About the song
**Introduction to “Lovely Day”**
“Lovely Day” is a timeless soul and R&B classic by American singer Bill Withers that continues to resonate decades after its initial release. The song, co-written by Withers and Skip Scarborough, made its debut on December 21, 1977, as part of Withers’s sixth studio album, *Menagerie*. Known for its uplifting melody and soothing lyrics, “Lovely Day” has cemented its place in music history as a quintessential example of soul’s enduring appeal.
From the moment it was released, “Lovely Day” struck a chord with listeners. The track reached number 6 on the Billboard R&B chart and climbed to number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1978. Its success wasn’t limited to the United States; the song also made a significant impact in the United Kingdom, peaking at number seven on the UK Singles Chart.
One of the standout features of “Lovely Day” is Withers’s remarkable vocal performance, particularly his ability to hold a sustained note for an impressive 18 seconds towards the end of the song. This achievement remains one of the longest sustained notes ever recorded in a Top 40 hit in the United States. This breath-taking vocal feat underscores the song’s serene and hopeful tone, capturing the essence of its message perfectly.
The song’s appeal has endured through various re-releases and remixes. In 1987, the original version saw a modest resurgence in the UK, reaching number 92 on the UK Singles Chart. A notable remix by Ben Liebrand, known as the “Sunshine Mix,” revitalized interest in the song in 1988, soaring to number four on the UK Singles Chart. This remix introduced “Lovely Day” to a new generation, enhancing its radio presence well into the 1990s.
The song has also been featured in numerous advertisements and media, including Tetley tea commercials in 1995, a Gap commercial directed by Hype Williams in 1999, and various other promotional campaigns. Its continued relevance was highlighted on January 20, 2021, when Demi Lovato performed “Lovely Day” as part of the “Celebrating America” broadcast following President Joe Biden’s inauguration, with notable backing vocals from Lin-Manuel Miranda and frontline healthcare workers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The original 1977 recording of “Lovely Day” was produced and arranged by Clarence McDonald, with Withers’s smooth vocals accompanied by a stellar lineup of musicians, including Ray Parker Jr. on guitar, Jerry Knight on bass, and Russ Kunkel on drums. This ensemble crafted a song that not only showcases Withers’s exceptional talent but also stands as a testament to the timeless power of soulful music.
“Lovely Day” remains a cherished piece of musical history, recognized for its enduring impact and the emotional resonance it continues to offer listeners. Its inclusion in Rolling Stone’s “Top 500 Best Songs of All Time” further solidifies its legacy as a classic that continues to inspire and uplift.
Video
Lyrics
When I wake up in the morning, love
And the sunlight hurts my eyes
And something without warning, love
Bears heavy on my mind
Then I look at you
And the world’s alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it’s gonna be
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
When the day that lies ahead of me
Seems impossible to face
When someone else instead of me
Always seems to know the way
Then I look at you
And the world’s alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it’s gonna be
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
When the day that lies ahead of me
Seems impossible to face
And when someone else instead of me
Always seems to know the way
Then I look at you
And the world’s alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it’s gonna be
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
A lovely day (lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)
(Lovely day, lovely day, lovely day)