About the song
“Ain’t No Sunshine,” performed by the iconic Bill Withers, is one of those songs that effortlessly tugs at the heartstrings and remains etched in the memory of listeners. Released in 1971, this soulful track is part of Withers’ debut album, “Just As I Am,” which also features other notable songs that showcase his remarkable talent. The song was written by Bill Withers himself, who drew inspiration from his personal experiences and observations, capturing the profound sense of longing and sorrow that accompanies the absence of a loved one.
Bill Withers, known for his deep, resonant voice and simple yet powerful lyrical style, delivers an unforgettable performance in “Ain’t No Sunshine.” The song’s repetitive, haunting refrain, “I know, I know, I know, I know,” has become a signature element, reflecting the obsessive, almost meditative state of missing someone dearly. The minimalistic arrangement, featuring Booker T. Jones on the piano and Stephen Stills on guitar, perfectly complements Withers’ emotive vocals, allowing the raw emotion of the song to shine through.
Upon its release, “Ain’t No Sunshine” quickly rose to prominence, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success marked the beginning of Bill Withers’ illustrious career, earning him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song in 1972. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the timeless quality of Withers’ songwriting and performance.
Decades after its release, “Ain’t No Sunshine” remains a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists across various genres, each adding their own touch while preserving the original’s poignant essence. For many, the song evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and remains a poignant reminder of the power of music to convey complex emotions. Whether it’s the soulful voice of Bill Withers or the heartfelt lyrics that resonate with the listener, “Ain’t No Sunshine” continues to be a beacon of musical excellence and emotional depth.
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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