The Average White Band (AWB) stands as a beacon of funk and soul from the 1970s, delivering infectious grooves and sophisticated musicianship. Among their impressive catalog of songs, “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” shines as a testament to their ability to blend soulful melodies with their signature funk edge. Originally conceived by the songwriting duo of Leon Ware and Pam Sawyer, and first brought to life by Quincy Jones, AWB transformed this song into a funk anthem that resonated with audiences and remains a highlight of their discography.
The Genesis of a Soul Classic: Ware, Sawyer, and Quincy Jones
Before the Average White Band put their distinctive stamp on it, “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” emerged from the creative minds of Leon Ware and Pam Sawyer. Ware, a Motown legend known for his songwriting and production work with artists like Marvin Gaye, and Sawyer, a prolific songwriter also with Motown roots, crafted a song imbued with heartfelt emotion and a yearning for something precious.
Quincy Jones, the legendary producer and composer, first recorded “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” for his 1974 album Body Heat. His version, featuring Leon Ware himself alongside vocal luminaries Al Jarreau and Minnie Riperton, established the song’s soulful foundation. While Jones’ rendition leaned into a smoother, slinky groove, it hinted at the song’s potential for a more dynamic interpretation.
Average White Band’s Funk Infusion: Taking “Heaven” to New Heights
In 1975, the Average White Band reimagined “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” for their album Cut the Cake. This album was created during a particularly challenging period for the band, as they were grappling with the tragic loss of their drummer, Robbie McIntosh. Despite the somber atmosphere, AWB channeled their emotions into their music, producing an album that topped the R&B charts and reached the top 5 on the pop charts.
AWB’s version of “If I Ever Lose This Heaven” injected a potent dose of funk energy into the song. They amplified the rhythm, tightened the groove, and delivered a performance that was both soulful and irresistibly funky. While not their biggest chart success, reaching #39 on the US pop chart and #25 on the R&B chart as a single, the AWB version became a beloved track for fans and a staple in their live performances.
“Cut the Cake” and AWB’s Enduring Legacy
Cut the Cake stands as a pivotal album in the Average White Band’s career. Its success, achieved in the face of adversity, solidified their position as leading figures in the funk and soul scene. While AWB continued to create music for many years, Cut the Cake marked a peak in their commercial success and remains a testament to their resilience and musical prowess.
“If I Ever Lose This Heaven” within the context of Average White Band Songs is a prime example of their artistry. They took a beautifully crafted soul song and transformed it into something uniquely their own, showcasing their instrumental virtuosity and their deep understanding of funk rhythms. It’s a track that deserves its place among the essential Average White Band songs, demonstrating their ability to elevate and innovate within the landscape of soul and funk music.
