Although the sun has set on the golden age of classic soul, the sprit of the music continues to live on with new tracks that embrace the tradition.

Every year, there are always great examples of very good new music.

In order, here are my 5 soulful 2009 favorites:

1. Beyonce' - "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)" - This could have been a Destiny's Child track. Simple rhythms, a fabulous hook, and a razor sharp contemporary message. It's brilliant pop music that grows on you.
   
   
2. Michael Jackson - "This Is It" - Somewhat ignored by radio, this track is delightful, reminding us that we've lost an amazing prodigy.
   
   
3. Mariah Carey - "I Want To Know What Love Is" - A talent takes a good song and makes it great. This Foreigner classic has been given a memorable dramatic reading as well as a breath of fresh air.
   
   
4. Lionel Richie - "Just Go" - He didn't write most of the songs this time around on his latest album, however , Lionel Richie maintains his mass appeal star power with this strong performance.
   
   
5. Whitney Houston - "I Look To You" - Last, but not least, two thumbs up for Whitney Houston, who has come back from despair to share her soul through this charming, but somewhat formulaic, new and appealing ballad.

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