Green released his next album, Al Green Gets Next to You, at the end of 1970 which featured his legendary first hit single, “Tired of Being Alone.” In 1972, Green released “Let’s Stay Together,” which reached number eight on the pop charts, and four months later he released “I’m Still in Love with You,” which reached number four on the charts. His songs “Call Me,” “Here I Am,” and “Sha-La-La (Make Me Happy),” became top ten gold singles, lasting star power.
Known as the “The Church In The Heart Of The City, With The City In Its Heart,” many local leaders and community advocates regarded Bethel as their church home. In July of 1995, the City of Grand Rapids honored him by naming the cross street Bethel was located on, Abney Avenue SE. This avenue remains located between Lake Drive and Cherry Street.