About the song
Bill Withers – Ain’t No Sunshine is one of the most iconic tracks in the history of soul music and a masterpiece that solidified Bill Withers as a legendary artist. Released in 1971 as part of his debut album Just As I Am, this timeless ballad captured audiences with its raw emotion and simple, yet powerful, lyrical composition. Written and sung by Withers himself, the song delves into themes of love, loss, and longing as it reflects on the pain of being apart from a loved one.
The song became a massive commercial success upon its release, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its success defied Withers’s status as a newcomer in the music industry, proving that his heartfelt songwriting and rich, soulful voice were exactly what listeners needed. Notably, the track features a repeating line—“I know”—which Withers sings 26 times consecutively, adding to its poignant and memorable nature.
Ain’t No Sunshine earned Bill Withers a Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Song in 1972, cementing its place as a classic in the R&B and soul genres. With its minimalistic arrangement, including acoustic guitar, light strings, and Withers’s deeply resonant voice, it continues to captivate audiences across generations. The track’s production by Booker T. Jones of Booker T. & the M.G.’s further elevated its standing as a standout soulful ballad.
Over the years, Ain’t No Sunshine has been covered by countless artists, from Michael Jackson to Paul McCartney, showcasing its enduring appeal and timeless relevance. Rolling Stone even included it in their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” With its combination of heartfelt emotion and universal relatability, Bill Withers – Ain’t No Sunshine remains a landmark piece of music history.
Video
Lyrics
updating