About the song
“Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I’ve Got)” stands as a soulful anthem penned by Dennis Lambert and Brian Potter, immortalized by the Four Tops on their 1973 album “Keeper of the Castle.” Released as a single under the ABC/Dunhill label, the song soared to number four on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts in April 1973, marking a pinnacle of success for the legendary vocal group post-Motown.
Originally recorded by Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds on their 1972 album “Hallway Symphony,” the song found its definitive rendition with the Four Tops, led by the incomparable voice of Levi Stubbs. Stubbs’ emotive lead vocals, complemented by Lawrence Payton, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, and Abdul “Duke” Fakir in the chorus, epitomized the heartfelt ode to a cherished relationship.
Critics hailed the song’s blend of pop and soul elements, with Billboard noting Stubbs’ commanding presence and the song’s moving arrangement, enhanced by mellow strings that lent it a soft, melodic quality. Record World echoed similar sentiments, praising Stubbs’ evocative delivery that sent “chills to the spine,” underscoring the enduring emotional impact of the song’s narrative.
Chart success quickly followed, with the single topping the Cash Box Top 100 and earning gold certification for its widespread popularity. In addition to its U.S. chart dominance, the song also made significant impact on the R&B charts, reaching number two, and became a beloved fixture on adult contemporary radio.
Beyond its original rendition by the Four Tops, “Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I’ve Got)” has inspired numerous cover versions by artists spanning various genres. These interpretations, ranging from soulful renditions to contemporary adaptations, underscore the song’s enduring influence and timeless appeal across generations.
Produced by Dennis Lambert, the song’s legacy extends further through cultural reinterpretations, notably in Jay-Z and Foxy Brown’s 1996 hit “Ain’t No Nigga,” showcasing its enduring relevance in the landscape of popular music.
In essence, “Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I’ve Got)” remains a testament to the enduring power of love songs and the vocal mastery of Levi Stubbs and the Four Tops, solidifying its place as a classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
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Lyrics
Every day the sun comes up around her.
She can make the birds sing harmony.
Every drop of rain is glad it found her.
Heaven must have made her just for me.
When she smiles so warm and tender,
A sight for sore eyes to see.
Oooh, (ain’t no woman like the one I’ve got.)
Oh, no, they don’t come better.
(To make her happy doesn’t take a lot.)
She don’t ask for things, no diamond rings.
(So together, like a hand in glove.)
Like pages in a letter.
(Ain’t no woman like the one I love.)
She can fill me up when it’s down I’m goin’ (I’m goin’).
Put a little music in my day.
Wouldn’t be surprised if my love keeps growin’ (it keeps growin’).
Bigger every minute that she stays away.
I would kiss the ground she walks on,
Cause it’s my word, my word she’ll obey, now.
Woo-ooh. (Ain’t no woman like the one I’ve got.)
Well, I kiss the ground she walks on.
(To make her happy doesn’t take a lot.)
She’s a real good friend right to the end.
(So together like a hand in glove.)
A lonely man when she’s gone.
(People, ain’t no woman like the one I love.)
Oooh. What a good, good thing I’ve got.
She means to me a lot.
No, no, they don’t come better.
(To make her happy doesn’t take a lot.)
She don’t ask for things, no diamond rings.
(So together, like a hand in glove.)
Like pages in a letter.
(Ain’t no woman like the one I love, people.)
Well, I kiss the ground she walks on.
(To make her happy doesn’t take a lot.)
I’m a lonely man when my baby’s gone.