Under the guidance of manager Vicki Wickham, the Bluebelles transformed into a cutting-edge trio named Labelle in the early 1970s. This marked a significant shift towards a raw, funk-infused sound, blending soul and gospel influences. The album Nightbirds in 1974 became their breakthrough moment, featuring the unforgettable single “Lady Marmalade.” This track soared to No. 1 on both Billboard’s pop and R&B charts, becoming one of the signature Patti LaBelle songs from her time with the group.
In 1977, Patti LaBelle embarked on her solo career, releasing her self-titled debut album. However, it was the gold-certified album I’m in Love Again from 1983 that catapulted her into mainstream prominence. The single “If Only You Knew” became her first No. 1 hit on the Billboard R&B chart, solidifying her status as a solo powerhouse and adding another classic to the list of essential Patti LaBelle songs.
The accolades continued with her platinum-certified 1986 album Winner in You, which garnered a pair of Grammy nominations. This album featured the emotionally resonant duet with Michael McDonald, “On My Own,” another chart-topping success that reached No. 1 on both the pop and R&B charts. These Patti LaBelle songs from the mid-80s showcased her evolving artistry and ability to connect with audiences across genres.
Venturing into the 1990s, LaBelle expanded her reach beyond music, taking on a recurring role as Dwayne Wayne’s mother on the popular sitcom A Different World from 1990 to 1993. Her musical achievements also continued to flourish. The 1991 album Burnin’ earned LaBelle her first Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female. Later in the decade, her 1998 album Live! One Night Only secured her a second Grammy, demonstrating her enduring appeal and live performance prowess. These Grammy-winning Patti LaBelle songs cemented her legacy as a top-tier vocalist.
Further solidifying her impact, Patti LaBelle was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2003. Demonstrating her artistic versatility, in 2017, LaBelle explored jazz with Bel Hommage, her first jazz album, which reached No. 2 on Billboard’s Traditional Jazz Albums chart. From her early hits with LaBelle to her celebrated solo work and explorations into jazz, Patti LaBelle’s songs represent a remarkable and ongoing contribution to music history, rightfully earning her the title “Godmother of Soul.”
