About the song
Released in 1974, “When Will I See You Again” by The Three Degrees remains an iconic track from the golden era of soul music. Featured on their third album, *The Three Degrees*, the song is a quintessential example of the “Philly Soul” sound, thanks to its expert crafting by renowned producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. The lead vocals, delivered by Sheila Ferguson, are complemented by the harmonious backing of Fayette Pinkney and Valerie Holiday, creating a captivating blend that exemplifies the group’s signature style.
The song’s unique structure, in which every line is framed as a question, enhances its emotional impact and depth. Despite initial reservations from Ferguson, who found the song’s simplicity somewhat insulting, it ultimately became a massive hit. Ferguson recalled a dramatic moment of resistance when Gamble first played the song for her in 1973, but in hindsight, she acknowledged Gamble’s superior judgment as the song achieved remarkable success. Her solo rendition of the track in 1994 also became a notable hit, further cementing the song’s legacy.
The chart performance of “When Will I See You Again” was impressive and multifaceted. In the United States, it peaked at number 2 on the pop singles chart, narrowly missing the top spot behind Carl Douglas’s “Kung Fu Fighting.” However, it soared to number 1 on the adult contemporary chart and secured a respectable number 4 on the R&B chart. The song’s success was not limited to the US; it also dominated the UK Singles Chart, where it spent two weeks at number 1 in August 1974.
The track’s acclaim was further highlighted when The Three Degrees performed it at Prince Charles’s 30th birthday party at Buckingham Palace in 1978, showcasing the song’s esteemed place in popular culture. The initial skepticism surrounding the song’s simplicity has been long overshadowed by its enduring appeal and significant impact on the soul music genre.
Video
Lyrics
Hoo, hah
Hah, hoo
Precious moments
When will I see you again?
When will we share precious moments?
Will I have to wait forever?
Will I have to suffer? (Suffer)
And cry the whole night through?
When will I see you again?
When will our hearts beat together?
Are we in love or just friends?
Is this my beginning or is this the end?
When will I see you again?
When will I see you again?
When will I see you again?
Hah, hoo
(Precious moments)
Are we in love or just friends?
Is this my beginning or is this the end? (Is this the end?)
When will I see you again?
When will I see you again?
When will I see you again?
Sweet, sweet love of mine
(When will I see you again?) Come on, come on
(When will I see you again?) Tell me when
(When will I see you again?) My sweet love, oh, yes
(When will I see you again?) Ooh, yeah