Best Motown Songs
On The Acoustic

Let's Stay Together is a 1972 album released by Al Green and this track as the lead song. The single was released ahead of the album in 1971 and topped the Billboard 100 Chart.

The song also hit #1 on Billboards R&B chart. At the end of 1972, the song claimed Billboards Year End chart title for best R&B song.

Seven Letters is a song by Ben E. King that was released as a single in 1965. While it didn't become as popular as some of his other hits, like "Stand by Me," it still did well on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song is also the title track of Ben E. King's 1965 album, "Seven Letters." This album features a collection of songs, and "Seven Letters" is one of the notable tracks. The lyrics of the song tell a story about receiving seven letters that bring both joy and heartache.

Even though there might not be a traditional music video for the song from that time, the recording showcases Ben E. King's soulful and expressive vocals. It's a piece of his musical legacy, offering a glimpse into the diverse sounds of soul and R&B during the mid-1960s.

This number I play in standard tuning with a root down up root up down up rhythm pattern or play a root down up bass up down up pattern. A bit of lead here with the chords G, D, D7, G7 and a C.

Spanish Harlem stands out as a significant hit for Ben E. King, marking his success as a solo artist after leaving The Drifters. Released in 1960, the song became his first hit as a solo performer. It climbed to #15 on the R&B chart and reached #10 on the Pop chart, showcasing its widespread appeal.

The track is the title song of King's 1960 album, "Spanish Harlem." Known for its romantic and vibrant melody, the song has enduring popularity. While music videos in the traditional sense were not as common in the early 1960s, "Spanish Harlem" was often performed on television shows, contributing to its recognition.

The song's unique blend of soulful vocals and a Latin-inspired musical arrangement has made it a classic, and its cultural impact has been celebrated over the years. "Spanish Harlem" remains a standout in Ben E. King's solo career and is cherished for its timeless charm and musical artistry.

Chords needed here are D, G and an A7 with a simple root down up root up down up rhythm pattern in standard tuning. Some lead required.

Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow holds a special place in music history, originally written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin and first recorded by The Shirelles in 1960. In 1962, Ben E. King included his rendition of the song on the album "Ben E. King Sings For Soulful Lovers."

Interestingly, King chose not to release his version as a single. The song is renowned for its poignant lyrics and emotional depth, exploring the uncertainties of love.

While a traditional music video may not exist for King's rendition due to the era's practices, the enduring popularity of "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" lies in its timeless and soulful interpretation by both The Shirelles and Ben E. King.

The track has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of love ballads.

Play this one in standard tuning and a capo 3rd fret with a root down up root up down up and repeat rhythm pattern. Some lead here with the chords D, Bm, G, A, Gb and a Gbm.

Ain't No Sunshine was a single by Bill Withers back in 1971 and hails from his album Just As I Am. Donald Duck Dunn from The Blues Brothers played bass and Stephen Stills played guitar. 

The song is one of Bill Withers' most well-known songs. The song features Withers' soulful vocals and a simple, yet memorable, arrangement. It became a major hit, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song is characterized by its repetitive chorus, where Withers laments the absence of his loved one with the iconic line, "I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know."

Just The Two Of Us hit the airwaves in 1981 and became a #2 hit in the US and was recorded with saxophonist Grover Washington Jr. It was released as a single from Washington's album "Winelight."

The song became a major hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Just the Two of Us" is a romantic ballad that celebrates love and togetherness. Withers' smooth vocals, combined with Washington's soulful saxophone playing, create a captivating and melodic duet. The song's popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a beloved classic.

The track can be found on the album Bill Wither's Greatest Hits.

Lean On Me is another classic by Bill Withers. It was released as a single from his second studio album, "Still Bill." The song became Withers' first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remains one of his most beloved and enduring compositions.

"Lean on Me" is an uplifting anthem that emphasizes the importance of support and friendship. Its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody have made it a popular choice for various occasions, including graduations and community events.

Lovely Day  is a feel-good song by Bill Withers, released as a single from his album "Menagerie." It showcases Withers' smooth vocals and positive energy. The song is known for its distinctive opening keyboard riff and the extended note Withers holds during the chorus.

