Five Essential Street Soul Records

There’s rightfully increasing global fascination, notably in Europe, with UK street soul. Characterized by its raw, minimalist sound, street soul blends vocals with hip-hop-favored drum machines and 1980s-style synthesizer riffs, these sounds often unnoticed by popular music media. I fell for the genre because of those sounds, the pairing of R&B with electronic elements, and the relatable lyrics that mirror real-life experiences. Drawn to its authentic portrayal of everyday life, I was captivated by its raw emotional depth. As proof of street soul’s universal appeal, I’ve curated five records from my collection that I believe anyone would enjoy—no matter their musical preferences. –Azzeddine

C. S. Lewis – Are You Leaving

1990 - Mellow Motion

“Are You Leaving,” a rare and mesmerizing street soul record from UK artist C.S. Lewis, is a testament to his exceptional talent. Released under the independent label Sounds of a City Records, it captures the early ‘90s street soul vibe with bright keys, hypnotic beats, and authentic vocals. The 5-minute musical journey transports listeners to the streets of a bygone era while remaining timeless.

Personal Funktion featuring Krys Williams – Just Me

199? – Prestige Productions

There isn’t much available information about this obscure record, which is believed to have been released in the early 1990sunder the independent label Prestige Productions. “Just a Little Bit” stands out as a genuinely street-soulful track, featuring airy synths, an exceptional bass line, and Krys Williams’ captivating vocals that keep you engaged from start to end of this ethereal track.

Rocky Winters – Wishing

PRT – Prestige Productions

This 7-inch release rep-resents the sole legacy of Rocky Winters, an elusive singer-songwriter thought to hail from England. Her velvety and soulful vocals work flawlessly with themasterful production of the incomparable Chas Jankel. Between the tracks on this release, my personal favorite is “Vicious Circle,” a warm, soulful composition brimming with sweet guitar riffs and lush synth elements, all infused with atouch of melancholy.

D’Breez – Touch

1993 – Raw Groov

Produced by musicians Darrell Fitton, David Bailey, and Wayne Edwards, who are believed to be from Manchester, England, “Touch (Mix 2)” stands out as a sophisticated and uplifting street soul music piece, with ethereal synthesizers floating in the air, sweet kicks, and strong vocals.

Fifth Of Heaven – I Need Your Love

1990 – Mix Out Records

Here we have a hidden gem from the band Fifth of Heaven, led by the late Denise Johnson, Andy Hickey, and Steven Williams. The group released a multitude of records under Mix Out Records.This particular track, crafted in the early days of UK Street Soul, showcases punchy drums, a delightful bass line, and commanding female vocals that combine to create a distinctly sensual atmosphere. Serving as a refined prototype, this record laid the groundwork for the exceptional music the group would produce in the years that followed.