December 13, 2020 — This “Best of” list is my now third annual attempt to assemble the songs of the year that are both unforgettable and share the essential rhythmic, vocal and melodic elements that most would recognize as “soulful” if not as “soul” itself. Several have already been featured on this site as First Listens or in the Another Groove series, and all linger in your ear long after the music stops.
The tracks are in no particular order, nor could I even attempt to rank them, but the top three that I had on repeat all year were “Fade Away” by Lucky Daye, “Until I Met You” by Alina Baraz, and “Protection” by Kiana Lede.
Enjoy, and Happy Holidays!
By Robb Patryk