controlled to strengthen the power of a song or can be played with a soft and subtle tone. In line with this, violins are always interlinked with songs associated with melodic rhythms and harmonies where you can feel the rich and soothing tone and a relaxing vibe as you draw your violin bow to the strings. You may be wondering what songs to play on your new violin or what genre to practice.
Here are 5 of the most popular songs in soul music that you can try:
Marvin Gaye - “How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You”
It is no doubt that violins are wonderful instruments to send a message. This is why many lovers use this as a medium to express their feelings and emotions. One of the most popular songs that does this perfectly is Marvin Gaye’s Motown Records classic “How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You.”
This song was originally performed using a piano and guitar but can be recreated through the violin for a sweeter and classic version. Several violinists have played this song by applying their versions and styles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XX7XGLWFJnk
Percy Sledge - “When A Man Loves A Woman”
Many of the most popular soul songs talk about love including “When A Man Loves A Woman” originally recorded by Percy Sledge and then later by Michael Bolton. The song discusses the wonderful things a man can do if he finds himself head over heels for a woman. In simpler terms, a man would do everything, literally everything, for the woman he loves.
This song was considered as one of the greatest songs ever written - leading to violinists giving it a try just like any other musician.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVdYf3t9r4c
Luther Vandross - “Never Too Much”
Though the chill vibes of “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross would not be mistaken as a love song, per se, in fact, it is. This post disco-era soul song, which was released in 1981, shows the deep longingness of one lover to another. With lyrics like “you are my guiding light...my love fantasy,” this track remains a staple on Urban radio and BBQ’s everywhere.
Check out the violin rendition of this song and get your body moving.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8z7ikD6gphM
Chaka Khan - “I’m Every Woman”
“I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan is an anthem for strong, independent women everywhere. This song, which was released in 1978, hit #1 on the Billboard US US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop and peaked at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 when Whitney Houston gave it a try, chanting “Chaka Khan” to pay tribute to the originator at the end of the song.
Hear the underrated violin version of this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb2aEztDNaA
Ben E. King - “Stand by Me”
Although Ben E. King did not want to record the classic “Stand by Me,” it peaked at #4 on the Billboard U.S. Hot 100 chart and #27 on the Billboard UK Singles Chart.
This classic soul music was covered at least 400 times by different artists, both popular and underrated. One well-liked version of this is by the Stringspace Orchestra.
Check it out below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0I4lt0G-7bQ
