Word before food or mate

SOUL

Think of a term that describes deep emotional or spiritual connection, often paired with "sister" or found in music genres.

This clue plays on common two-word phrases where "soul" comes first. "Soul food" refers to a style of cooking rooted in African American culture, while "soul mate" describes a deeply connected partner. The answer is simply the word that fits before both "food" and "mate" in those familiar expressions.