20 More Great Songs All About Men!

Reading Time: 27 min read

20 More Great Songs All About Men! features songs by beabadoobee, Jonny McGovern, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, and Nelly Furtado.

Ladies and gentlemen, once again, we proudly present a playlist that’s focused on – drum 🥁 roll please – M-E-N, MEN 😍!!! HELL to the YASSS, folks, 20 More Great Songs All About Men! focuses on those muscular, ripped, handsome, totally hot humans 🤤! To be fair, despite the objectifying characterization, there are no specifics about the men profiled – we were just being thirsty! And, if you keep up with The Musical Hype regularly, you’ll know that we… I… plagiarized much of this introductory paragraph from 20 Great Songs All About Men! (2022). 20 More Great Songs All About Men! is the sequel.

20 More Great Songs All About Men! … features songs by beabadoobee, Jonny McGovern, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, and Nelly Furtado. There is something for everybody stylistically on this colorful musical compendium. Not only are all men welcome, but women, you’re welcome, too! So, without further ado, let’s dive into 20 More Great Songs All About Men!!!

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1. Kendrick Lamar, “man at the garden”	2. Lady Gaga, “Shadow of A Man”	3. Jonny McGovern, “Man Areas”	4. Christina Aguilera, “Ain’t No Other Man”
5. beabadoobee, “Real Man”	6. Ryland James, “You’re Still My Man” – Whitney Houston cover	7. Nelly Furtado, “Maneater”	8. Michael Jackson, “Man in the Mirror”
9. Heather Headley, “All The Man That I Need” – Whitney Houston cover	10. Morgan Wallen, “Man Made a Bar” (Ft. Eric Church)	11. DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD, “men”	12. Whitney Houston, “You’re Still My Man”
13. Man 2 Man, “Male Stripper”	14. Dusty Springfield, “Son of a Preacher Man”	15. Garland Green, “Jealous Kind Of Fella”	16. Billie Eilish, “Male Fantasy”
17. Patrick Cowley, “Menergy”	18. The Spinners, “The Rubberband Man”	19. David Ruffin, “Common Man”	20. Jerry Butler, “Hey, Western Union Man”

1. Kendrick Lamar, “man at the garden”

GNX » pgLang / Interscope » 2024

“I deserve it all.” Kendrick Lamar repeats this lyric throughout “man at the garden,” the fourth track from his 2024 album, GNX. Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, M-Tech, Craig Balmoris, and Tyler Reese produced this stellar track, which features a distinct, sickening beat. It is one of the best beats to grace GNX. The minimalist, reflective sound is part of the charm. As always, our Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper delivers a captivating cadence and flow. His bars are golden, transcending the simple, often-repeated phrase. “Everything Heaven allowed us, bitch / I deserve it all,” Lamar asserts in verse one, showcasing one of many instances Biblical and spiritual references are incorporated. In the second verse, he incorporates prayer: “Pray for those who prayed against me.” Amen…

Notably, there are three verses, each of which has its fair share of memorable moments. “‘Cause my intentions was pure / Even when you wasn’t sure,” he spits in the second verse, adding, “Even with every allure / How much temptation you endured?” In a wise moment, K-Dot informs us, “I see you as a human first / Even when you didn’t understand your worth.” Powerful! The third and final verse is far more profane. “Keep these bitch niggas away from me / Keep all my blessings faithfully,” he bites, adding, “Keep my essence contagious, that’s okay with me / I burn this bitch down, don’t you play with me or stay with me.” One more pointed lyrics catches the ear, though not virgin ears: “Tell me why you think you deserve the greatest of all time, motherfucker.” Can Kendrick Lamar do no wrong? Of course he can’t! “Man at the garden” is another ‘W’ for one of the best rappers to ever do it.

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2. Lady Gaga, “Shadow Of A Man”

MAYHEM » Interscope » 2025

“Standing in the shadows of another man / Lonely as the streets pass me by (Oh, oh),” Lady Gaga sings in the first verse of “Shadow Of A Man”, the 11^th track on her 2025 album, MAYHEM. She continues singing, “Life ain’t under pressure ‘cause I got a plan / Starin’ at myself in the eye (Oh, oh-oh).” Women, rise and be empowered! You don’t need to stand in the shadows of a man, woo! Lady Gaga co-wrote and produced this fabulous song with watt and Cirkut. Early on, the shadow is emphasized, with a few extra syllables (“Sha-da-do, sha-da-do-ow”). The intro reappears as the post-chorus.

