Bobby Bland, also known as the “Lion of the Blues”, was an American blues singer and songwriter who became known for his unique blend of blues, R&B, and soul music. Born in Tennessee in 1930, Bland began his career as a blues singer in the early 1950s, and quickly became known for his powerful vocals and emotional performances.
Bland’s music was characterized by his smooth, velvety voice and his ability to convey deep emotion through his music. He often sang about love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life, and his music spoke to listeners of all backgrounds and experiences.
Throughout his career, Bland released a number of hit songs, including “Ain’t No Love in the Heart of the City,” “Turn on Your Love Light,” and “Stormy Monday Blues.” He also collaborated with a number of other legendary musicians, including B.B. King and Ray Charles.
Bland was known for his dedication to his craft, and he continued to perform and record music throughout his life. He passed away in 2013 at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and unforgettable performances. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential blues and soul singers of his generation.
1. Members Only
“Members Only” is a classic soul song by American singer Bobby Bland. The song was released in 1985 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart. Bland’s soulful voice perfectly captures the mood of the song, which speaks of the exclusivity and allure of a private club for the elite. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a funky rhythm that perfectly complements the lyrics. “Members Only” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and its enduring popularity is a testament to Bland’s incredible talent as a singer and performer.
2. Turn On Your Love Light
“Turn On Your Love Light” is a classic blues and soul song by Bobby Bland. The song is known for its powerful vocals and catchy, upbeat melody. Bland’s smooth and soulful voice delivers the lyrics with passion and intensity, backed by a strong band with horns and organ. The song features a call-and-response structure, with Bland urging the listener to turn on their love light and let their true feelings shine through. The song has been covered by many artists over the years and has become a staple of the blues and soul genres. “Turn On Your Love Light” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move audiences today.
3. Ain’t No Love in the Heart of the City
“Ain’t No Love in the Heart of the City” is a soulful ballad by American singer Bobby Bland, released in 1974. The song tells the story of a man who has lost his way in the city and is struggling to find love and companionship. The lyrics are emotive and introspective, with Bland’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and despair. The melody is atmospheric and haunting, with a powerful horn section and soulful guitar riff that create a sense of longing and desperation. “Ain’t No Love in the Heart of the City” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of urban loneliness and the universal desire for connection and love.
4. Farther Up the Road
“Farther Up the Road” is a classic blues song by American singer Bobby Bland. The song was released in 1957 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart. Bland’s soulful voice perfectly captures the mood of the song, which speaks of the pain and longing of lost love. The melody is slow and melancholic, with a mournful and wistful sound that perfectly complements the lyrics. “Farther Up the Road” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world, and its enduring popularity is a testament to Bland’s incredible talent as a blues singer and performer.
5. I’ll Take Care of You
“I’ll Take Care of You” is a classic blues ballad written by Brook Benton and performed by Bobby Bland. The song showcases Bland’s soulful voice as he promises to take care of his lover, even in the darkest times. With its emotive lyrics and Bland’s powerful delivery, the song has become a staple of blues and soul music. The track has been covered by various artists, including Gil Scott-Heron and Joss Stone. Bland’s version was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing its status as one of the greatest blues songs of all time.
6. I Pity the Fool
“I Pity the Fool” is a classic blues song by American singer Bobby Bland, released in 1961. The song tells the story of a man who has been wronged by a woman and is now full of regret and sorrow. The lyrics are raw and emotional, with Bland’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of pain and frustration. The melody is soulful and bluesy, with a driving rhythm section and powerful horn arrangement that create a sense of intensity and passion. “I Pity the Fool” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of heartbreak and the universal experience of betrayal and loss.
7. Cry Cry Cry
“Cry Cry Cry” is a classic blues song by American singer Bobby Bland. The song was released in 1960 and quickly became a hit, reaching number four on the Billboard R&B chart. Bland’s powerful and soulful voice perfectly captures the mood of the song, which speaks of the pain and heartbreak of lost love. The melody is slow and mournful, with a haunting and melancholic sound that perfectly complements the lyrics. “Cry Cry Cry” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world, and its enduring popularity is a testament to Bland’s incredible talent as a blues singer and performer.
8. Love to See You Smile
“Love to See You Smile” is a classic Bobby Bland song that features his signature smooth and soulful vocals. The song is a romantic ballad that speaks of the joys of being in love and the beauty of seeing a smile on the face of someone you care about. The slow, bluesy rhythm of the song perfectly complements Bland’s vocals and the emotional depth of the lyrics. With its catchy chorus and memorable guitar riffs, “Love to See You Smile” remains a timeless love song that continues to captivate listeners to this day.
9. This Time, I’m Gone for Good
“This Time, I’m Gone for Good” is a soulful ballad by American singer Bobby Bland, released in 1974. The song tells the story of a man who has finally reached his breaking point and is leaving his lover for good. The lyrics are emotive and introspective, with Bland’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of resolve and determination. The melody is atmospheric and haunting, with a soulful guitar riff and powerful horn section that create a sense of sorrow and regret. “This Time, I’m Gone for Good” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of heartbreak and the universal experience of letting go.
10. That’s The Way Love Is
“That’s The Way Love Is” is a classic Bobby Bland song that was released in 1963. The song features Bland’s soulful vocals backed by a prominent horn section and a grooving rhythm section. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of a relationship and how sometimes love can be painful and difficult. Bland’s emotive delivery of the lyrics perfectly captures the complexities of love and the ups and downs of life. The song has a timeless quality to it and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. It remains one of Bland’s most popular and enduring songs, showcasing his talents as a soulful and passionate singer.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