Despite its initial chart performance being modest, "Lovely Day" has since become one of Withers' most celebrated songs and a staple of his discography. Its optimistic and joyful lyrics make it a popular choice for celebrations and uplifting playlists.

The song managed to hit #6 in the US and #7 in the UK.

Use Me is another popular song by Bill Withers. It was released as a single in 1972 from his album "Still Bill." The song achieved significant success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Withers' signature hits.

"Use Me" is a funky and groovy track that blends elements of soul, R&B, and rock. It features Withers' soulful vocals and a catchy guitar riff. The song's lyrics explore themes of manipulation and exploitation in relationships.

Withers sings from the perspective of someone who is aware that they are being used by their partner but is willing to tolerate it because they are infatuated or addicted to the relationship. The lyrics convey a complex mix of vulnerability, frustration, and desire.

Suddenly the song hails from the 1985 album of the same name from Billy Ocean.

This was a breakthrough album from Billy Ocean and he scored a #4 hit in both the US and UK.

At This Moment was recorded live by Billy Vera and his band in 1981 while performing at the Roxy in West Hollywood.

The initial release saw average response reaching #79, but later in 1987 it appeared on the TV Show Family Ties with Michael J Fox. After that, the song hit #1.

Could You Be Loved is a famous reggae song by Bob Marley and the Wailers from their final album, "Uprising," released on June 10, 1980. The song quickly became popular, reaching number five on the UK Singles Chart and making the top ten in Europe and New Zealand.

In the U.S., it peaked at number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, many artists, including Joe Cocker, UB40, and Lauryn Hill, have covered the song, helping to spread Marley's reggae style.

I play this in standard tuning with a shuffle with a steady down up down up rhythm pattern and no lead work required. The chords are C, Am, Dm, F, Em and G.

Is This Love is another a well-known song by Bob Marley and the Wailers, featured on their album "Kaya." Written solely by Marley, the song achieved significant international success.

It reached number five on the UK Singles Chart, number six in the Netherlands, and number eight in New Zealand, and also charted in countries like Belgium, France, and Sweden. In the U.S., it peaked at number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Over time, the song has been covered by various artists, including Joe Cocker in 1997 and UB40 in 2005. Lauryn Hill and Marcia Griffiths have also performed the song, honouring its reggae roots.

This song has a little lead work with the chords Gbm, D, A, Dbm, Bm and E in standard tuning and a capo 2nd fret. Use a down down up down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with some picking riffs throughout.

No Woman No Cry is one of Bob Marley's most famous songs, featured on the 1974 album "Natty Dread" with his band, the Wailers.

The song didn’t initially chart, but the live version from Marley's 1975 album "Live!" gained popularity, reaching number 22 on the UK Singles Chart, and later peaking at number 8 after Marley's death in 1981.

"No Woman, No Cry" reflects Marley's life in Trenchtown, mentioning the "government yard" where he grew up. This iconic Jamaican song has left a lasting impact, ranking number 37 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2004.

The chords here are C, G6, Am, F and G with a few riffs in the rhythm and in standard tuning. A down down down up down up rhythm pattern will work here.

Three Little Birds has become one of Bob Marley's most beloved songs, featured on the 1977 album "Exodus" and released as a single in 1980.

The song reached number 17 on the UK charts and number 20 on the Dutch Top 40, though it didn't make a significant impact in the U.S. at first. However, over time, it has become a well-known anthem of hope and reassurance.

The song has been covered by various artists, including Connie Talbot, Billy Ocean, and Marley's son Ziggy Marley. It was also featured in the animated movie "Sing" (2016), where it was sung by Matthew McConaughey's character, Buster Moon.

Original key is a capo 2nd fret in standard tuning and simple down strokes for the rhythm pattern. Some lead with with the chords G, C and D.

Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City was first recorded by Bobby Bland in 1974 for his album Dreamer. It reached #9 on the US Soul Chart.

Whitesnake also covered this song in 1978.

Lido Shuffle is one of the standout tracks from Boz Scaggs' 1976 album, "Silk Degrees," which played a pivotal role in catapulting him to stardom. The song's infectious rhythm and soulful energy made it an instant classic.

The track made its mark on the music charts, reaching its peak at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1977. Its widespread popularity and airplay solidified its status as one of the signature tracks of the late 1970s.

