About the song
**I Got a Woman** is a timeless classic that has been performed and interpreted countless times over the years. However, few versions can match the raw emotion and soulfulness of Ray Charles’ 1986 rendition. This iconic recording, often considered the definitive version of the song, showcases Charles’ extraordinary vocal abilities and his unique blend of blues, jazz, and gospel influences.
The song’s origins can be traced back to the early 1950s when it was first recorded by Charles’ band, the Ray Charles Singers. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the song gained widespread recognition and popularity. Charles’ 1986 version, released as part of his album *Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music,* was a critical and commercial success.
The song’s lyrics tell a poignant story of love, loss, and longing. The protagonist expresses his deep affection for his woman and his pain at being separated from her. Charles’ soulful vocals convey the raw emotion and vulnerability of the lyrics, making the song instantly relatable to listeners. The arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a driving rhythm and a catchy melody that complements Charles’ powerful voice.
One of the most striking aspects of Charles’ performance is his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his singing. His voice can be tender and vulnerable, or it can be filled with raw passion and intensity. In “I Got a Woman,” Charles effortlessly transitions between these different emotional states, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Moreover, Charles’ unique blend of musical genres adds depth and complexity to the song. His gospel-inspired vocals and the bluesy undertones of the arrangement give the song a timeless quality that has resonated with audiences for decades.
In conclusion, Ray Charles’ 1986 version of “I Got a Woman” is a masterpiece of songwriting and performance. The song’s timeless lyrics, combined with Charles’ soulful vocals and the powerful arrangement, make it a classic that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
Well
I got a woman, way over town
That’s good to me, oh yeah
Say, I got a woman, way over town
Good to me, oh yeah
She give me money when I’m in need
Yeah, she’s a kind of friend indeed
I got a woman, way over town
That’s good to me, oh yeah
She saves her lovin’, early in the morning
Just for me, oh yeah
She saves her lovin’, early in the morning
Just for me, oh yeah
She saves her lovin’, just for me
Ah, she love me so tenderly
I got a woman, way over town
That’s good to me, oh yeah
She’s there to love me
Both day and night
Never grumbles or fusses
Always treats me right
Never runnin’ in the streets
And leavin’ me alone
She knows a woman’s place
Is right there now in her home
I got a woman, way over town
That’s good to me, oh yeah
Say, I got a woman, way over town
That’s good to me, oh yeah
Oh, she’s my baby
Oh, don’t you understand?
Yeah, and I’m her lover man
I got a woman, way over town
That’s good to me, oh yeah
Oh, don’t you know she’s alright
Oh, don’t you know she’s alright
She’s alright, she’s alright
Whoa yeah, oh yeah