The movie Soul Men stars Samuel L. Jackson as Louis and the late Bernie Mac as Floyd. The two former backup singers were once part of a successful group known as the Real Deal. However, after a falling out, they went their separate ways and haven't spoken in two decades.
When their lead singer, Marcus Hooks, passes away, his former bandmates are invited to perform at his funeral in New York City. Louis and Floyd begrudgingly agree to put their differences aside and travel from Los Angeles to New York together.
To complicate matters, a young woman named Cleo (played by singer and actress Sharon Leal) shows up claiming to be Floyd's daughter. She also happens to be a talented singer and joins the group as the new lead vocalist.
The journey to New York is fraught with mishaps and arguments, but as they spend more time together, Louis and Floyd begin to reconnect and reminisce about their past. They also face personal challenges, such as Louis' health issues and Floyd's struggles as a father.
When they finally arrive in New York, the duo, with Cleo, must confront their old demons and perform one last time in honor of their beloved friend and former bandmate. Along the way, they discover the true meaning of friendship and the importance of forgiveness.