Lady Gaga keeps the form of “Shadow Of A Man” traditional with just a few wrinkles: intro, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, post-chorus, bridge, chorus, and post-chorus. The Academy and Grammy Award-winning musician emphasizes the difficulty women have in the music business and life because they find themselves standing in the shadows of men. In the second verse, she memorably asserts, “Hard to be the yellow in a purple sky (Sky) / Peekin’ through the eye of the storm.” That is a marvelous way to put it. In the pre-chorus, she states, “Now I got this feelin’ / I can’t get enough / ‘Cause I won’t be used for my love and left out to cry.” Right on, Lady Gaga! The centerpiece is the chorus.

“I don’t wanna fade into the darkness tonight

Show me the light

I don’t wanna be the one to fall on the knife

To come alive

I’m about to be there, I’m about to be there

Watch me, I swear

I’ll dance in the shadow of a man.”

By dancing in the shadow of a man, our dear Lady feels free – liberated! Later, on the bridge, she sings, “Can’t ignore the voice within / And a woman can’t lose, but you still pretend.” Word. Lady Gaga brings the high-energy vocals, as always. Furthermore, she’s backed by a mean backdrop: sleek synths, an electrifying beat, and a robust bass line. I can be hard for a woman in male-dominated spaces, but women don’t have to settle for just anything, and they certainly should not be in the shadow of a man. “Shadow Of A Man” is another bop from Lady Gaga – a thought-provoking one!

Appears in:

Lady Gaga, Shadow Of A Man: Bangerz N Bopz 🔥 No. 46 (2025)

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3. Jonny McGovern, “Man Areas”

The Gayest Of All Time » gaypimp » 2012

“This shit right here? / This ain’t no regular club jam,” Jonny McGovern asserts in the intro of “Man Areas”, the fourth track from his 2012 album, The Gayest Of All Time. That would be an incredibly accurate statement. He continues, “This a faggoty-ass club jam / So get your motherfuckin’ hands up!” Yes, “Man Areas” is gay, gay, gay, which fits the billing of The Gayest Of All Time – DUH! McGovern is blunt throughout “Man Areas,” which is a huge part of its charm.

“I like your man areas,” McGovern sings in the chorus, adding, “You know I like-like-like / To lick-lick-lick your man areas.” Use your imagination regarding what Jonny enjoys licking. “Put some shades on my eyes / ‘Fore I lick between your thighs / I’m a pretty big fag / With a whole lotta swag,” he sings in verse one. We did not doubt McGovern’s degree of gayness. But, if there was doubt about his gay card… “Kissin’ on the bar / While I grab your junk / You’re such a fuckin’ hunk / And you’re so fuckin’ drunk,” he sings in the second verse, continuing, “Come on, don’t be a punk / Just gimme your spunk / Lemme in your pants / So I can spill all.” There are many other instances of innuendo and unapologetic pleasure, whether it’s “All the strippers on the junk / And you know they like to fuck,” or “Like him with his tats / And the muscles on his back / And the way he makes it jack.” Jack, huh? “Man Areas” is outlandish, but, the sex positivity by one horny Jonny McGovern is through the roof. NSFW, folks!

Appears in:

Jonny McGovern, Man Areas: Beaming with Pride 🏳️‍🌈 No. 45 (2025)

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4. Christina Aguilera, “Ain’t No Other Man”

Back To Basics » Sony Music Entertainment » 2006

“I told my mother, my brother / My sister, and my friends / Told the others (Others), my lovers (Lovers) / Both past and present tense (Alright) / That every time I see you, everything starts making sense.” Ooh-wee! Let the church say, YAAS! “Ain’t No Other Man” is the crown jewel of Back To Basics, the 2006 multiplatinum, fifth studio album by five-time, Grammy-winning pop artist, Christina Aguilera. “Ain’t No Other Man” was one of the five Grammys Aguilera received during her career (Best Female Pop Vocal Performance). The multiplatinum single peaked at no. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The primary reason “Ain’t No Other Man” is a bop is the high-flying, gritty vocals by Aguilera. That girl sang her ass off on this one. Sure, Christina has been criticized for over-singing a time or two, but the old-school, neo-soul/vintage pop vibes of “Ain’t No Other Man” (and Back To Basics) are tailor-made for powerhouse pipes. The production by DJ Premier is the sugar honey iced tea, embracing vintage sounds and sampling “The Cissy Thang” by The Soul Seven. The songwriting marks another selling point, with Aguilera and DJ Premier writing alongside Kara DioGuardi, Charles Martin Roane, and Harold Beatty. Christina brings fierceness with her pitch-perfect delivery as well as her personality. “Somethin’ moved me deep inside, yeah / I don’t know what you did, boy, but you had it / And I’ve been hooked ever since.” Oh, snap! The second verse as well as the bridge are electric, but the centerpiece is the chorus. This section alone secured the Grammy for Aguilera:

“Ain’t no other man can stand up next to

Ain’t no other man on the planet does what you do

You’re the kind of guy a girl finds in a blue moon

You got soul, you got class

You got style, you’re badass

Ain’t no other man it’s true

Ain’t no other man but you.”

