Al Green: Greatest Hits (1975 – Hi Records)
Al Green’s Greatest Hits is a compilation album with some of his most famous and beloved songs. Al Green is a soul singer who was popular in the 1970s. He is known for his smooth, powerful voice and ability to express deep emotions through his music. This album showcases some of his most famous songs, including “Let’s Stay Together,” “Love and Happiness,” and “Here I Am (Come and Take Me).”
Al Green was born in 1946 in Arkansas and grew up in a religious family. He began singing in his church choir and later formed a group called Al Greene & the Creations. He eventually dropped the “e” from his name and signed with Hi Records, where he recorded many of his most popular songs. Al Green’s band was made up of talented musicians who helped him create his distinctive sound, including drummer Al Jackson Jr. and guitarist Teenie Hodges.
Al Green’s music is often described as “soul” or “R&B,” combining gospel, blues, and pop elements. His songs are known for their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, which often explore love, heartbreak, and spirituality themes. Al Green’s music has had a lasting impact on popular culture, and many artists have been influenced by his style and sound.
Track List
- Tired of Being Alone – This song has a mellow and smooth sound with a slow tempo. Al Green’s voice is powerful and soulful, and the lyrics express a feeling of loneliness and longing. “Tired of Being Alone” was released in 1971 on Al Green’s album “Al Green Gets Next to You.”
- Call Me (Come Back Home) – This track has a catchy and upbeat melody, and Al Green’s vocals are full of energy and emotion. The lyrics express regret and the desire to make amends with a loved one. “Call Me (Come Back Home)” was released in 1973 on Al Green’s album “Call Me.”
- I’m Still in Love with You – This song has a slow and romantic feel, with Al Green’s voice conveying a deep passion and devotion. The lyrics express a feeling of being head-over-heels in love and wanting to stay that way forever. “I’m Still in Love with You” was released in 1972 on Al Green’s album of the same name.
- Here I Am (Come and Take Me) – This track has a funky and upbeat groove, with Al Green’s vocals displaying a mix of playfulness and sincerity. The lyrics express surrendering to love and being willing to take a chance on a new relationship. “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” was released in 1973 on Al Green’s album “Call Me.”
- Love and Happiness – This song has a catchy and upbeat rhythm, with Al Green’s voice radiating joy and positivity. The lyrics express a message of finding happiness by focusing on love and positive emotions. “Love and Happiness” was released in 1972 on Al Green’s album “I’m Still in Love with You.” It’s one of Al Green’s most popular and enduring songs and has been covered by many other artists.
- Let’s Stay Together – This is one of Al Green’s most iconic songs, with a smooth and soulful melody and Al Green’s vocals conveying a sense of tenderness and devotion. The lyrics express a desire to stay together through thick and thin, and it’s a classic love song. “Let’s Stay Together” was released in 1971 on Al Green’s album of the same name.
- Look What You Done for Me – This track has a catchy and upbeat melody, with Al Green’s vocals displaying a mix of gratitude and longing. The lyrics express a sense of appreciation for a lover who has brought joy and happiness to one’s life. “Look What You Done for Me” was released in 1972 on Al Green’s album “I’m Still in Love with You.”
- You Ought to Be with Me – This song has a smooth and romantic sound, with Al Green’s voice expressing a mix of confidence and vulnerability. The lyrics describe a desire to be with someone special, and it’s a classic love song with a timeless feel. “You Ought to Be with Me” was released in 1972 on Al Green’s album “Let’s Stay Together.”
- Livin’ for You – This track has a mellow and soulful sound, with Al Green’s vocals conveying a sense of contentment and satisfaction. The lyrics express a feeling of being in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest. “Livin’ for You” was released in 1973 on Al Green’s album of the same name.
- Let’s Get Married – This song has a fun and upbeat sound, with Al Green’s vocals expressing a sense of playfulness and excitement. The lyrics express a desire to take a relationship to the next level and commit to love and marriage. “Let’s Get Married” was released in 1974 on Al Green’s album “Al Green Explores Your Mind.” It’s a catchy and energetic track that will get you moving.
Final Notes…
Al Green was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 by fellow Hall of Famer Patti LaBelle. At the induction ceremony, Al Green performed some of his classic hits, including “Let’s Stay Together” and “Tired of Being Alone.”