The song's title refers to Lido Island, a man-made island in Newport Beach, California. Boz said the idea for the song came from the Fats Domino song The Fat Man.

The chords for this song are F, G, C, D, A#, D#, Bm and a Dsus in standard tuning with no lead work required.I'm playing a down up down up rhythm pattern with some shuffle strumming here and there.

Look What You've Done To Me is a timeless ballad featured on the "Urban Cowboy" soundtrack, released in 1980. The song was a pivotal moment in Boz Scaggs' career, showcasing his versatility as an artist by delivering a poignant love song.

The song "Look What You've Done to Me" achieved significant success on the music charts, reaching No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980.

Boz Scaggs co-wrote "Look What You've Done to Me" with David Foster, a celebrated musician, composer, and producer.

I play this one in standard tuning with a down down up down up down up down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with no lead work. The chords you'll need here are Em, Am, Cmaj7, Bm, Gm, Dm, G, D7, C and an Adim.

Lowdown is one of the standout tracks from Boz Scaggs' iconic 1976 album, "Silk Degrees." This funk and R&B-infused hit is renowned for its infectious groove and soulful vibe, which played a significant role in defining Scaggs' musical legacy.

The song proved to be a chart-topping success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1977.

"Lowdown" was co-written by Boz Scaggs and TOTO drummer Jeff Porcaro, who later co-founded the renowned band Toto.

No lead here but a few riffs as you play through the chords Em, A7, Dmaj,7, Dmaj7/Db, Cmaj7, B7 and Gbm. For rhythm I'm playing a down down up down shuffle rhythm.

We're All Alone is a timeless ballad featured on Boz Scaggs' 1976 album, "Silk Degrees." This soulful and emotionally charged song showcases Scaggs' ability to convey deep feelings through his music, making it a poignant addition to his repertoire.

This track resonated with audiences and found its way to the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 28 in 1977.

It was recorded by Frankie Valli in 1976 who had a hit with it as did Rita Coolidge the following year. This was a B-side for the Boz Scaggs single Lido Shuffle.

I use a capo 3rd fret here in standard tuning with a root root down up down up rhythm pattern in standard tuning with some lead work. The chords you'll need are G, Am7, G6, VB7, G7, C, D, Bm, Em, Dsus, Am/A# and an F.

Midnight Train To Georgia of course is an old Glady's Night And The Pips song from 1973. Edsilia Rombley, a Dutch artist, put this track on her live albums called from 2020 called Live In Het Concertgebouw.

The album has 13 tracks on it but I don't believe she ever released this version as a single.

Rock Your Baby was a debut single for George McCrea and was a huge international hit, reaching #1 in the US and the UK and is one of only 40 songs to sell over 10 million copies.

The song hails from the album of the same name.

Talk It Over is a track from Grayson Hugh's 1988 Blind To Reason album.

The song reached #3 in NZ, #4 in Australia and #19 in the US.

I Feel Good or as it's officially called I Got You I Feel Good, was released in 1965 from the 1965 album Out Of Sight.

The song hit #1 on the R&B charts and #3 on Billboard. It has become his signature song down through the decades.

It's A Mans Mans Mans World was another #1 R&B hit for James Brown in 1966.

The song hails from the album Soul On Top.

Try Me was released by James Brown And The Flames in 1958 from the album Please Please Please. They scored their first #1 R&B hit with thie release.

The song was actually re-released again later in 1965 and hit #43 on the charts.

The Harder They Come is a song from Jimmy Cliff with a reggae feel. In 1972 the song was recorded for the movie of the same name.

Cliff wrote the melody and lyrics after he agreed to take the lead role of a musician who tuned to crime. Madness, Rockers Revenge and Joe Jackson have all covered this number.

What Becomes of the Brokenhearted was a big hit song for Jimmy Ruffin back in 1966. It did really well on the music charts, reaching the top 10 in both the United States and R&B charts. The song was on Jimmy's first album, which was also called "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted."

People loved the song because it had meaningful lyrics and Jimmy's powerful voice. Since then, many other singers have covered the song, showing how much it's still loved today. Overall, "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" is one of Jimmy Ruffin's most famous songs, and it's had a big impact on music over the years.

