When you think of musical royalty, Patti LaBelle’s name shines brightly among the stars. With a career spanning over six decades, the “Godmother of Soul” has graced the world with her powerhouse vocals, emotional depth, and unforgettable stage presence. From her days as the lead singer of Labelle to her illustrious solo career, Patti’s music has transcended genres, blending soul, R&B, gospel, and pop with effortless grace.

But what truly sets Patti apart is her ability to connect with audiences through songs that evoke passion, empowerment, and joy. Her soaring high notes, heartfelt ballads, and electrifying anthems have left an indelible mark on generations of music lovers. Whether you’re belting out “Lady Marmalade” in the car or swaying to the soulful strains of “If Only You Knew,” Patti’s music has a way of pulling at your heartstrings and making you feel alive.

In this article, we’ll celebrate the top 10 most popular Patti LaBelle songs of all time. Get ready to relive the magic, discover the stories behind the hits, and immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of a living legend. Let’s dive into the songs that made Patti LaBelle a true icon!

1. “Lady Marmalade” (1974)

Patti LaBelle and her group, LaBelle, broke new ground with the electrifying “Lady Marmalade” in 1974. This funky, soulful anthem quickly became an iconic staple of the disco era, thanks to its irresistible groove and provocative lyrics. Written by Bob Crewe and Kenny Nolan, the song tells the tale of a New Orleans courtesan, using the now-famous French phrase “Voulez-vous coucher avec moi (ce soir)?” to add a sense of mystery and allure.

From the moment the song’s signature opening riff begins, it’s impossible not to get drawn in. Patti LaBelle’s soaring vocals command attention, while Sarah Dash and Nona Hendryx provide a rich, dynamic harmony that gives the track its signature energy. The song’s playful blend of funk, R&B, and disco rhythms, combined with a brassy, horn-driven arrangement, made it a dance floor favorite.

“Lady Marmalade” was a game-changer for LaBelle, catapulting them to international fame. The song became their first and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, proving to be a defining moment in their career. Over the years, the track has remained a cultural touchstone, covered and reimagined by various artists—including the 2001 blockbuster collaboration featuring Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mýa, and Pink for the Moulin Rouge! soundtrack. Decades later, the original “Lady Marmalade” remains just as electrifying as ever, a timeless anthem of female empowerment, confidence, and unapologetic self-expression.

2. “On My Own” (1986)

Few songs capture the anguish of lost love as powerfully as “On My Own,” the stunning duet between Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald. Released in 1986 as part of Patti’s Winner in You album, the song quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the most iconic love songs of the decade. Written by songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, the song tells the heartbreaking story of a couple struggling to accept their separation, reflecting on what went wrong and what could have been.

The opening is quiet and sorrowful, with Patti’s voice exuding pain and vulnerability as she sings about facing life alone. Michael McDonald then joins in, his husky and soulful voice complementing Patti’s powerful delivery. As the song builds, their voices intertwine in an emotionally charged duet, brimming with regret and passion. The orchestral arrangement swells to a powerful climax, mirroring the emotional weight of the lyrics.

“On My Own” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the biggest hits of 1986. Its enduring appeal lies in the universal emotions it captures—the raw pain of heartbreak and the struggle to move on, themes that continue to resonate with listeners today.

3. “If Only You Knew” (1983)

Released in 1983 as part of her I’m in Love Again album, “If Only You Knew” is a passionate ballad that showcases Patti LaBelle’s extraordinary vocal talent. The song tells the story of a woman deeply in love but unsure if her feelings are reciprocated. Her longing and uncertainty are woven through the lyrics, making this one of the most emotionally charged performances of her career.

The song starts softly, with a delicate arrangement that allows Patti’s voice to take center stage. As the verses unfold, she delivers each line with a mix of tenderness and urgency, drawing listeners into the emotional weight of the song. The slow-burning build-up reaches a powerful climax in the final chorus, where Patti’s signature soaring vocals explode with raw emotion. Her ability to convey vulnerability, strength, and desperation all at once makes this track unforgettable.

“If Only You Knew” became one of Patti LaBelle’s biggest R&B hits, spending four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. Though it never crossed over to the pop charts at the time, the song has remained a classic, often cited as one of her most breathtaking vocal performances. Decades later, it continues to be a go-to song for vocalists looking to test their range and emotional depth.

4. “New Attitude” (1984)

A song about personal reinvention and self-confidence, “New Attitude” was a major turning point in Patti LaBelle’s career. Released in 1984 as part of the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack, the song introduced her to a new audience and became one of the defining tracks of the decade. With its infectious beat, uplifting lyrics, and energetic vocal performance, it perfectly captured the spirit of empowerment and independence.

From the moment the pulsating synth-driven beat kicks in, “New Attitude” exudes excitement. Patti’s vocals are bold and full of determination as she sings about embracing change and stepping into a stronger version of herself. The song’s message resonated deeply with audiences, making it an anthem for anyone going through a transformation in life.

The song marked a shift in Patti’s career, moving her further into mainstream pop and dance music. It became a top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and played a key role in the success of the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack. Over the years, it has been featured in various films and commercials, continuing to inspire listeners to embrace change with confidence and positivity.

5. “You Are My Friend” (1978)

One of the most heartfelt and personal songs in Patti LaBelle’s catalog, “You Are My Friend” is a deeply moving ballad that speaks to the power of love and friendship. Released in 1978 on her Tasty album, this song was written as a tribute to her late husband, Armstead Edwards, who co-wrote the song with her and their longtime collaborator James “Budd” Ellison.

