Since he’s been on my mind, lately, I’ve been listening to some James Jamerson recordings. A particular song by Stevie Wonder, ironically titled “Everytime I See You I Go Wild,” has had my repeat button lodged in the on position. I am assuming that this is a Jamerson recording, something tells it may be a Bob Babbit track. Someone please correct me if I am wrong.
It is not a super-famous track, though I think it is well known. The bass hook is nothing spectacular by Motown standards, and it reminds me of a simplified version of “Bernadette” by the Four Tops. For some reason though, this cut has grabbed ahold of me and I can’t shake it loose. The thing that I enjoy about this song (and a lot of Stevie’s early Motown work) is that it appeals to both the “dancers” and the “listeners.” There is something for everyone in these tunes. The contrast in complexity between the verse and the chorus sections is stark. The verse is as basic as it gets, one chord over and over again with James laying down a really solid foundation (a la “Shotgun”). When the chorus hits, you are on a rollercoaster ride through some pretty complex Jazz-inspired changes, but the groove stays solid and ferocious.
This song is too overwhelmingly soulful for a blind kid singing about “seeing” his sweetheart. I think he’s seeing God.
I don’t know what the legal ramifications of me uploading the entire song to my website will be, but here it is. And here’s a link to where you can purchase the CD on Amazon
That track is Jamerson - not Babbitt.
great
Man, fuck that shit……Motown is dead. Michael Jackson is a total nutjob….all the Funk brothers are dying and Stevie Wonder sucks at life. Post the song for those who haven’t heard it. Let us not forget the legacy of great music these musicians have left us!
Tom. I revised the post. The mp3 is now available.. see you in jail.
Have I misunderstood something here of has someone bit Tom in the leg?
Every generation has great musicians and that generation had the best! We wouldn’t have the music we have today without those people…they went places with melodies that no one else dared to go and opened doors for everyone else to continue to travel.
Hmmm….I hope I misunderstood, Tom, or that if you got bit in the leg and you’re in pain that you’ll soon be well.
Tom didn’t make himself clear, but I knew what he was talking about.