“Ain’t No Other Man” is one of the best songs in the Christina Aguilera catalog. It is also among the best songs of the 2000s. It’s a BOP-and-a-half!

Appears in:

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5. beabadoobee, “Real Man”

This Is How Tomorrow Moves » Dirty Hit » 2024

“I told my mother / What you did / Like a kid.” Uh-oh! Beabadoobee (Beatrice Ilejay Laus) is not pleased with her significant other. She wants him to act and be a real man. “Real Man” is the fourth track and fifth single from her 2024 album, This Is How Tomorrow Moves. “Real Man” features guitar accompaniment initially. The production grows in instrumentation and digs in more as the song progresses. Beabadoobee composed the song while Rick Rubin and Jacob Bugden produced it. Bea= sings with great sincerity. Of course, she does – her man lacks man skills and she’s expressing her misgivings! “Walkin’ as the mornin’ beckoned / You said you’ll be a second,” Bea sings in the second verse, continuing, “Locked the door, yeah, you should have mentioned / Guess I should expect it / I’m out here blue / What to do?” Man, do better! By the outro, she states her needs: “Would you hold it down and take it if I gave you a chance? / Need the reassurance, baby, not a silly romance.” She wants a mature relationship and nothing less. If he is going to ride with her, he needs to be a – wait for it – man!

The most memorable section of “Real Man” should come as no surprise – the chorus:

“And I already told you I just wanted to dance

Could you see me standing out here with my outstretched hands

I guess no one ever taught you how to be a real man.”

The question is, can this nameless, immature man be saved? After all, he wasn’t taught how to be a real man. Hot mess!

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6. Ryland James, “You’re Still My Man” – Whitney Houston cover

“You’re Still My Man” » 21 Entertainment Group » 2024

“You’re still my man / Nothing can change it / We still belong together.” Canadian musician Ryland James is filled with dedication on “You’re Still My Man”. However, he wasn’t the first to sing those ‘tethered’ lyrics (despite the end of a relationship, mind you). Whitney Houston originally sang “You’re Still My Man” on her 1987 tour de force, Whitney. Covering a Whitney song takes big vocals and a lot of courage. James, who has a commanding instrument, has no issue with tackling this rarely covered song from a male perspective: he identifies as queer.

James makes “You’re Still My Man” his own, with more of a ‘pop-leaning’ sound. He sings radiantly, showing off his distinct, expressive, and nuanced pipes. The falsetto notes he hits are glorious. He is accompanied by piano initially as he laments the union with his man. “And the feelings between us / Will never disappear,” he sings in the first verse, continuing, “How can you be far away / When you’re spirit’s here?” In the second verse, he’s certain “soon you’ll be missing me,” adding “There’s a magic we share together / And no one can break that spell.” As the song progresses, the accompaniment expands including strings, bass, and drums. The most powerful section of the song is the outro, where Ryland shows how dynamic and powerful he is as a vocalist. The ad-libs and riffs are on point. He navigates the key changes soundly, one of the harder aspects of this big, big song. Covering Whitney Houston is no easy task, but Ryland James does a fabulous job with “You’re Still My Man”.

Appears in:

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7. Nelly Furtado, “Maneater”

Loose » Geffen » 2006

“Everybody look at me, me / I walk in the door, you start screaming.” Oh, snap, Nelly Furtado! The Grammy-winning pop musician dropped a surefire, man-related bop with “Maneater”. “Come on, everybody, what you here for?” she continues singing in the first verse, adding, “Move your body around like a nympho.” Like a nympho, Nelly? Oh, my! “Maneater” is the second track from Furtado’s multiplatinum third studio album, Loose. One of many successful tracks from Loose, “Maneater” peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Furthermore, it was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Furtado co-wrote “Maneater” with Timbaland, Danja, and Jim Beanz. Timbaland and Danja produced it.

With Timbo and Danja behind the boards, the production and sound of “Maneater” is sleek to the nth degree. The drum groove and the synths are ear-catching and still sound fresh 20 years later. Nelly Furtado is the star of the show, bringing ample attitude and personality. In the second verse of the man, she sings, “You doin’ anything to keep her by your side / Because, she said she love you, love you long time.” Sex is a big deal, particularly when it comes to men. Of course, the centerpiece that sums up the happenings of “Maneater” is the chorus:

“Maneater, make you work hard

Make you spend hard, make you want all of her love

She’s a maneater, make you buy cars

Make you cut cards, make you fall real hard in love.”

Word. On the outro of the infectious “Maneater”, Nelly Furtado utters a big, regretful statement: “You wish you’d never ever met her at all.” Damn!

