Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes – If You Don’t Know Me By Now (1972)

About the song

Today, I’m thrilled to dive into the timeless classic “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes. This soulful ballad has transcended generations, captivating listeners with its poignant lyrics and emotive melody.

Originally released in 1972 as part of their album “Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes,” this track quickly became a staple of R&B music. The song was written by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, legendary songwriters and producers who played a pivotal role in shaping the Philadelphia soul sound of the 1970s. Their collaboration with Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes yielded numerous hits, with “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” standing out as one of their most iconic creations.

The heartfelt lyrics explore the complexities of love and relationships, resonating with listeners on a deeply emotional level. With Harold Melvin’s soulful vocals leading the way, the song delivers a powerful message about the importance of understanding and acceptance in any romantic partnership.

“If You Don’t Know Me By Now” soared to the top of the charts upon its release, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B singles chart and peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions by artists across different genres, further cementing its status as a classic.

Over the years, this timeless ballad has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in popular culture. Its universal themes and soulful sound continue to captivate audiences around the world, making it a beloved anthem for lovers and dreamers alike.

So, whether you’re experiencing the magic of “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” for the first time or rediscovering its beauty once again, prepare to be swept away by the soul-stirring music of Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes.

Video

Lyrics

If you don’t know me by now
You will never never never know me (oh)
All the things that we’ve been through
You should understand me like I understand you
Now baby I know the difference between right and wrong
I ain’t gonna do nothing to upset our happy home
Oh don’t get so excited when I come home a little late at night
‘Cause we only act like children when we argue fuss and fight
If you don’t know me by now (if you don’t know me)
You will never never never know me (you’ll never, never know me)
If you don’t know me by now(if you don’t, if you don’t know me baby)
You will never never never know me(No you won’t)
We’ve all got our own funny moods
I’ve got mine, woman you’ve got yours too
Just trust in me like I trust in you
As long as we’ve been together it should be so easy to do
Just get yourself together or we might as well say goodbye
What good is a love affair when you can’t see eye to eye, oh
If you don’t know me by now (if you don’t, if you don’t know me baby)
You will never never never know me (hey hey, hey hey, hey hey)
If you don’t know me by now (you will never never never know me)
You will never never never know me (oh)