About the song
“The Closer I Get to You” is a quintessential romantic ballad that captures the deep emotional connection between two of soul music’s most revered artists, Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway. Released in 1978 as part of Flack’s acclaimed album *Blue Lights in the Basement*, the song was crafted by the talented duo of James Mtume and Reggie Lucas, former members of Miles Davis’s band. Initially intended as a solo piece, the song’s evolution into a duet came about through the suggestion of Flack’s manager, David Franklin. This decision would turn out to be pivotal in the song’s journey to becoming a crossover hit.
The collaboration between Flack and Hathaway is marked by its profound tenderness and emotional depth, characteristics that are evident in the song’s rich, soulful melody and poignant lyrics. Despite Hathaway’s struggles with severe depression during the recording period, which at times rendered him unable to travel from Chicago to New York for studio sessions, the duo’s chemistry shines through. Hathaway’s contribution was recorded separately and later integrated into the final mix, a testament to both the song’s emotional power and the resilience of its artists.
Upon its release, “The Closer I Get to You” quickly captured the hearts of listeners, reaching number one on the Hot Soul Singles chart and climbing to number two on the Billboard Hot 100. It also achieved notable success in Canada and France, reflecting its wide-reaching appeal. The song was certified gold in the United States in May 1978, underscoring its commercial success and enduring popularity.
The critical reception of “The Closer I Get to You” was overwhelmingly positive. Critics lauded it as one of Flack’s finest performances, describing it as “ethereal” and “intimate.” The song’s placement at number 40 on Billboard’s list of “The 40 Biggest Duets Of All Time” highlights its lasting impact on the genre. Additionally, its nomination for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus attests to its artistic excellence, even though it ultimately lost to the Bee Gees.
Beyond its commercial and critical success, “The Closer I Get to You” holds a special place in music history as a touching tribute to Hathaway, who passed away before the song’s release. Flack dedicated the song to Hathaway, promising that proceeds would support his family. The music video, directed by Flack, poignantly features Hathaway’s image and emphasizes the emotional resonance of their collaboration.
In sum, “The Closer I Get to You” remains a celebrated classic in soul music, emblematic of the depth and beauty that characterized Flack and Hathaway’s work together. Its enduring appeal continues to resonate with audiences, affirming its status as a timeless romantic duet.
Video
Lyrics
The closer I get to you
The more you make me see
By giving me all you’ve got
Your love has captured meOver and over again
I tried to tell myself that we
Could never be more than friends
And all the while inside
I knew it was real
The way you make me feelLying here next to you
Time just seems to fly
Needing you more and more
Let’s give love a tryOoooh-ooh-ooh, whoa-oooooh
Sweeter and sweeter love grows
And Heaven’s there for those
Who fooled the tricks of time
With the hearts of love they find
True love in a special wayThe closer I get to you
The more you make me see
By giving me all you’ve got
Your love has captured meOver and over again
I tried to tell myself that we
Could never be more than friends
And all the while inside I knew it was real
The way you make me feelThe closer I get to you
The more you make me see
By giving you all you’ve got
Your love has captured meThe closer I get to you
The feeling comes over me, me too
Pulling closer sweet as the gravity