About the song
“Nightshift,” performed by the Commodores, is a soulful tribute that resonates deeply with fans of classic R&B and soul music. Released in 1985, the song marks a significant chapter in the band’s illustrious career. Written by Walter Orange, Dennis Lambert, and Franne Golde, “Nightshift” is part of the album of the same name and stands out as a poignant homage to two of the greatest soul singers, Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson, who both passed away in 1984.
The Commodores, originally formed in 1968, had already enjoyed significant success by the time “Nightshift” was released, thanks to hits like “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady,” and “Brick House.” However, “Nightshift” represented a new era for the band, as it was their first major hit after Lionel Richie left the group to pursue a solo career.
“Nightshift” quickly climbed the charts, earning a spot at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing the number one position on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. It also achieved international success, reaching the top ten in several countries. The heartfelt lyrics and smooth, melancholic melody capture the essence of late-night radio, where listeners could find solace and connection through music.
The song’s success was further cemented when it won a Grammy Award for Best Vocal R&B Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus in 1985. The Commodores’ ability to blend soulful harmonies with a reflective and emotional narrative in “Nightshift” showcases their versatility and enduring appeal. For fans old and new, “Nightshift” remains a timeless piece that honors the legacies of Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson while underscoring the Commodores’ significant place in the history of soul music.
Video
Lyrics
Marvin
He was a friend of mine
And he could sing his song
His heart in every line
Marvin
Sang of the joy and pain
He opened up our mind
And I still can hear him say
“Oh, talk to me
So you can see what’s goin’ on”
Say you will sing your songs
For evermore, evermore
Gonna be some sweet sounds
Coming down on the nightshift
I bet you’re singing proud
Oh, I bet you’ll pull a crowd
Gonna be a long night
It’s gonna be all right
On the nightshift
You found another home
I know you’re not alone
On the nightshift, oh
You found another home
I know you’re not alone
On the nightshift
Jackie
Mmm, hey, what you doing now?
It seems like yesterday
When we were workin’ out
Jackie
Whoa, you set the world on fire
You came and gifted us
Your love it lifted us higher and higher
Keep it up
And we’ll be there at your side
Oh-oh-oh, say you will
Sing your songs for evermore, evermore
Gonna be some sweet sounds
Comin’ down on the nightshift
I bet you’re singing proud
Ooh, I bet you’ll pull a crowd
Gonna be a long night (gonna be a long night)
It’s gonna be all right on the nightshift
You found another home
I know you’re not alone
On the nightshift
Gonna be some sweet sounds (sweet sounds)
Comin’ down on the nightshift (whoa, on the nightshift)
I bet you’re singing proud (I know you’re singing proud)
Ooh, I bet you’ll pull a crowd (oh, yeah)
Gonna be a long night (gonna be all right)
It’s gonna be all right on the nightshift (on the nightshift)
You found another home
I know you’re not alone
On the nightshift
Gonna miss your sweet voice (sweet)
That soulful noise (soulful noise)
On the nightshift (nightshift, on the nightshift)
We all remember you (remember you, remember you)
Ooh, your songs are comin’ through
At the end of a long day (a long day)
It’s gonna be okay (okay)
On the nightshift (nightshift)
You found another home
I know you’re not alone
On the nightshift
Gonna be some sweet sounds (sweet, sweet sounds)
Comin’ down (comin’ down)
On the nightshift (ooh, yeah)
I bet you’re singing proud