If You Wanna Be Happy was a spinoff from a song dating back to 1934 called Ugly Woman. Jimmy Soul recorded his version in 1963 and scored a #1 on the Hot 100 and the R&B charts.

The song hails from the album of the same name.

Celebration was a huge hit for Kool And The Gang reaching #1 in several countries when it was released in 1980.

It was their only single to top Billboards Hot 100 and can be found on the album Celebrate.

Cherish was a #1 in both the US and Canada back in 1985 and was the bands last #1 hit song.

The track hails from their album Emergency.

Fresh is a Kool And The Gang song fro their 1984 album Emergency.

This one was a #1 hit in both the US and Canada and hit #11 in the UK.

Deep River Woman was written by Lionel Richie and recorded with country group Alabama back in 1987. The song was released in 1986 as a single from Richie's album "Dancing on the Ceiling." It combines Richie's smooth vocals with Alabama's harmonies to create a beautiful blend of pop and country.

"Deep River Woman" showcases heartfelt lyrics and a soothing melody, paying tribute to the strength and allure of a mysterious woman. The song became a top 10 hit on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot Country Songs chart.

Easy was originally recorded by the Commodores in 1977 and is one of Lionel Richie's most beloved songs. It was also included on his self-titled debut solo album in 1982. "Easy" is a soulful and mellow ballad that showcases Richie's smooth and tender vocals.

The song's gentle melody and introspective lyrics reflect on the simplicity and comfort of a laid-back love. "Easy" became a massive hit, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a signature song for Richie.

It was one of two singles (Brick House the other) released from the 1977 album Commodores.

The song went to #1 on the US R&B chart.

Hello was released in 1984 as a single from Lionel Richie's album "Can't Slow Down" and is one of his most iconic songs. The power ballad is known for its memorable piano intro and heartfelt lyrics.

"Hello" showcases Richie's emotional delivery and his ability to convey vulnerability and longing. The song became a global sensation, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its timeless appeal.

It was one of 5 singles from Lionel Richie's 1983 album and reached #1 in the US, Austria, The Netherlands and The UK and hitting #2 in Germany.

Long Long Way to Go is not actually a song written by Lionel Richie but instead it's a Def Leppard song.

But in 2004 Richie recorded his version for the album Just For You and was released as the 2nd single from the album.

The song reflects on the challenges and obstacles faced in life and relationships. It features Richie's smooth vocals and a melodic blend of pop and R&B elements. "Long Long Way To Go" highlights Richie's ability to deliver emotive performances while incorporating contemporary production styles. It reached the top 20 on the US Contemporary chart.

Stuck On You  is a romantic ballad released in 1984 from Lionel Richie's album "Can't Slow Down." The song showcases Richie's warm and tender vocals alongside a soft rock-inspired arrangement.

"Stuck on You" became a major hit, reaching the top three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's timeless lyrics express an enduring love that transcends any obstacles.

The song was a #1 on the US Contemporary chart  and reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Fine Brown Frame appeared on Lou's 1989 album At Last. The song was performed as a duet with Dianne Reeves.

The song was never released as a single.

Dance With My Father was a single from the album of the same name from 2003.

The song was co-written with Richard Marx and won song of the years and best male R&B award at the 2004 Grammy's.

Midnight At The Oasis was a 1973 single from Maria Muldaur when she released her debut album.

The song reached #2 in Canada, #6 in the US and #21 in the UK. The song and album were nominated for song and album of the year at the 1975 Grammy's.

A Woman Needs Love is a 1981 album and the last from the group Raydio, led by Ray Parker Jr.

The song reached #4 on the Pop charts and #1 on the R&B chart in the US. The song was also a top 10 in Canada and The Netherlands.

Right Next Door is a single from blues artist Robert Crea off of his 1986 album Strong Persuader.

The song reached #27 in the US, #50 in the UK as a single release.

I play this one in standard tuning with a capo 3rd fret for the original key. Use a down down up down up down down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with some lead and  and the chords A7sus4, Am, C, D, F, G and an E7.

Too Late To Turn Back Now was a 1972 single release by The Cornelius Brothers And Sister Rose. The song reached #2 on the R&B kept out of #1 by Lean On Me by Bill Withers. The song also reached #5 on Billboard.

