The Origins of “Soul Sister”
As the 1970s and 1980s unfolded, the term "soul sister" began to transcend its original context, adopted by wider circles to describe close female friendships across cultures.
The term "soul sister" has woven itself into the cultural fabric as a symbol of deep connection, solidarity, and sisterhood. But where did this evocative phrase come from, and how did it evolve to carry the rich meaning it holds today?
Cultural Roots in African American Vernacular
The term "soul sister" is deeply rooted in African American culture, and it first emerged during the 1960s, a period marked by the civil rights movement, social change, and a profound shift in cultural identity. "Soul" became a defining term in the African American community to signify pride, depth, and authenticity in Black culture. Whether it was through music, dance, or fashion, the idea of "soul" represented something inherently powerful and true to one’s roots.
"Soul brother" and "soul sister" were natural extensions of this movement. These terms were used within African American communities to express solidarity and camaraderie among Black men and women, emphasizing a shared experience of struggle, pride, and unity. To call someone a "soul sister" was to recognize her as more than just a friend; she was someone whose spirit resonated with yours on a deeper, more emotional level—someone who understood your struggles, joys, and passions because they were shared.
Influence of Soul Music
The rise of soul music in the 1960s and 1970s played a significant role in popularizing the term "soul sister." Artists like Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, and Etta James—women who embodied both musical talent and a fierce sense of independence—helped define what it meant to have "soul" as both an artist and a person. The genre itself was steeped in emotion and authenticity, touching on themes of love, pain, resilience, and freedom, often mirroring the experiences of Black women.
Through this lens, the term "soul sister" became more than a colloquial expression; it became a reflection of shared identity, collective resilience, and emotional depth among Black women. It spoke to the way they supported each other, uplifted one another, and carried their communities forward in the face of adversity.
Expanding the Term
As the 1970s and 1980s unfolded, the term "soul sister" began to transcend its original context, adopted by wider circles to describe close female friendships across cultures. While it maintained its original meaning of deep emotional and spiritual connection, it broadened to signify any bond between women that went beyond the surface level. "Soul sister" became a way to describe those friendships that feel destined, where two people connect in ways that seem almost cosmic.
This evolution did not dilute the term but instead allowed it to become a celebration of feminine connection, no matter one’s background. Women across the globe began to identify with the phrase, using it to describe those relationships where understanding is intuitive, support is unwavering, and the bond feels eternal.
"Soul Sister" Today
Today, "soul sister" continues to carry a powerful resonance, representing more than just friendship. In a world that can often feel fragmented and isolating, a "soul sister" offers a reminder of the healing power of connection, unity, and mutual support. She is someone who offers emotional intimacy, strength, and understanding, a partner in both joy and hardship.
In feminist spaces, the term has further evolved to embody the ideals of sisterhood and solidarity among women who support each other in personal, professional, and societal struggles. It’s a recognition that women can draw strength from one another, nurturing relationships that empower, uplift, and inspire.
Conclusion: A Term Rich in History and Heart
The origins of "soul sister" are deeply tied to the rich cultural history of African American communities and the rise of soul music. It is a phrase born out of a need for connection and solidarity among women facing shared struggles. While its cultural roots remain strong, "soul sister" has grown to become a universal term of affection, representing the kind of bond that transcends friendship and touches the spirit. It’s a powerful reminder of the deep connections we form when we open our hearts to one another, standing together in both triumph and challenge.
-Kaci Smith, LMFT
I am a licensed psychotherapist and mom in California. I am passionate about bringing women together through mutually empathic relationships that foster healing and growth. I run online women’s therapy groups year round.