Appears in:

Nelly Furtado, Maneater: Bangerz N Bopz 🔥 No. 47 (2025)

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8. Michael Jackson, “Man in the Mirror”

Bad » MJJ Productions Inc. » 1987

“I’m gonna make a change for once in my life / It’s gonna feel real good / Gonna make a difference, gonna make it right.” Those iconic lyrics hail from one of Michael Jackson’s best and most beloved songs, “Man in the Mirror”. “Man in the Mirror” is the seventh track from Jackson’s second iconic ‘80s album, Bad, released in 1987. One of the reasons it stands out is that Michael Jackson did not write or co-write it. This was a rare MJ song written by others. Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett composed it. Jackson and Quincy Jones (1933 – 2024) produced it. “Man in the Mirror” spent two weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Adding to the accolades, “Man” was nominated for the Grammy for Record of the Year at the 31^st Annual GRAMMY Awards (Bobby McFerrin won for “Don’t Worry Be Happy”).

After hearing a demo of the song, it was no surprise that Michael Jackson had to approve “Man in the Mirror.” This is the ultimate deep, introspective, socially conscious, and thought-provoking record. In the first verse, Jackson continues, “I see the kids in the street with not enough to eat / Who am I to be blind, pretending not to see their needs.” In the second verse, he asserts, “I’ve been a victim of a selfish kinda love / It’s time to realize / There are some with no home / Not a nickel to loan.” Given all these happenings, Jackson decides, “That’s why I’m starting with me.” What does he do? He delivers one of the greatest choruses of all time – the crème de la crème:

“I’m starting with the man in the mirror

I’m asking him to change his ways

And no message could have been any clearer

If you wanna make the world a better place

Take a look at yourself and then make a change

Na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na.”

Throughout “Man in the Mirror,” Jackson offers up prodigious vocals. He shows incredible control during the verses, while delivering sensational expression and nuance. He ups the ante during the chorus, where he sings more dynamically. Beyond his compelling lead vocals, Jackson is supported by an anointed choir, arranged by the late, great Andraé Crouch (1942 – 2015). Among the background vocalists are Crouch, Sandra Crouch (1942 – 2024), Garrett, and the Winans. Beyond epic songwriting and top-notch vocals, the sound, arrangement, and production are flawless. “Man in the Mirror” is a masterclass in a crossover sound, seamlessly fitting somewhere between pop, rock, and R&B, while bringing big-time, inspirational vibes (“I’ve gotta get that man, that man (Man in the mirror) / You’ve got to, you got to move, shamone, shamone”). #Classic!

Appears in:

Michael Jackson, Man in the Mirror: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 No. 92 (2025)

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9. Heather Headley, “All The Man That I Need” – Whitney Houston cover

Broadway My Way » in:ciite » 2018

“He fills me up, he gives me love / More love than I’ve ever seen.” “All The Man That I Need” is a timeless R&B classic popularized by Whitney Houston. Many other artists have covered this song, originally released by Linda Clifford. In 2018, R&B/gospel singer and actress Heather Headley recorded her superb rendition of “All The Man That I Need”. It is the sixth track from her 2018 covers album, Broadway My Way.

Headley is supported by warm, adult contemporary production. Among the instrumentation are the rhythm section and strings. The tempo is slow and relaxed. As Headley sings, she is never in a hurry, keeping things cool, calm, and collected throughout. She never forces things and sings with a gorgeous tone. A key difference compared to the definitive version (Houston’s) is no background vocals. The biggest moments lack the added depth of a choir, but Headley compensates with her pitch-perfect vocal riffs and runs. One of her most impressive runs finds her ascending into her ripe upper register, signaling a mean-sounding electric guitar solo. There is an awesome key change where Headley ‘goes to town’ with jazzy nuances. Covering Whitney Houston is an elephantine task, but Heather Headley makes “All The Man That I Need” hers and does a ‘bang up’ job.

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10. Morgan Wallen, “Man Made a Bar” (Ft. Eric Church)

One Thing At A Time » Big Loud » 2023

“I sat down on a barstool, like a dern fool / ‘Cause she walked out again.” Drowning those sorrows, Morgan Wallen! The Grammy-nominated country singer loves a bar. How do we know? He’s sung many bar-related songs like “This Bar” or “Your Bartender”. Both songs hailed from Dangerous: The Double Album. On his 2023 album, One Thing At A Time, Wallen informed us that “Man Made a Bar”. Word. Helping him to articulate this point he tapped fellow country artist Eric Church for the assist. The fourth track from One Thing At Time was written by Rocky Block, Jordan Dozzi, Larry Fleet, and Brett Tyler. Joey Moi produced it.