Unlike many of her powerhouse ballads, “You Are My Friend” is tender and introspective, relying on its simple yet deeply emotional lyrics to connect with listeners. Patti’s delivery is full of warmth and sincerity, as if she’s personally speaking to each person who hears it. The gentle piano accompaniment and gospel-infused melody make it feel almost like a hymn, adding to its timeless and universal appeal.

Though not a massive chart hit at the time of its release, “You Are My Friend” has grown into one of Patti’s most cherished songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be played at weddings, memorials, and moments of deep personal reflection. The song’s message—that true friendship is a rare and beautiful gift—resonates across generations.

6. “Love, Need and Want You” (1983)

Few songs capture the essence of longing and devotion quite like Patti LaBelle’s 1983 R&B ballad, “Love, Need and Want You.” Released on her I’m in Love Again album, this sultry track became one of her signature love songs, thanks to its sensual groove and heartfelt lyrics.

From the opening notes, “Love, Need and Want You” sets a mood of deep yearning. The gentle rhythm and smooth instrumentation provide the perfect backdrop for Patti’s velvety voice to shine. Her delivery is both tender and passionate, pulling listeners into the emotions of someone completely wrapped up in love. The song’s chorus is simple yet powerful, repeating the title as Patti’s voice rises with intensity, creating an unforgettable moment of raw emotion.

Though a hit in its own right, the song gained renewed popularity decades later when it was sampled in Kelly Rowland’s 2002 hit “Dilemma,” featuring Nelly. This reintroduction to a new generation solidified its status as one of Patti’s timeless classics. Whether listened to in its original form or through modern interpretations, “Love, Need and Want You” remains a testament to Patti LaBelle’s ability to bring deep emotion into every note she sings.

7. “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” (1991)

Released in 1991 as part of her album Burnin’, “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” became one of Patti LaBelle’s biggest R&B hits. The song is a slow, sultry ballad filled with heartfelt emotion, showcasing the raw power of Patti’s legendary voice.

The lyrics convey a message of unconditional love and devotion, with Patti singing about giving herself completely to someone who has captured her heart. As the song builds, so does the intensity of her performance, culminating in soaring, gospel-infused vocals that elevate the song to another level. The blend of smooth R&B grooves and soul-stirring delivery made “Somebody Loves You Baby” an instant classic.

Peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard R&B chart, the song solidified Patti’s place as one of the genre’s most influential voices. It became a fan favorite and has remained a staple of her live performances for years. Even decades later, the song’s message of unconditional love and devotion continues to strike a deep emotional chord with audiences around the world.

8. “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” (1991)

Few songs capture the essence of gratitude and divine joy as beautifully as “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven).” Released in 1991 on her Burnin’ album, this gospel-infused ballad showcases Patti LaBelle’s spiritual depth and powerhouse vocals. The song is a moving testament to the blessings of love, faith, and life itself, wrapped in a melody that feels both uplifting and deeply personal.

Patti’s delivery is full of warmth and sincerity, making each lyric feel like a heartfelt testimony. The song’s arrangement starts gently, allowing the emotion to build gradually before exploding into a soaring climax filled with rich harmonies and Patti’s signature vocal runs. Her ability to transition between tender whispers and full-bodied, soul-stirring belts makes this track an unforgettable listening experience.

Though rooted in gospel influences, the song’s message of gratitude and joy extends beyond religious boundaries, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the overwhelming happiness of being truly blessed. Whether performed live or played in moments of reflection, “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” continues to uplift spirits and affirm Patti LaBelle’s place as not just an R&B legend but a deeply inspiring artist.

9. “Stir It Up” (1985)

With its infectious energy and funky groove, “Stir It Up” is one of Patti LaBelle’s most exhilarating tracks. Originally featured on the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack in 1985, the song perfectly captures the excitement and high-energy vibe of the era. Its pulsating rhythm, combined with Patti’s electric vocal performance, made it an instant favorite among fans of both R&B and pop.

From the very first beat, “Stir It Up” sets the stage for an exhilarating ride. The track is driven by a punchy bassline, energetic brass sections, and a catchy melody that’s impossible to resist. Patti’s voice is full of passion and power as she encourages listeners to embrace life with enthusiasm and confidence. Her ability to fuse R&B, funk, and dance elements creates a song that is not only infectious but also timeless.

“Stir It Up” gained widespread popularity thanks to its association with the blockbuster Beverly Hills Cop, bringing Patti LaBelle into the mainstream pop world. The song’s dynamic energy continues to make it a go-to anthem for feel-good moments, proving that Patti’s talent extends far beyond traditional ballads. Even today, “Stir It Up” remains a fan favorite and a staple in her live performances, bringing audiences to their feet with its unstoppable groove.

10. “The Right Kinda Lover” (1994)

By the time she released “The Right Kinda Lover” in 1994, Patti LaBelle had already established herself as an R&B legend. However, this track from her Gems album proved that she was more than capable of adapting to the contemporary R&B scene of the 1990s. With its modern production, confident lyrics, and infectious groove, the song showcased Patti’s ability to stay relevant while remaining true to her signature vocal power.

“The Right Kinda Lover” is a bold and sassy declaration of knowing one’s worth in a relationship. Patti delivers the lyrics with fiery conviction, making it clear that she won’t settle for anything less than what she deserves. The song’s catchy hook, supported by a smooth yet energetic beat, made it a standout track in her later career. It became a hit on the R&B charts, proving that Patti could effortlessly bridge the gap between old-school soul and the sleek, polished sound of 90s R&B.

Beyond its chart success, “The Right Kinda Lover” remains one of Patti’s most beloved upbeat songs. Its empowering message and danceable rhythm continue to make it a go-to track for anyone looking for a feel-good anthem. Whether blasting from car speakers or being performed live with Patti’s signature energy, this song is a testament to her timeless appeal and ability to keep evolving while staying true to her roots.