Bill Withers was an American singer-songwriter and musician, known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. He was born on July 4, 1938, in Slab Fork, West Virginia, and passed away on March 30, 2020.
Withers began his music career later in life, releasing his debut album, “Just As I Am,” in 1971 at the age of 33. The album included his breakthrough hit “Ain’t No Sunshine,” which earned him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song. With its haunting melody and emotional depth, “Ain’t No Sunshine” became one of Withers’ most iconic songs.
Throughout the 1970s, Withers continued to release critically acclaimed albums and singles, including “Lean on Me,” “Use Me,” “Lovely Day,” and “Just the Two of Us.” His music often blended elements of soul, R&B, blues, and folk, and his lyrics touched on themes of love, friendship, and social justice.
Withers’ distinctive voice, introspective songwriting, and understated musical arrangements set him apart in the music industry. Despite his relatively short recording career, he left a lasting impact on generations of listeners and fellow musicians.
In recognition of his contributions to music, Bill Withers was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015. He remains revered as one of the greatest soul singers of all time, with his songs continuing to resonate with audiences around the world.
1. Lovely Day
“Lovely Day” is a soul and R&B song written by Bill Withers and Skip Scarborough. It was released by Bill Withers in 1977 as part of his album “Menagerie.”
“Lovely Day” is known for its uplifting and positive lyrics, which celebrate the joy of waking up to a beautiful morning. The song’s catchy melody and Withers’ soulful vocals contributed to its popularity, making it one of his most enduring hits.
One distinctive feature of “Lovely Day” is Withers’ sustained note on the word “day” in the chorus, which lasts for over 18 seconds in the original recording. This feat is often cited as one of the longest sustained notes in popular music history.
“Lovely Day” has been covered and sampled by numerous artists over the years and has appeared in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its timeless message of optimism and gratitude continues to resonate with audiences, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of soul and R&B music.
2. Use Me
“Use Me” is a soul and funk song written and performed by Bill Withers. It was released in 1972 as a single from his album “Still Bill.”
“Use Me” features a funky groove with a prominent bassline and rhythmic guitar riff. Withers’ soulful vocals deliver the song’s lyrics, which speak to a complicated relationship dynamic where one partner feels used by the other. Despite the potentially negative subject matter, the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm give it a lively and danceable feel.
“Use Me” became one of Bill Withers’ biggest hits, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success solidified Withers’ reputation as one of the leading voices in soul music during the 1970s.
With its distinctive sound and Withers’ expressive delivery, “Use Me” remains a standout track in Withers’ discography and a classic in the realm of soul and funk music. It has been covered and sampled by numerous artists across various genres, further cementing its influence and legacy in popular music.
3. Just The Two Of Us
“Just the Two of Us” is a soul and R&B song originally performed by Grover Washington Jr. and Bill Withers. It was released in 1981 as a single from Washington’s album “Winelight.”
The song is characterized by its smooth groove, jazzy instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics celebrating love and companionship. Withers’ soulful vocals and Washington’s saxophone playing blend seamlessly to create a romantic atmosphere.
“Just the Two of Us” became a major hit, reaching high positions on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Song in 1982.
The song has since become a classic of the soul and R&B genres, cherished for its timeless melody and universal message of love. It has been covered and sampled by numerous artists over the years, further solidifying its status as an iconic love song.
4. Ain’t No Sunshine
“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a soul song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers. It was released in 1971 as a single from his debut album “Just As I Am.”
The song features a sparse arrangement with Withers’ emotive vocals accompanied by a simple guitar riff and minimal instrumentation. Its lyrics express the feelings of loneliness and longing that accompany the absence of a loved one, with the repeated refrain “I know” emphasizing the depth of the narrator’s emotions.
“Ain’t No Sunshine” became one of Bill Withers’ most iconic songs and a classic of the soul genre. It reached high positions on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s raw emotion and Withers’ soulful delivery resonated with audiences, and it has since been covered and sampled by numerous artists across different genres.
5. Lean On Me
“Lean on Me” is a soul song written and performed by Bill Withers. It was released in 1972 as part of his album “Still Bill.”