The bartender relates to Wallen’s situation. In the first verse, he tells him, the bar “‘Got me over my first wife’,” insinuating this situation is “a story old as time.” From there, “Man Made a Bar” gets Biblical think Genesis, in the chorus. The scripture ‘takes some liberties’:

“… God made a man, and man got lonely

He said, ‘Please, Lord, if I could only

Have an angel to hold in my arms’

So, God made a girl, His best work of art

Oh, but He didn’t make no place to go when she breaks your hеart

So, man made a bar.”

Eric Church enters the picture in the second verse, asserting at the end, “Damn, the devil do some damage.” After singing the second chorus, with some Wallen contributions, Wallen performs the bridge, which involves a fallen angel. Both Wallen and Church sing marvelously, with ample twang. Besides the vocals, the melodies are tuneful, and the music accompaniment is ‘tried-and-true’ country. In case you didn’t know, “Man Made a Bar” for men to cope, or so Wallen and Church say.

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11. DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD, “men”

“men” » DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD » 2024

“Men / Don’t feel like one of them,” Welsh singer/songwriter DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD sings on their brief but telling single, “men”. Despite not feeling like a man, they continue, “But I want ‘em / Lord knows, I want ‘em.” On this brief but stunning piano ballad, DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD sings expressively with great authenticity. Their vocals are tender and moving. These lyrics seem to address a lack of masculinity, yet fulfilling it through the desire of a male partner. DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD wrote “men” while Oscar Moos produced it. Despite its brevity, “men” is deep. There is no lack of depth or opportunity to reflect. “Is it irony? / To worship gods I don’t believe,” they sing, likening men to gods while also speaking to the slippery slope of religion and, likely, men themselves. Still, like many men who desire and sleep with men, it’s a special experience: “To feel free when he’s on top of me / Leaving church with bruised knees.” Why are they leaving the church with bruised knees? It could be because of various reasons – use your imagination in some cases. DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD still has questions about who they are (“How’d I become a thing / Don’t understand”) but acknowledges, “I’m a man, I’m a man.” Interestingly, DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD mentions the lack of a dad, hence daddy issues, which contributes to all the things swirling around their mind on “men”. This song is a jam-packed, ‘can’t miss’ one-minute-and-change.

Appears in:

DONT MAKE THIS WEIRD, men: Beaming with Pride 🏳️‍🌈 No. 81 (2024)

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12. Whitney Houston, “You’re Still My Man”

Whitney » Arista » 1987

“On the day that you left me / You said no regrets / There’s a bond between us / That hasn’t been broken yet.” Those matters of the heart always fuel the fire for a wonderful musical selection. Once-in-a-lifetime vocalist Whitney Houston sang the wonderful “You’re Still My Man” on her 1987 tour de force, Whitney. The soaring ballad is the eighth track from the Grammy-nominated LP (“I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” won a Grammy, FYI). “You’re Still My Man” was written by Gerry Goffin and Michael Masser. Houston thrives on this ambitious, big, and beautiful ballad.

“You’re Still My Man” wasn’t one of the 40 songs that Houston charted on the Billboard Hot 100. It is, however, a solid album track from Whitney that deserves even more love. Broken up from ‘her man,’ per Houston, and the unforgettable chorus, “You’re still my man / Nothing can change it / We still be long together.” Ooh-wee! She goes on to add, “Our love will last forever.” With a second verse continuing to tout their bond and a bridge where she vows, “I’ll wait for you / The thought that keeps me going each day / Is to believe you still love me,” her bread is its most buttery in the final choruses. Here, Whitney navigates some epic key changes, showcasing the power and versatility of her pipes. The ad-libs are epic. Listening, I’m in sheer awe that someone possessed the ability to sing so celestially and perfectly. Like the big singles from Whitney, “You’re Still My Man” deserves its flowers too.

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13. Man 2 Man, “Male Stripper”

Male Stripper (Retrospective 1983 – 1990) » Recca / Paul Zone » 2007

“I was a male stripper in a gogo bar.” “Male Stripper” is an oldie but a goody! It is one of the songs that earned the Hi-NRG (under the electronic umbrella) band, Man 2 Man, attention. Man 2 Man was comprised of brothers Miki Zone (Bruno Cilione) (1955 – 1986) and Paul Zone (Paolo Cilione). “Male Stripper” is a colorful, hypnotic, and infectious electronic banger from the 1980s. It appears on the retrospective album, Male Stripper (Retrospective 1983 – 1990). There is the standard track, which runs nearly four-and-a-half minutes in duration, and an extended mix that pushes the duration to nearly seven minutes.

