Bill Withers was an American singer-songwriter and musician who gained fame in the 1970s for his soulful and heartfelt compositions. He was born in 1938 in West Virginia and started his music career relatively late, releasing his debut album, “Just As I Am,” at the age of 33. His music was heavily influenced by the blues and R&B, and he wrote many of his songs based on his own life experiences. Withers is best known for hits such as “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Lean on Me,” and “Lovely Day,” which have become iconic songs in the soul and R&B genres. His distinctive voice, honest lyrics, and soulful melodies earned him a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015. Though he passed away in 2020, his music remains timeless and continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
1. “Ain’t No Sunshine”
“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a classic soul song by Bill Withers that was released in 1971. The song features a simple yet captivating melody and a powerful vocal performance by Withers, which has made it one of the most recognizable and beloved songs of the era. The lyrics describe the feeling of loneliness and despair when someone special is gone, with the repeated refrain “ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone.” The song’s melancholic mood and raw emotional delivery have made it a timeless classic and a staple of soul and R&B music.
2. “Lean on Me”
“Lean on Me” is a classic soul song written and performed by Bill Withers. The song was released in 1972 and quickly became an anthem for friendship, unity, and support. With its uplifting melody and powerful lyrics, the song encourages listeners to turn to one another in times of need and to provide support and strength for each other. “Lean on Me” became a massive hit, topping the charts and earning Withers a Grammy Award. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years and has become a beloved staple of popular music, continuing to inspire and uplift people around the world.
3. “Use Me”
“Use Me” is a funky and infectious track that showcases Bill Withers’ smooth and soulful voice. The song’s groovy bassline and catchy guitar riffs make it a popular party tune, but its lyrics reveal a more serious message about the pitfalls of being taken advantage of in a relationship. Withers’ expert delivery and the song’s irresistible hook make “Use Me” a standout track in his discography, one that has stood the test of time as a classic example of ’70s soul and funk music.
4. “Lovely Day”
“Lovely Day” is a soulful and uplifting song by the late Bill Withers. Released in 1977, the song’s infectious groove and Withers’ smooth vocals instantly captivate the listener. The song’s message of hope and optimism is conveyed through lyrics like “When the day that lies ahead of me / Seems impossible to face / When someone else instead of me / Always seems to know the way.” Withers’ use of repetition and layering of instruments creates a rich and full sound, making “Lovely Day” a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
5. “Just the Two of Us” (with Grover Washington Jr.)
“Just the Two of Us” is a smooth and soulful duet by Bill Withers and Grover Washington Jr. Released in 1981, the song was a massive hit and is now considered a classic of its era. Withers’ rich, warm voice blends perfectly with Washington’s saxophone, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. The lyrics describe a couple who are deeply in love and content with each other’s company. The song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions. “Just the Two of Us” is a timeless love song that has remained popular with audiences for decades.
6. “Grandma’s Hands”
“Grandma’s Hands” is a soulful and poignant song by Bill Withers, released in 1971 as a part of his debut album “Just As I Am”. The song is a tribute to his grandmother and the comforting feeling of being in her presence. The lyrics are rich in imagery, describing the worn hands of his grandmother, the stories she tells and the love she exudes. The simple arrangement of guitar, piano and drums, along with Withers’ soulful voice, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The song became a fan favorite and has since been covered by several artists, cementing its status as a classic.
7. “Who Is He (And What Is He to You)?”
“Who Is He (And What Is He to You)?” is a soulful track from Bill Withers’ 1972 album “Still Bill”. The song has a groovy beat with a catchy guitar riff and Withers’ smooth vocals. The lyrics tell a story of a woman who is suspicious of her partner’s infidelity and confronts him about it, asking the title question. Withers’ delivery is full of emotion and captures the frustration and betrayal of the situation. The song has been covered by various artists and remains a timeless classic in the soul and R&B genre.
8. “Harlem”
“Harlem” is a soulful track from Bill Withers’ 1971 album “Just As I Am”. The song is a tribute to the historic neighborhood in New York City and is filled with vivid imagery of its streets and people. Withers’ smooth and soulful vocals are accompanied by a groovy rhythm section and a jazzy saxophone solo, creating a sound that’s both upbeat and nostalgic. The song showcases Withers’ talent for storytelling and his ability to capture the spirit of a place and its people through his music. “Harlem” remains a classic in Withers’ repertoire and a testament to his enduring legacy as a soul icon.
9. “I Can’t Write Left-Handed”
“I Can’t Write Left-Handed” is a powerful anti-war song written by Bill Withers that tells the story of a wounded soldier returning home from war. Withers’ emotive vocals convey the pain and struggle of the soldier as he struggles to come to terms with his injuries and the trauma of war. The song’s sparse instrumentation, featuring just Withers’ guitar and a haunting organ, adds to the raw and intimate feel of the track. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
10. “Kissing My Love”
“Kissing My Love” is a funk-inspired track from Bill Withers’ 1973 album “Still Bill”. The song features a groovy bassline, brass section, and Withers’ smooth vocals as he sings about being in love with someone and how they share a deep connection through their physical touch. Withers’ unique voice and the song’s infectious rhythm make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite. “Kissing My Love” showcases Withers’ ability to blend soul, funk, and blues to create a timeless sound that continues to be celebrated by music lovers today.
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.
