Al Green

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I started to write this song about you
And then I decided that I would write it all about love
And it appeared to me
That you wasn't happy
And that's for sure, positively
That's what the world is made of

[Chorus]
So give me more L-O-V-E, love (Love)
Love is a walk down Main street (Oh love)
Love is an apple that is so sweet (Love)
Love is something that can't be beat (Love)
L-O-V-E is strange to me, Lord

[Verse 2]
I can't explain this feeling
Can't you see that salvation is freeing
It's all in the heavens, can't you see
You can always depend on me

[Chorus]
To give you love (Love)
Love is a flower in my soul (Oh love)
Love is a story that just can't be told (Love)
Can't you feel it burning more and more? (Love)
Stop and look at the big wheel roll
[Verse 3]
I can't explain this feeling
Can't you see that salvation is freeing
I would give my life for the glory
Just to be able to tell the story
About love

[Bridge]
I didn't mean to make you mad
A sweet story, I thought I had
But maybe time will bring us together
And I can be such a happy fella

[Outro]
About love
Love is something that is so divine (Oh love)
Love is a feeling that's a friend of mine (Love)
It can't be measured by no sign (Love)
In your heart or even in your mind, you gotta (Love)
About love, Love is as bright as the morning sun (Oh love)
Where it is, I don't how far, no (Love)

If there was ever a song that embodied the meaning of love, it would have to be L-O-V-E (Love) by Al Green. A timeless classic that has stood the test of time for over four decades, this song continues to touch the hearts of millions around the world with its sweet melody, soulful lyrics and the iconic voice of Al Green.

About L-O-V-E (Love)

Released in 1975 as a single, L-O-V-E (Love) quickly ascended the charts and became one of Al Green's most popular songs. The song was written by Al Green himself along with producer Willie Mitchell and guitarist Mabon "Teenie" Hodges.

Right from the opening notes, the winding guitar riff sets the tone for the song, creating a mystical and enigmatic atmosphere. When Al Green enters with his famous falsetto, the effect is nothing less than mesmerizing. The song is a perfect example of his signature combination of R&B, soul, and gospel music, a blend that helped shape the sound of the 60s and 70s.

The lyrics of L-O-V-E (Love) are simple yet profound, with Al Green delivering each line with an unwavering sincerity and conviction. The song talks about the joys and pains of love, a universal feeling that everyone can relate to. The song celebrates the beauty of love and the intimacy it creates, with lines like "You're all I need to get by, baby" and "You're the answer to my dreams."

But it's not all sunshine and roses, as the song acknowledges the struggles and sacrifices that come with true love. One of the most poignant lines of the song comes in the chorus, where Green sings, "L-O-V-E, it's a mystery / Where you find it, it can't be bought." This line encapsulates the enigmatic nature of love, how it can bring us endless joy one minute and heartbreak the next.

L-O-V-E (Love) is a masterclass in musical arrangement, with Willie Mitchell's production providing a lush and layered backdrop for Al Green's voice to soar over. From the subtle horns to the sweeping strings to the soulful backing vocals, every element of the song is perfectly balanced, creating a sonic landscape that transports the listener to another place and time.

The song has been covered numerous times by various artists, most notably by Joss Stone and Michael Bublé, among others. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of a timeless melody and a universal message.

Perplexity and Burstiness

What makes L-O-V-E (Love) such a unique listening experience is its ability to evoke a range of emotions from the listener. The winding guitar and soulful vocals create an atmosphere of mystery and wonder, drawing the listener in and immersing them in the song's message of love. The lyrics are simple yet profound, with each line delivering a powerful message about the joys and pain of love. Al Green's voice, with his soaring falsetto and soulful inflections, is nothing less than electrifying, making every note feel like a revelation.

In terms of burstiness, L-O-V-E (Love) is an excellent example of a song that builds to a powerful crescendo, with every element of the song coming together in a glorious whole. From the subtle guitar licks to the soaring strings to the soulful backing vocals, every moment of the song is carefully crafted to create a sense of momentum and energy that culminates in the unforgettable chorus.

Bottom Line

L-O-V-E (Love) is a timeless classic that will continue to touch the hearts of music lovers around the world for generations to come. With its soulful vocals, lush musical arrangement, and universal message of love, the song is a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend time and space.

Whether you're a lifelong fan of Al Green or discovering the song for the first time, L-O-V-E (Love) is a must-listen that will leave you feeling inspired, uplifted, and filled with a sense of wonder and awe.

• Release Date: 1975
• Artist: Al Green