Minimalism and repetition are on full display in “Male Stripper.” The repetition is both musical and lyrical. Besides the loop of “I was a male stripper in a gogo bar,” and later, “Strip for me babe, strip for you / Strip for me ‘cause, I want you to,” we get some more details regarding the happenings in the gogo bar. Expectedly said male stripper is hot: “Ladies night Adonis, working after hours / Ripples on my chest, never got an address.” Oh, snap! Adding to the steaminess of the robotic vocals, the stripper encourages touch: “Hey Lolita, touch me, squeeze me.” And why wouldn’t she? Things get more risqué with the “Tips in my G-string,” and “In hot cop drag, in another man’s stag / Dressed to tease him, strip to sleaze ‘im.” The male stripper, “built like a truck” is queer, sexy, and most of all, earning those dollars for his services. If you’ve never experienced the musical magic of “Male Stripper”, you’re missing out.

Appears in:

Man 2 Man, Male Stripper: Midnight Heat 🕛 🔥 No. 75 (2024)

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14. Dusty Springfield, “Son of a Preacher Man”

Dusty in Memphis » Atlantic » 1969

According to the late, great Dusty Springfield (1939 – 1999), “The only one who could ever reach me / Was the son of a preacher man.” Some preacher’s kids do have reputations… Springfield was the first to record “Son of a Preacher Man”, written for another legendary singer: Aretha Franklin. Franklin covered it in 1970 but turned it down initially. Springfield landed a hit with this John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins-penned tour de force. Jerry Wexler, Tom Dowd, and Arif Mardin produced it. “Son of a Preacher Man” is the third track from Springfield’s soulful 1969 LP, Dusty in Memphis. It peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, one of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s four top 10 hits.

So, what kind of things did the son of a preacher man, cited as ‘Billy Ray’ in the song, teach Dusty Springfield? I can guarantee they weren’t Biblical! While his father, the preacher, would visit, “That’s when Billy would take me walkin’ / Out through the backyard, we’d go walkin’ / Then he’d look into my eyes / Lord knows, to my surprise…” He was a bad, bad boy! In the second verse, Dusty informs us, “He’d come and tell me everything is alright / He’d kiss and tell me everything is alright / Can I get away again tonight?” So, while the preacher was doing God’s work, Billy Ray and Dusty were getting busy! It’s understandable why Aretha Franklin initially turned it down (she was the daughter of Rev. C. L. Franklin). Dusty sings playfully and beautifully throughout “Son of a Preacher Man.” Her performance is soulful, but often a subtler brand of soul. She understood she wasn’t Aretha, but she made a timeless record with her fabulous, distinct instrument. Beyond her sweet pipes and the support of background vocalists, the arrangement and production are selling points. The Memphis sound (sick drum groove, robust bass, and joyful, articulated horns) is written all over “Son of a Preacher Man” without ever overpowering Dusty, who holds her own by the end. This is a prime example of a blue-eyed soul classic.

Appears in:

Dusty Springfield, Son of a Preacher Man: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 No. 153 (2024)

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15. Garland Green, “Jealous Kind Of Fella”

Jealous Kind Of Fella » UMG Recordings, Inc. » 1969

“Jealous kind of fella… / Hey, hey, hey…” Soul singer and pianist Garland Green (1942 – ) delivered a hit song with his classic, “Jealous Kind Of Fella”. “Jealous Kind Of Fella” is Green’s only single to impact the pop charts. It peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Jealous” is the opening track from his 1969 album, also titled Jealous Kind Of Fella. Green, Jo Armstead, Maurice Dollison, and Rudolph Browner wrote “Jealous Kind Of Fella.” Armstead and Mel Collins produced it.

“Jealous Kind Of Fella” is set in a lilting, compound duple meter. It exemplifies the late 1960s sound (strings and rhythm section). The record benefits from a robust bass line, sickening drum groove, sweet string riffs, and fantastic piano playing. Green delivers silky smooth vocals, singing soulfully with ease. It’s not all butter, though. Green also brings some grittiness, too. It makes sense given the fact he’s an admitted jealous kind of fella. “Hello, baby, please don’t be too mad at me / Because I punch that guy last night,” he asserts in the first verse, adding, “I want you to know this is one sign that I love you / Love you, I’m a jealous kind of fella.” In the second verse, he admits to embarrassing her, but asserts that the things he does are because of love. “You’ve given me more happiness than any man can claim,” he sings in the second verse, adding, “You’ve got me out of my head / ‘Cause I love you, love you / I’m just a jealous kind of fella.” Of course, the chorus is the centerpiece of this 1969 classic. Garland Green never reached the same heights as “Jealous Kind Of Fella”, but he scored on that one!

Appears in:

Garland Green, Jealous Kind Of Fella: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 No. 82 (2025)

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16. Billie Eilish, “Male Fantasy”

Happier Than Ever » Darkroom / Interscope » 2021

“Can’t get over you / No matter what I do / I know I should, but I could never hate you.” Let that set in. “Male Fantasy” is the closing cut from Happier Than Ever, the Grammy-nominated sophomore album from Academy and Grammy Award-winning pop singer/songwriter Billie Eilish. “Male Fantasy” has a tough act to follow in the epic “Happier Than Ever” – Eilish delivers the biggest vocals of her career. Despite following one of the best songs from Happier Than Ever, “Male Fantasy” has plenty of redeeming qualities. A reference to pornography raising eyebrows 👀 in the first verse: “Home alone, tryin’ not to eat / Distract myself with pornography.” That said, the pornographic lyric doesn’t define “Male Fantasy.”

