Bill Withers was an American singer-songwriter 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 was best known for his hits in the 1970s, including “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Lean on Me,” “Lovely Day,” and “Use Me.”
Withers’ music often reflected his life experiences and resonated with listeners due to its relatability and emotional depth. His soulful voice, coupled with his ability to blend elements of soul, R&B, and folk, set him apart as a unique voice in the music industry. Withers’ songs have remained popular and have been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing his legacy as one of the greats of soul music.
1. Lovely Day
“Lovely Day” is a classic soul song by Bill Withers, released in 1977. The song is known for its uplifting lyrics and catchy melody, as well as Withers’ soulful vocals. “Lovely Day” is a celebration of life and positivity, with lyrics that express gratitude for the simple joys of everyday life.
One of the most distinctive features of “Lovely Day” is Withers’ sustained note on the word “day” near the end of the song, which lasts for over 18 seconds on the original recording. This note has become iconic and is often cited as one of the longest held notes in popular music.
“Lovely Day” has remained a popular song and has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its timeless message of finding joy in life’s simple pleasures continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
2. Use Me
“Use Me” is a soulful funk song by Bill Withers, released in 1972 as part of his album “Still Bill.” With its irresistible groove, infectious rhythm, and Withers’ smooth vocals, “Use Me” became one of his most iconic hits. The song’s lyrics explore themes of dependence and manipulation in a relationship, as the protagonist confronts their partner’s exploitation of their love and generosity. Despite the song’s darker subject matter, its upbeat tempo and funky instrumentation create an irresistible vibe that invites listeners to groove along. “Use Me” remains a timeless classic in Withers’ discography, celebrated for its funky groove, soulful delivery, and candid lyricism.
3. Just The Two Of Us
“Just the Two of Us” is a song by Bill Withers, featuring Grover Washington Jr., from Withers’ 1981 album “Watching You Watching Me.” The song is a soulful R&B track with smooth jazz influences. It is a romantic ballad that celebrates love and companionship, with lyrics that describe the joy of spending time with a loved one.
“Just the Two of Us” was a major hit for Withers, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success was helped by Washington’s smooth saxophone playing, which added a melodic and soulful element to the track. “Just the Two of Us” has since become one of Withers’ most popular songs and is considered a classic of 1980s R&B music.
4. Ain’t No Sunshine
“Ain’t No Sunshine” is a soulful classic by Bill Withers, released in 1971 as part of his debut album “Just As I Am.” With its haunting melody, sparse arrangement, and Withers’ emotive vocals, the song became one of his most iconic hits. “Ain’t No Sunshine” features a simple yet powerful lyricism, with the repetition of the phrase “I know” conveying a sense of longing and resignation. The song’s poignant lyrics explore the feelings of emptiness and loneliness that accompany the absence of a loved one. With its timeless appeal and universal themes, “Ain’t No Sunshine” has become a staple of soul music and a beloved favorite among music fans around the world.
5. Lean On Me
“Lean On Me” is a soulful and uplifting song by Bill Withers, released in 1972 as part of his album “Still Bill.” With its timeless melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Withers’ soulful vocals, the song has become one of his most enduring and beloved hits. “Lean On Me” conveys a message of friendship, support, and solidarity, encouraging listeners to reach out to one another in times of need. The song’s simple yet powerful chorus, “Lean on me, when you’re not strong, and I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on,” has resonated with audiences for decades, becoming a universal anthem of compassion and empathy. With its timeless message of unity and Withers’ soul-stirring delivery, “Lean On Me” remains a classic in the realm of soul music, inspiring generations with its message of strength through solidarity.
6. Let Me In Your Life
“Let Me in Your Life” is a song by Bill Withers from his 1974 album of the same name. The song is a soulful ballad with heartfelt lyrics about longing for love and connection. Withers’ smooth vocals and the song’s gentle melody create a poignant and emotional listening experience.
“Let Me in Your Life” showcases Withers’ ability to convey deep emotions through his music. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal desire for love and companionship, making it a relatable and touching song for many listeners. With its soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics, “Let Me in Your Life” is considered one of Withers’ standout tracks and is a favorite among fans of his music.
7. Grandma’s Hands
“Grandma’s Hands” is a poignant and heartfelt song by Bill Withers, released in 1971 as part of his debut album “Just As I Am.” With its soulful melody and Withers’ emotive vocals, the song pays tribute to the nurturing and comforting presence of a grandmother’s hands. “Grandma’s Hands” celebrates the love, wisdom, and resilience embodied by Withers’ grandmother, as well as the profound impact she had on his life. The song’s lyrics evoke vivid imagery of the hands that cared for him, providing guidance, solace, and unconditional love. With its timeless message of familial love and Withers’ soul-stirring delivery, “Grandma’s Hands” has resonated with listeners for generations, becoming a cherished classic in Withers’ repertoire.
8. The Same Love That Made Me Laugh
“The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” is a song by Bill Withers from his 1974 album “+’Justments.” The song is a soulful ballad with a bluesy feel, featuring Withers’ signature smooth vocals and introspective lyrics. The lyrics reflect on the complexities of love, acknowledging that the same love that brings joy can also bring pain and sorrow.
Withers’ heartfelt delivery and the song’s soulful melody create a powerful emotional impact. “The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” is often praised for its honest portrayal of love’s ups and downs, and it has become a fan favorite in Withers’ discography. The song’s timeless message continues to resonate with listeners, making it a classic of 1970s soul music.
9. Oh Yeah
“Oh Yeah” is a song by the Swiss band Yello, released in 1985. With its distinctive electronic beat, repetitive vocal samples, and catchy melody, “Oh Yeah” became one of the band’s most iconic hits. The song gained further popularity when it was featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, contributing to its status as a pop culture staple. “Oh Yeah” is characterized by its infectious groove and playful energy, making it a favorite among fans of electronic and dance music. Its memorable hook and distinctive sound have cemented its place as one of the most recognizable songs of the 1980s.
10. Lonely Town, Lonely Street
“Lonely Town, Lonely Street” is a song by Bill Withers from his 1972 album “Still Bill.” The song is a soulful track with a bluesy feel, featuring Withers’ smooth vocals and introspective lyrics. The lyrics describe the experience of feeling lonely and isolated in a bustling city, reflecting on the challenges of urban life.
Withers’ soulful delivery and the song’s laid-back groove create a melancholic yet captivating mood. “Lonely Town, Lonely Street” is praised for its emotive lyrics and Withers’ ability to convey deep emotions through his music. The song has become a fan favorite and is considered one of the standout tracks on the “Still Bill” album.
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.
