Percy Sledge – When a Man Loves a Woman – 1966

About The Song

“Percy Sledge – When a Man Loves a Woman – 1966” is a classic soul ballad that became one of the most iconic love songs of its time. Here are five facts about the song:

1. Release Date: “When a Man Loves a Woman” was released in 1966 and quickly became a chart-topping hit. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B singles charts.
2. Signature Song: Percy Sledge’s rendition of the song is considered his signature piece. His emotive and powerful delivery of the lyrics contributed significantly to the song’s enduring popularity.
3. Songwriting Credits: The song was co-written by Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright. The duo, who were members of the Esquires, penned the emotional lyrics that convey the intense feelings of love and heartbreak.
4. Recording Impact: The recording features a distinctive horn section that adds to the song’s soulful sound. The arrangement, combined with Sledge’s soul-stirring vocals, created a timeless and memorable piece of music.
5. Cultural Impact: “When a Man Loves a Woman” has been widely covered and used in various forms of media over the years. Its emotional resonance has made it a classic not only in the realm of soul music but also in the broader landscape of popular music.

Video

Lyrics

When a man loves a woman
Can’t keep his mind on nothin’ else
He’d trade the world
For the good thing he’s found

If she is bad, he can’t see it
She can do no wrong
And turn his back on his best friend
If he puts her down

When a man loves a woman
Spend his very last dime
And trying to hold on to what he needs
He’d give up all his comforts

And sleep out in the rain
If she said that’s the way, it ought to be
When a man loves a woman

I give you everything I’ve got
Trying to hold on to your precious love
And baby baby please don’t treat me bad
When a man loves a woman
Deep down in his soul

She can bring him such misery
If she is playing him for a fool
He’s the last one to know
Loving eyes can never see
Yes when a man loves a woman
I know exactly how he feels

‘Cause baby, baby
When a man loves a woman
When a man loves a woman
When a man loves a woman
When a man, when a man
When a man loves a woman