About the song
Released on May 8, 1962, “Bring It On Home to Me” by the legendary American soul singer Sam Cooke stands as a timeless classic that has significantly influenced the development of modern pop and soul music. Produced by Hugo & Luigi and arranged by René Hall, the song was originally the B-side to Cooke’s hit single “Having a Party.” Despite its secondary status, “Bring It On Home to Me” quickly became a standout track, achieving notable success by reaching number two on Billboard’s Hot R&B Sides chart and number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The origins of “Bring It On Home to Me” are deeply rooted in Cooke’s background in gospel music. The song, which is a profound reworking of Charles Brown and Amos Milburn’s 1959 single “I Want to Go Home,” retains the gospel flavor and call-and-response structure but introduces a secular twist that reflects Cooke’s transition into a more mainstream sound. The refrain, “Bring it to me, bring your sweet lovin’, bring it on home to me,” showcases Cooke’s ability to blend spiritual depth with popular music sensibilities, creating a powerful and emotive ballad.
The recording session for “Bring It On Home to Me” was held at RCA Studio 1 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, on April 26, 1962. The session was marked by its energetic and joyous atmosphere, with engineer Al Schmitt recalling the fun and lively environment created by the musicians and friends who gathered for the recording. René Hall orchestrated an eighteen-piece backing group that included violins, violas, cellos, saxophones, and a robust rhythm section featuring percussionists, bassists, guitars, and a piano. The arrangement contributed to the song’s rich, soulful sound, blending gospel roots with orchestral elegance.
Notably, the first take of the song featured vocals from Lou Rawls, J.W. Alexander, Fred Smith, and possibly the Sims Twins, though the final version prominently features Lou Rawls’ harmonies. This collaborative effort added to the song’s depth and authenticity, enhancing its emotional impact.
“Bring It On Home to Me” has since become a pop standard, covered by numerous artists across various genres, cementing its place in music history. The song is recognized by The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as one of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, a testament to its enduring influence and Sam Cooke’s profound impact on the music world. Its blend of gospel-inspired emotion and secular appeal ensures that “Bring It On Home to Me” remains a beloved classic, resonating with audiences across generations.
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Lyrics
If you ever change your mind
About leaving, leaving me behind
Baby, bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home to me
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
I know I laughed when you left
But now I know I only hurt myself
Baby, bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home to me
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
I’ll give you jewellery and money, too
That ain’t all, that ain’t all I’ll do for you
Oh, if you bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home to me
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
You know I’ll always be your slave
‘Til I’m buried, buried in my grave
Oh honey, bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home to me
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
One more thing
I tried to treat you right
But you stayed out, stayed out at night
But I forgive you, bring it to me
Bring your sweet loving
Bring it on home to me
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
Yeah (yeah) yeah