Our top 10 Tower of Power songs spotlight an American band that has been a cornerstone of the soul genre for over five decades. Formed in 1968, Tower of Power’s journey began when vocalist Emilio Castillo met baritone saxophonist Stephen “Doc” Kupka. Castillo, experienced with several bands and encouraged by his father, decided to hire Kupka after an impressive home audition. Initially named The Motowns, the pair quickly made a name for themselves, performing at various gigs and building a dedicated following with their soulful sound.
Their desire to perform at Bill Graham’s Fillmore Auditorium led to a pivotal name change to Tower of Power, a moniker they have kept ever since. With the new name, Castillo and Kupka expanded their duo into a full band, a move that soon led to a recording contract with San Francisco Records and the release of their debut album, East Bay Grease in 1970. On this album, singer Rufus Miller handled most of the lead vocals, helping to establish the band’s signature blend of soul and funk.
The debut album’s success caught the attention of KSAN, a radio station known for playing music from well-known acts like Eric Mercury, Cold Blood, and Marvin Gaye. After this initial success, Tower of Power signed with Warner Bros. Records and underwent another significant change, replacing Rufus Miller with Rick Stevens as lead vocalist. Stevens made a lasting impact with his performance on “You’re Still a Young Man” from the album Bump City (1972), which climbed to number twenty-nine on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing his powerful vocals despite his relatively brief tenure with the band.
In 1973, Tower of Power released their third studio album, which marked a significant turning point with the addition of soul singer Lenny Williams on lead vocals. This album also introduced new members, including Lenny Pickett on lead tenor sax, Bruce Conte on guitar, and Chester D. Thompson on keyboards. This lineup produced what some have considered the band’s most successful single to date (we’ll reveal its ranking in our top 10 list shortly).
As the years progressed, Tower of Power released hits and built upon their earlier successes. However, Lenny Williams eventually departed from the band and was replaced by vocalist Hubert Tubbs. The 1970s were the zenith of the band’s popularity, with many of their songs receiving substantial airplay.
Throughout their career, Tower of Power has been renowned not just for their own music but also for their collaborations with a wide array of artists. They have been sought after for performances and for providing horn sections on albums by iconic acts, including Little Feat, Aerosmith, Labelle, Heart, Eric Clapton, Santana, Elton John, and many others. Despite frequent lineup changes, founding members Emilio Castillo and Stephen Kupka have been constants in the band.
Tower of Power’s enduring legacy is reflected in a discography spanning more than five decades. Their latest full-length studio release is It’s Christmas (2024). Now, let’s dive into the top 10 Tower of Power songs, showcasing the best from their extensive and influential musical journey.
# 10 – Look in My Eyes
Leading off our top 10 Tower of Power songs is “Look in My Eyes,” a standout track from the album Step Up (2020). Released as the album’s third single, this song delivers a high-energy burst of horn-filled funk that fans have come to adore from Tower of Power. Marking a significant moment, the band created a music video for “Look in My Eyes,” their first in over thirty years. The electrifying performance showcases the band’s masterful arrangement of bass, horns, and strings, breathing life into every note. Emilio Castillo, still a powerhouse in the group, adds a dynamic layer with his lead vocals in this vibrant recording.
# 9 – Soul with a Capital “S”
“Soul with a Capital S” stands as Tower of Power’s anthem to soul music, showcasing their unmistakable affection for the genre. The song is packed with marvelous and delicious harmonies that amplify its vibrant energy. This track truly epitomizes Tower of Power’s deep-rooted love for soul music, guaranteed to satisfy listeners craving more of their signature sound. While some critics have pointed out the song’s prominent funk vibes, suggesting it might stray from traditional soul, the band’s fans are less concerned with these debates. Instead, they remain captivated by what Tower of Power offers: soul music with a capital “S.”
# 8 – Only So Much Oil in the Ground
Urban Renewal marked the last Tower of Power album to feature legendary lead vocalist Lenny Williams, who left the band to pursue a successful solo career. Among his notable solo hits is “Cause I Love You.” Before his departure, Williams delivered one of his most impeccable vocal performances in the song “Only So Much Oil in the Ground.”
Emilio Castillo and Stephen Kupka penned the song in response to the 1971 oil spill in San Francisco Bay. This environmental disaster unfolded when two tankers collided, making headlines and inspiring the song’s creation. Castillo has called “Only So Much Oil in the Ground” the band’s hidden gem. Although it peaked at number 102 on the charts, it has remained a favorite in the band’s live performances, continuing to resonate with audiences for its poignant message and compelling delivery.
