I Can Understand It Explained
"I Can Understand It" is a soul classic written and originally recorded by rhythm and blues musician Bobby Womack, who originally recorded the song for his top ten album, Understanding, released in late 1972.[1] The Womack version was done in a more blues style.
New Birth recording
In 1973, New Birth recorded a James Brown-esque style recording of the song with lead singer Leslie Wilson, who sounded like Womack, was vocally influenced by Sam Cooke. Their fast-paced version peaked at number four on the R&B charts and number thirty-five on the Hot 100.[2] The New Birth version is the better-known version and has garnered praise.
Other versions
- Bobby Womack's brothers, The Valentinos, also recorded the song. Their version was released as a single, and became a chart hit.
- In 1975 Columbia records released a third version of this classic track. The least known of the three, this version by Kokomo, a British-soul group, includes delicately mixed congas with a tempo similar to New Birth's and is perhaps, musically, the funkiest of the three. This version peaked at #13 on the US Disco File Top 20 chart.[3] Lead singer Tony O'Malley's vocal style is reminiscent of [Dr. John]'s. The background harmonies and ad-libs make this an outstanding track.
External links
Notes and References
- Web site: www.allmusic.com. allmusic.com. August 30, 2022.
- Book: Top R&B/Hip-Hop Singles: 1942-2004. Whitburn, Joel. Joel Whitburn. 2004 . Record Research. 427.
- Book: Whitburn, Joel . Hot Dance/Disco: 1974-2003. Joel Whitburn . 2004 . Record Research . 148.
