About the song
Bill Withers’s “Ain’t No Sunshine” is a timeless soul classic that resonates with its haunting melody and raw emotion. Released in 1971 as part of his debut album “Just As I Am,” the song quickly became a signature piece for Withers, showcasing his soulful voice and introspective songwriting.
Written by Bill Withers himself, “Ain’t No Sunshine” delves into the theme of heartache and longing. Its lyrics poignantly express the emptiness felt when separated from a loved one, with the refrain “Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone” capturing the profound sadness of loss and absence.
Upon its release, “Ain’t No Sunshine” achieved significant success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its impact was fueled by Withers’s soulful delivery, the song’s minimalist arrangement featuring sparse guitar and strings, and its relatable theme of love and loneliness.
The song’s enduring popularity has been underscored by its frequent use in films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic in popular culture. Its emotional depth and evocative lyrics continue to resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a staple on oldies radio stations and music playlists.
Bill Withers’s ability to convey profound emotion through his music, combined with “Ain’t No Sunshine”‘s timeless appeal, ensures its place as one of the most iconic soul songs of all time. Its inclusion in music compilations and its ongoing popularity on streaming platforms highlight its enduring legacy and lasting impact on the music industry.
Decades after its release, “Ain’t No Sunshine” remains a poignant reminder of Bill Withers’s talent as a singer-songwriter and his ability to capture the complexities of human emotion in his music. Its soul-stirring melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide, cementing its place as a classic that will be cherished for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
It’s not warm when she’s away
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
And she’s always gone too long
Anytime she’s goes away
Wonder this time where she’s gone
Wonder if she’s gone to stay
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
And this house just ain’t no home
Anytime she goes away
And I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know
I know, I know
Hey, I ought to leave young thing alone
But ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone, whoa-whoa
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
Only darkness every day
Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone
And this house just ain’t no home
Anytime she goes away
Anytime she goes away
Anytime she goes away
Anytime she goes away