Bill Withers was a soul music icon, renowned for his heartfelt lyrics and smooth, captivating voice. His songs resonated deeply with listeners, exploring themes of love, hope, and everyday life with raw honesty and profound emotion. For those looking to explore his incredible catalog, here are 10 essential Bill Withers Songs that showcase his genius and enduring appeal.
1. The Same Love That Made Me Laugh
Bill Withers performing The Same Love That Made Me Laugh, a soulful ballad about heartbreak.
Released as a single from his album +’Justments in 1974, “The Same Love That Made Me Laugh” is a poignant ballad that delves into the complexities of love and loss. Withers’ soulful delivery perfectly captures the bittersweet emotions of a relationship ending. The track’s universal themes of love and heartbreak helped it resonate with audiences, and it was notably covered by Diana Ross three years later, further solidifying its place in soul music history.
2. I Wish You Well
Bill Withers performing I Wish You Well, an upbeat soul and disco track from his album Making Music.
“I Wish You Well” is an often-underrated gem that opens Bill Withers’ 1975 album Making Music. This vibrant soul and disco infused number served as the lead single and, while considered a minor hit in the US at the time, it exemplifies Withers’ versatility. The track’s upbeat tempo and positive message showcase a different side of Withers’ artistry, proving his ability to move seamlessly between soulful ballads and more energetic grooves.
3. Harlem
Bill Withers performing Harlem live, the powerful opening track from his debut album Just as I Am.
Serving as the powerful opening track to his groundbreaking 1971 debut album Just as I Am, “Harlem” immediately announced Bill Withers’ arrival as a major talent. The song’s raw energy and evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of Harlem, capturing the spirit and resilience of the community. It’s a dynamic introduction to Withers’ artistry, showcasing his ability to blend social commentary with compelling musicality, instantly grabbing the attention of new listeners.
4. Use Me
Bill Withers singing Use Me, a number two hit song about a complex and unconventional relationship.
“Use Me” became a massive hit for Bill Withers in 1972, reaching number two on the charts and demonstrating his ability to tackle complex relationship dynamics in his music. The song explores a relationship where the singer acknowledges being “used” but embraces it nonetheless, defying conventional romantic notions. Later covered by Grace Jones in 1981, “Use Me” remains a testament to Withers’ willingness to explore unconventional themes and create songs that are both thought-provoking and deeply groovy.
5. Grandma’s Hands
Bill Withers performing Grandma's Hands, a deeply personal song about his grandmother produced by Booker T. Jones.
“Grandma’s Hands” is a deeply personal and touching song written by Bill Withers about his grandmother, Lula Galloway. Produced by the legendary Booker T. Jones, the song reflects on the nurturing presence of his grandmother and the profound impact she had on his life. Withers’ maternal grandfather’s history as someone born into slavery adds another layer of depth to this poignant tribute. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody resonated across generations, and it gained further recognition when it was famously sampled in Blackstreet’s ‘No Diggity’ in 1996, introducing it to a new audience.
6. Who Is He (And What Is He To You)?
Bill Withers performing Who Is He (And What Is He to You)?, an accusatory song about infidelity.
“Who Is He (And What Is He to You)?” showcases a different emotional landscape for Bill Withers, revealing a more angry and accusatory tone as he confronts suspected infidelity. The lyrics, sent to Withers by Stan McKenney, resonated with him instantly, sparking a powerful performance. This track, later featured in the Jackie Brown soundtrack, demonstrates Withers’ ability to convey a wide spectrum of emotions through his music, from tender love to raw suspicion and anger, making his songwriting incredibly relatable and human.
7. Just the Two of Us
Bill Withers in the official video for Just The Two Of Us, a collaboration with Grover Washington Jr.
A collaboration with jazz saxophonist Grover Washington Jr., “Just the Two of Us” became another number two hit for Bill Withers in 1981. This laid-back and romantic love song is characterized by its smooth melody and optimistic lyrics, celebrating the intimacy and joy of a loving relationship. Its universal appeal has led to numerous covers by various artists, most notably by Will Smith as a heartfelt tribute to his son, cementing its status as a timeless love anthem.
8. Lean on Me
Bill Withers performing Lean on Me live in Chicago in 1972, his first and only number one hit.
“Lean on Me” stands as Bill Withers’ first and only number one single on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the soul singles chart in the US. This iconic soul anthem, inspired by his childhood in the small coal-mining town of Slab Fork, West Virginia, embodies the spirit of community and support. Withers crafted the song while simply experimenting on a piano, and its powerful message of reliance and friendship continues to resonate globally, making it one of his most beloved and enduring songs.
9. Lovely Day
Bill Withers singing Lovely Day in 1988, a summer classic known for his 18-second sustained note.
Released in 1977, “Lovely Day” is the quintessential feel-good summer tune from Bill Withers. Celebrated for its infectious optimism and joyful melody, the song is also famous for Withers’ remarkable 18-second sustained note towards the end, one of the longest ever recorded in popular music. Adding to its appeal, ‘Ghostbusters’ star Ray Parker Jr. contributed guitar to the track, making “Lovely Day” a truly collaborative and uplifting musical experience.
10. Ain’t No Sunshine
Bill Withers performing Ain't No Sunshine, his Grammy-winning signature song produced by Booker T. Jones.
“Ain’t No Sunshine,” produced by Booker T. Jones and featuring Stephen Stills on guitar, is arguably Bill Withers’ signature song and a Grammy Award winner. Inspired by the 1962 film Days of Wine and Roses, Withers captured the feeling of longing and emptiness in the absence of a loved one. Initially intending to write more lyrics for the third verse, he wisely followed the advice of fellow musicians to keep the repetition of “I know” 26 times, creating an unforgettable and emotionally resonant moment in music history. This song remains a defining example of Withers’ soulful genius and his ability to convey profound emotions with simplicity and depth.
These ten songs are just a starting point for exploring the rich and rewarding discography of Bill Withers. Each track offers a glimpse into his unique perspective and his timeless ability to connect with listeners through music. Discover these and more to truly appreciate the legacy of a true musical icon.
