Sister Sledge – We Are Family [1979]

About the song

Released on January 22, 1979, **”We Are Family”** is the third studio album by the American R&B vocal group Sister Sledge. This landmark record, produced and written by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of the renowned band Chic, quickly became a defining moment in the disco era. The album was a major commercial success, reaching number one on the Top R&B Albums chart and peaking at number three on the Billboard 200, establishing it as Sister Sledge’s most commercially successful release.

The album includes four standout singles that have endured through decades of musical evolution: the title track “We Are Family,” “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” “Lost in Music,” and “Thinking of You.” Each of these tracks has been sampled, remixed, and reissued numerous times, reflecting their lasting impact on the music industry. “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” the album’s lead single, was particularly noteworthy, marking Sister Sledge’s breakthrough into mainstream success with its top 10 position on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the R&B chart.

The collaboration between Sister Sledge and Chic was inspired by Atlantic Records president Jerry L. Greenberg, who saw the potential for a groundbreaking partnership. Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards crafted the album based on their impressions of the group conveyed by Greenberg, despite not having met the sisters in person prior to the recording sessions. This album remains a testament to their visionary approach to music production.

In 2013, **”We Are Family”** was celebrated by NME as one of the 500 greatest albums of all time, further cementing its place in musical history. The album’s influence continues to be felt, as its tracks have been digitally remastered and reissued, ensuring that new generations can experience its vibrant energy. For many, this album is not just a collection of songs but a celebration of unity and joy, embodying the spirit of the disco era and the timeless appeal of Sister Sledge.

Video

Lyrics

e are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Everyone can see we’re together
As we walk on by
(And) and we fly just like birds of a feather
I won’t tell no lie

(All) all of the people around us they say
Can they be that close
Just let me state for the record
We’re giving love in a family dose

We are family (Hey, y’all)
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing (sing it to me)

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Living life is fun and we’ve just begun
To get our share of this world’s delights
(High) high hopes we have for the future
And our goal’s in sight

(We) no, we don’t get depressed
Here’s what we call our golden rule
Have faith in you and the things you do
You won’t go wrong, oh no
This is our family jewel

We are family (hey, sing it to me)
I got all my sisters with me
We are family (oh, I can hear you now)
Get up everybody and sing

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family (get up, get up y’all)
Get up everybody and sing

We are family (I got all my sisters with me)
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing (Get up and sing it to me)

We are family