The chorus is more telling:

“‘Cause I loved you then, and I love you now

And I don’t know how

Guess it’s hard to know when nobody else comes around

If I’m getting over you

Or just pretending to

Be alright, convince myself I hate you.”

The second verse is intriguing as well, where Eilish appears to have an inner struggle (“I got a call from a girl I used to know / We were inseparable years ago / Thought we’d get along, but it wasn’t so”). Evolution – it’s a beautiful thing. “Male Fantasy” is a sensational way to cap off Happier Than Ever.

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17. Patrick Cowley, “Menergy”

Megatron Man » Unidisc Music Inc. » 1981

“Menergy, menergy, menergy.” What did the late Patrick Cowley have a lot of? “Menergy”, of course! “Menergy” is the third track from Cowley’s 1981 album, Megatron Man. It also appears on Menergy – The Fusion Album (1981). The lyrics of this nearly nine-minute juggernaut are gay, gay, gay 🏳️‍🌈! The music deserves a huge shout-out. “Menergy” is groovy AF from the onset, filled with – wait for it – ENERGY. The synths are electrifying – colorful, rhythmic, and ear-catching. Cowley is a master behind the boards, concocting plenty of imaginative sounds. ‘80s to the core, “Menergy” still sounds fresh three decades after its arrival. Notably, following Cowley’s untimely death, a version of “Menergy” features the vocals of another late, great musician, Sylvester (1947 – 1988). The Sylvester version is much shorter, running five-and-a-half minutes in duration. In 2021, German producer Purple Disco Machine delivered an awesome remix (also featuring Sylvester’s vocals).

“The boys in the bathroom living it up / Shootin’ off menergy.” Shootin’ off, huh? The vocals feature effects (vocoder), fitting given the dance/electronic style. Again, thematically, the lyrics are intentionally G-A-Y. Cowley was gay and collaborated with other gay artists, including Sylvester, before his death from AIDS 😢. Gay music for a gay audience? Perfection. What other things do the boys do to show off their menergy? “The boys in the back room laughin’ it up / Shootin’ off energy,” and, expectedly, “The boys in the bedroom lovin’ it up / Shootin’ off menergy.” Boys enjoy the pleasure of sex. Gay, groovy, and great, “Menergy” is the sugar, honey, iced tea.

Appears in:

Patrick Cowley, Menergy: Bangerz N Bopz 🔥 No. 76 (2024)

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18. The Spinners, “The Rubberband Man”

Happiness Is Being With The Spinners » Atlantic Recording Corp. » 1976

“You and me, we’re goin’ out / To catch the latest sound / Guaranteed to blow your mind / So high you won’t come down.” Grammy-nominated R&B collective The Spinners struck gold (literally) with “The Rubberband Man”, the fourth track on their 1976 album, Happiness Is Being With The Spinners. This version of the song runs nearly seven-and-a-half minutes. The popular single edit runs just over three-and-a-half minutes. Dynamic duo Linda Creed and Thom Bell composed this soul juggernaut. Bell also produced it. One of seven top 10 hits on the pop charts, the beloved track peaked at no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Boy, that Rubberband man’s a doozy / Move so quick, uh, he make me woozy.” Ooh-wee! A distinct, rhythmic riff at the beginning sets the tone. Thom Bell ‘put his foot’ into the musical arrangement and production. MFSB provides the instrumentation, including the killer, funky bass line. Beyond a lit rhythm section are sickening brass and strings, which exemplify the lush, rich Philly soul sound. Philippé Wynne ‘tears it up’ on lead vocals, backed sensationally by the rest of The Spinners and some additional background vocalists. For most of his performance, Wynne sings. He shapes the tuneful melodies in the verses and especially in the chorus. “When I saw this short, fat guy / Stretch a band between his toes,” Wynne sings in the second verse, concluding, “Hey, I laughed so hard / ‘Cause the man got down / When it finally reached his nose.” Oh, snap! Who is this Rubberband Man? Thom Bell’s son, Mark, was a big kid nicknamed “The Fat Man” by his classmates. The song, originally called “The Fat Man,” is about a large man who can really move. It was intended to change the perception and stereotypes of larger people. The chorus is the crowning achievement:

“Hey, y’all, prepare yourself for the rubberband man

You’ve never heard a sound

Like the rubberband man

You’re bound to lose control

When the rubberband starts to jam.”

