A soul singer is an artist who performs soul music, a genre that originated in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. Soul music combines elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz, characterized by its emotive vocal style and strong backbeat. Notable soul singers include Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and Marvin Gaye, who have significantly influenced the genre. Soul singers often convey deep emotions through their performances, using techniques like call-and-response and improvisation. Their music typically addresses themes of love, struggle, and social issues, resonating with audiences on a personal level. The genre has also paved the way for various other styles, including R&B and hip-hop.