# 7 – Soul Vaccination
“Soul Vaccination,” released in 1973 by Tower of Power, showcases the band members’ exceptional instrumental skills. The track features a standout tenor sax performance that seamlessly transitions into a magnificent baritone sax solo, highlighting the group’s mastery of the horns. The robust, energetic horn sections truly bring the song to life, showing why Tower of Power is renowned for its brass arrangements. Additionally, the drumming on “Soul Vaccination” is top-notch, adding a layer of sophistication and rhythm that enhances the release’s overall impact. This song shows how each instrument contributes to the band’s dynamic, soulful sound.
# 6 – Squib Cakes
While most of the songs in our top 10 Tower of Power songs were crafted by the band’s founders, Stephen Kupka and Emilio Castillo, “Squib Cakes” is an exception. Featured on the 1974 album Back to Oakland, “Squib Cakes” was penned by Chester Thompson, the band’s virtuoso on organ, acoustic piano, and bass pedals. The instrumental showcases a tenor sax solo by Lenny Pickett, who, along with the rest of the band, delivers a stunning performance. Chester Thompson’s organ skills are particularly noteworthy in this track, adding a vibrant and compelling layer to the piece. The term “Squib Cakes,” used by Mic Gillette and Chester Thompson, is a playful reference to the backsides of lovely ladies, adding a bit of funk-era cheekiness to the song’s legacy.
# 5 – Diggin’ On James Brown
Number five on our top 10 Tower of Power songs is the hit “Diggin’ On James Brown.” The song appears on one of Tower of Power’s less famous albums, Souled Out. “Diggin’ On James Brown” is a sympathetic tribute to Brown. This is evident in its criticism of some of the music that followed Brown, even though the album heavily used drum machines. The song featured vocalist Brent Carter and drummer Herman Matthews, a cousin to former Tower of Power vocalist Rick Stevens.
# 4 – Me & Mrs. Jones
Tower of Power took on the hit “Me & Mrs. Jones” for their 2009 album Great American Soulbook. Kenny Gamble, Cary Gilbert, and Leon Huff initially wrote the song. Billy Paul first recorded the song, whose rendition became his only number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Me & Mrs. Jones” is an exquisite soul jam that portrays the extramarital affair between a man and his ‘entanglement,’ Mrs. Jones.
It vividly depicts the two having a daily rendezvous at the same place at the same time. During these encounters, they engage in heartfelt conversations and tenderly hold hands. Billy Paul’s rendition blends jazz, pop, and R&B, showcasing his captivating vocal style influenced by artists such as Nina Simone, Carmen McRae, and Billie Holiday. Tower of Power’s version stands out among the remarkable covers of this song, alongside other notable acts and artists, including Michael Bublé, The Dramatics, Freddie Jackson, and Taufik Batisah.
# 3 – You’re Still a Young Man
“You’re Still a Young Man” marked the first collaborative effort between Tower of Power’s founders, Emilio and Stephen. This track became Tower of Power’s first major hit and was featured on the album Bump City. Emilio disclosed that the song revolves around a young man infatuated with an older woman. Yet, what does the lady convey to the young man? She suggests that there are plenty of opportunities for someone his age.
In a sense, the woman harbors insecurities that the young man might eventually leave her for younger women. Emilio further revealed that the song is inspired by a true story: his own experience years ago when he, at eighteen, was involved with a woman six years his senior, aged twenty-four. Eventually, she ended the relationship, prompting Emilio to reflect on his plea to salvage it through this song. “You’re Still a Young Man” reached number twenty-nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
# 2 – What Is Hip?
Emilio Castillo credited Stephen Kupka for the brilliant lyrical concept behind the track “What Is Hip?” This song is included in the band’s self-titled album and serves as a reminder that what’s considered hip today may eventually become outdated. Interestingly, “What Is Hip?” incorporates a bass line reminiscent of Freddie King’s “Going Down.” Sheila E had initially planned to cover “What Is Hip?” However, due to Tower of Power’s horn section being unavailable, she opted instead for the iconic song “Lady Marmalade” by Labelle.
# 1 – So Very Hard to Go
Number one on our top 10 Tower of Power songs is the hit “So Very Hard to Go.” This original composition by Emilio and Stephen is featured on the band’s self-titled album. “So Very Hard to Go” serves as a poignant farewell ballad inspired by Emilio Castillo’s personal experience with a woman named Sharon. The song beautifully depicts the difficulty of parting ways in a relationship.
Interestingly, while “So Very Hard to Go” portrays a heartfelt attachment between the lovers, Post Malone’s “Goodbyes” conveys more of a passionate farewell to a failed relationship. Despite the differing tones, “So Very Hard to Go” stands as Tower of Power’s most successful release, reaching number seventeen on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Updated August 17, 2026.
Top 10 Tower Of Power Songs article published on ClassicRockHistory.com © 2026