Ultimately, “The Rubberband Man” is a bop for the ages – one of the most entertaining songs in the soul catalog.

Appears in:

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19. David Ruffin, “Common Man”

David Ruffin » Motown » 1973

“But I’ve never, never, never, never, changed / I never changed one grain of sand / Oh, thanks to you, baby /… for just loving a common man.” David Ruffin (1941 – 1991) was one of the most dynamic singers ever. As the frontman of The Temptations, he was quite the showman – electrifying. As a solo artist, he continued to flourish thanks to his tremendous vocal gifts. His demons were his undoing, sadly, but the voice endures forever. “Common Man” wasn’t one of Ruffin’s six chart entries on the pop charts, but the second track from his self-titled 1973 album is marvelous despite its modest chart performance. It was written and produced by Bobby Miller.

“Common Man” has ample pros. First and foremost, David Ruffin is a beast. It begins with his electrifying opening run, showing off his vocal versatility. The vocals are expressive and nuanced throughout. He ‘gives his all’ as he sings, bringing incredible authenticity, grit, personality, and soulfulness.

“You said, and you said it softly

I didn’t have to worry about being a common man

You said, ‘David, you don’t have to worry about rising to the top’

You said, you said, you said I didn’t have to swear by my blood

But ah baby, that one day your heartaches would stop.”

His ad-libs are awe-inspiring and otherworldly. He gets a lift from the background vocals. The chorus, excerpted earlier, is the centerpiece. The second go-round, there is a slight variation. He caps things off with a dynamic outro, showing gratitude to her for accepting him for his commonness. The melodies are tuneful. The production is lush and soulful – the perfect canvas for him to paint upon. David Ruffin was ‘that’ guy – talented to the nth degree. “Common Man” is awesome, more than 50 years after his arrival.

Appears in:

David Ruffin, Common Man: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 No. 21 (2025)

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20. Jerry Butler, “Hey, Western Union Man”

The Ice Man Cometh » Mercury / UMG Recordings, Inc. » 1968

“Oh, Western Union Man / Send a telegram to my baby / Send a telegram, send a telegram, woah.” That is a dated request, right? Perhaps, since, generally, sending telegrams is a thing of the past, specifically by Western Union. Still, that doesn’t stop refined baritone singer Jerry Butler (1939 – 2025) and “Hey, Western Union Man” from ‘catching the ears’ nearly 60 years after his 1968 Grammy-nominated masterpiece, The Ice Man Cometh, arrived. “Hey, Western Union Man” commences The Ice Man Cometh with a bang. It was written by Butler alongside the iconic songwriting and production duo of Kenneth Gamble (1943 – ) and Leon Huff (1942 – ). A top 20 hit for Butler, “Western Union Man” peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Hey, Western Union Man” is a masterclass in how to begin an album. Instantly, the song ‘hypes up’ the listener. How? “Western Union Man” is groovy to the nth degree – a catalyst for body movement. The musical arrangement and production are glorious. The rhythm section is tight, while the string riffs are decadent. The melodies are tuneful, setting the tone for the masterpiece that is The Ice Man Cometh overall. Of course, the ‘star of the show’ is Jerry Butler, who was simply one of the greatest of great soul musicians. His performance is nuanced and soulful without feeling the least bit forced. Butler infuses ample personality regarding L-O-V-E. “I want you to tell her that I’m all alone / I tried to call her on the phone,” he asserts in the first verse, continuing, “Tell her I’m in misery and think she’s avoiding me.” In the second verse, he remains persistent regarding the telegram: “Tell me, have you got a boy you can send? / Well, this is what I want him to do / Put him on his bike right away / See if he can get my message through.” Who cares if telegrams are rare anymore? What is most relevant and important about “Hey, Western Union Man” is ‘boy chasing/pursuing a girl he likes’, which will NEVER get old. He needs her – it’s crucial! The Iceman ‘eats’ on this unforgettable classic.

Appears in:

Jerry Butler, Hey, Western Union Man: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 No. 32 (2025)

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20 More Great Songs All About Men! (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; 21 Entertainment Group, Arista, Atlantic, Big Loud, Darkroom, Dirty Hit, gaypimp, Geffen, in:ciite, Interscope, Mercury, MJJ Productions Inc., Motown, Paul Zone, pgLang, Recca, Sony Music Entertainment, UMG Recordings, Inc., Unidisc Music Inc.; Abd Elrahman Elokby, Andrea Piacquadio, Becca Correia, Leonardo Goncalves wild, Marcelo Chagas, Rizwan Aslam, Wictor Cardoso from Pexels; AcatXIo from Pixabay; Dave Goudreau, Levi Meir Clancy from Unsplash]

20 More Great Songs All About Men! | Playlist 🎧

Published by the musical hype on June 27, 2025June 27, 2025