The song is from the album Cornelius Brothers And Sister Rose.

Save The Last Dance For Me is a 1960 hit from The Drifters from their album of the same name. Ben E King was the lead vocalist.

The song was #1 in several countries. The song was also recorded by Michael Buble, Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris. 

One Less Bell To Answer was written for jazz singer Keely Smith in 1967. But in 1969 producer Bones Howe came across the tune and wanted The 5th Dimension to record the song as part of their 1970 debut album.

They recorded it, released it and peaked at #2 behind My Sweet Lord by George Harrison.

Heart Of My Heart was written way back in 1926 but the song wasn't popularized until 1953 when The Four Aces had a hit with their version.

The song appears on he album Top Ten Hits Of The Four Aces. 

Bernadette is an older song from 1967 from The Four Tops and hit #4 on Billboard and #3 on the R&B charts.

The song is from the album Reach Out.

Going Loco Down In Acapulco or a.k.a. Loco In Acapulco is from the 1988 album Indestructable.

The highest ranking was in the UK at #7.

It's The Same Old Song was released as a single back in 1965 by The Four Tops made it to #2 on the R&B chart.

This song became their signature song and hails from their album Four Tops Second Album.

I Found Someone Of My Own was the lead single from the 1971 album of the same name from the group The Free Movement. This was the groups only album and this song hit #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

I play this one with a bit of a muted shuffle playing a down down down down up down up down up and a few down strokes as you head into the chorus. Played in standard tuning and no lead work. For chords you'll need a C, D, Dmaj7, B7, Em, A7, Db7, Gbm and an E.

We'll Meet Again was a 1939 song from British singer Vera Lynn. The Ink Spots recorded a version I believe sometime in the 1940's.

The song appears on The Ink Spots Anthology album from 1998 which contains 48 songs.

Back Stabbers the song managed to reach #1 for The O'Jay's on the Hot Soul Singles chart back in 1972 and then climbed to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song hails from the album of the same name.

It's A Shame was released in 1970 by The Spinners. Stevie Wonder helped write the song with two other writers. The Spinners had their first hit with this song in more than a decade, reaching #3 on the R&B chart and #14 on Billboard. The track can be found on the album 2nd Time Around.

Get Ready was a #1 hit when it hit the airwaves from The Temptations back in 1066.

You'll find this track on their album Gettin' Ready.

Play this one in standard tuning, no lead required with the chords  D, G, F, A#, Gm, C and A with a down up down up up down up and repeat rhythm pattern.

I Wish It Would Rain is an emotionally resonant song by The Temptations from their 1968 album, "The Temptations Wish It Would Rain." The song was written by Motown's prolific songwriting trio 'The Clan,' composed of Norman Whitfield, Barrett Strong, and Roger Penzabene.

The song was released as a single by Motown Records' Gordy label on December 21, 1967. Strongly charting in the United States, the track reached number 1 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

I play a down down up down up down - down up down up down up and repeat pattern in standard tuning and with some lead. The chords here are G, C and D.

My Lady Soul was recorded by The Temptations  in 1966. This soulful track can be found on their album "Gettin' Ready," released in the same year.

Unfortunately, "My Lady Soul" did not chart as a single, but it remains a hidden gem in the Temptations' catalog.

This song, like many others by The Temptations, continues to be appreciated by fans of classic Motown music for its timeless sound and the group's signature style.

The chords here are C, Am, F and a G with no lead and played in standard tuning. Play a down down up down down down - up up up down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern.

My Girl is an iconic classic song recorded by The Temptations and was included in their 1965 album titled "The Temptations Sing Smokey." The song was written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White, both were members of another legendary Motown group, The Miracles.

The single was released on December 21, 1964 by Motown Records' Gordy label and it is considered one of the Temptations' signature songs.

During the time of its release, it won tremendous appreciation and popularity, becoming the Temptations' first U.S. number-one single on March 6, 1965. It also charted on the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number 43.


I play a capo 4th feet here in standard tuning with the chords C, F, Dm, G, Cmaj7, Em, A7, D, G and Dmaj7 with some lead and a down down up down down down up repeat rhythm pattern.

Hi Heel Sneakers was a 1964 hit for Tommy Tucker in the US and the UK.

He released an album shortly after with the same name.