“Lean on Me” is one of Withers’ most iconic and enduring songs. It features a simple yet powerful melody and heartfelt lyrics that convey a message of support, friendship, and unity. Withers’ soulful vocals, accompanied by piano and gospel-inspired background vocals, give the song a stirring and uplifting quality.
The lyrics of “Lean on Me” encourage listeners to reach out to others in times of need and to offer a helping hand. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Lean on me, when you’re not strong, and I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on,” has become widely recognized and has resonated with audiences around the world.
“Lean on Me” became a massive hit for Bill Withers, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the defining songs of his career. Its universal message of compassion and support has made it a beloved anthem for community and solidarity.
Over the years, “Lean on Me” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity and timeless message continue to make it a cherished classic in the realm of soul and R&B music.
6. Let Me In Your Life
“Let Me in Your Life” is a soul song by Bill Withers from his album of the same name, released in 1974. The song features Withers’ soulful vocals accompanied by a gentle and melodic arrangement.
In “Let Me in Your Life,” Withers sings about yearning for emotional intimacy and connection with a loved one. The lyrics express a desire to be invited into the other person’s life and to share in their joys and sorrows. Withers’ heartfelt delivery and the song’s poignant melody evoke a sense of vulnerability and longing.
“Let Me in Your Life” is praised for its emotional depth and sincerity, showcasing Withers’ ability to convey complex emotions through his music. The song remains a standout track in Withers’ discography, beloved by fans for its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and longing.
7. Grandma’s Hands
“Grandma’s Hands” is a soul song written and performed by Bill Withers, released in 1971 as part of his debut album “Just As I Am.”
The song is a heartfelt tribute to Withers’ grandmother and the impact she had on his life. Withers sings about the warmth, love, and wisdom he received from his grandmother’s hands, which provided comfort and guidance throughout his life.
“Grandma’s Hands” is characterized by its soulful melody, simple yet powerful lyrics, and Withers’ emotive vocals. The song resonated with audiences for its universal themes of family, love, and nostalgia, and it became one of Withers’ most enduring and beloved songs.
Over the years, “Grandma’s Hands” has been covered by various artists and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its timeless message and heartfelt sentiment continue to touch the hearts of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of soul music.
8. The Same Love That Made Me Laugh
“The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” is a soul song by Bill Withers. It was released in 1974 as a track on his album “+’Justments.”
The song explores themes of love, vulnerability, and the complexities of human relationships. Withers’ smooth vocals convey a mixture of emotions, including affection, longing, and resignation. The lyrics reflect on the paradoxical nature of love, acknowledging both its joys and its pains.
“The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” showcases Withers’ talent for crafting soulful melodies and insightful lyrics that resonate with listeners. The song has become a favorite among fans of Withers’ music and is celebrated for its timeless appeal and emotional depth.
9. Oh Yeah
“Oh Yeah” is a song by Bill Withers from his album “Making Music,” released in 1975. The track “Oh Yeah” showcases Withers’ signature soulful vocals and incorporates elements of funk and R&B. Withers’ smooth delivery and emotive performance contribute to the song’s laid-back and groovy vibe. “Oh Yeah” is often praised for its catchy melody and infectious rhythm, making it a standout track in Withers’ discography.
10. Lonely Town, Lonely Street
“Lonely Town, Lonely Street” is a soul song by American singer-songwriter Bill Withers. It was released in 1972 as a track on his album “Still Bill.”
The song paints a vivid picture of urban loneliness and isolation, with Withers’ soulful vocals expressing the feelings of alienation and disconnection experienced by those living in a bustling city. The lyrics depict the struggles of everyday life and the longing for human connection amidst the impersonal surroundings of the city streets.
With its smooth groove, emotive delivery, and poignant lyrics, “Lonely Town, Lonely Street” exemplifies Withers’ ability to capture the essence of the human experience in his music. The song has since become a fan favorite and a classic of the soul genre, celebrated for its timeless appeal and universal themes of loneliness and longing.
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.
