About the song
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes’ “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of soul music. Released in 1972, this track quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of the group’s most iconic hits. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics, soulful melody, and the powerful vocals of lead singer Teddy Pendergrass.
Penned by the legendary songwriting duo of Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” is a poignant ballad that explores the complexities of love and relationships. The lyrics, filled with longing and vulnerability, paint a vivid picture of a man deeply in love who yearns for a deeper connection with his partner. Pendergrass’s soulful delivery, combined with the group’s rich harmonies, elevates the song to new heights, making it a truly unforgettable listening experience.
The song’s arrangement is equally impressive. The combination of a steady, driving rhythm and lush strings creates a rich and textured soundscape that perfectly complements the emotional depth of the lyrics. The horns, which enter towards the end of the song, add a touch of grandeur and drama, further emphasizing the song’s emotional impact.
“If You Don’t Know Me By Now” has become a staple of classic soul music and has been covered by countless artists over the years. However, it’s the original version by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes that remains the definitive interpretation of the song. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the group’s talent and the timeless quality of the music.
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Lyrics
If you don’t know me by now
You will never never never know me (oh)
All the things that we’ve been through
You should understand me like I understand you
Now baby I know the difference between right and wrong
I ain’t gonna do nothing to upset our happy home
Oh don’t get so excited when I come home a little late at night
‘Cause we only act like children when we argue fuss and fight
If you don’t know me by now (if you don’t know me)
You will never never never know me (you’ll never, never know me)
If you don’t know me by now(if you don’t, if you don’t know me baby)
You will never never never know me(No you won’t)
We’ve all got our own funny moods
I’ve got mine, woman you’ve got yours too
Just trust in me like I trust in you
As long as we’ve been together it should be so easy to do
Just get yourself together or we might as well say goodbye
What good is a love affair when you can’t see eye to eye, oh
If you don’t know me by now (if you don’t, if you don’t know me baby)
You will never never never know me (hey hey, hey hey, hey hey)
If you don’t know me by now (you will never never never know me)
You will never never never know me (oh)
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