Roberta Flack – The Closer I Get to You

Introduction

“The Closer I Get to You” is a classic love ballad performed by Roberta Flack and featuring Donny Hathaway. Released in 1977, the song has since become a timeless favorite, showcasing Flack’s emotive voice and Hathaway’s soulful harmonies.

Background

Written by James Mtume and Reggie Lucas, the song captures the essence of romantic anticipation and emotional intimacy. Flack and Hathaway had previously collaborated on the hit “Where Is the Love,” and their chemistry is evident in this duet, adding depth and richness to the lyrics.

Musical Composition

Roberta Flack – The Closer I Get to You
Roberta Flack – The Closer I Get to You

Musically, the song blends elements of R&B, jazz, and soul, characterized by its smooth melody and lush instrumentation. The arrangement features soft piano chords, gentle strings, and a subtle rhythm section that allows the vocal performances to take center stage. The gradual build-up in the chorus heightens the emotional impact.

Themes and Lyrics

The lyrics express the profound connection between two lovers as they draw closer to each other emotionally and physically. Themes of love, vulnerability, and yearning resonate throughout the song, making it relatable for anyone who has experienced deep romantic feelings. Lines such as “The closer I get to you, the more you make me see” beautifully convey the transformative power of love.

Cultural Impact

“The Closer I Get to You” has been covered by various artists over the years, further cementing its status as a classic. It has been featured in films and television, often evoking nostalgia and a sense of longing. Flack and Hathaway’s version remains the most iconic, praised for its emotional depth and vocal synergy.

Conclusion

Roberta Flack’s “The Closer I Get to You” stands out as a poignant expression of love and connection. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s powerful lyrics and the exceptional vocal performances of Flack and Hathaway, making it a cherished piece of musical history.

Lyrics

[Verse 1: Roberta Flack]
The closer I get to you
The more you make me see
By giving me all you’ve got
Your love has captured me

[Bridge: Donny Hathaway]
Over and over again
I try to tell myself that we
Could never be more than friends
And all the while inside I knew it was real
The way you make me feel

[Verse 2: Roberta Flack]
Lying here next to you
Time just seems to fly
Needing you more and more
Let’s give love a try

[Bridge: Donny Hathaway]
Oh, oh, sweeter and sweeter love grows
And heaven’s there for those
Who fool the tricks of time
With the hearts in love they find true love
In a special way

[Verse 3: Roberta Flack]
The closer I get to you
The more you make me see
By giving me all you’ve got
Your love has captured me

[Bridge: Donny Hathaway]
Over and over again
I try to tell myself that we
Could never be more than friends
And all the while inside I knew it was real
The way you make me feel

[Verse 4: Roberta Flack]
The closer I get to you
The more you make me see
By giving you all I got
Your love has captured me

[Outro: Roberta Flack | Donny Hathaway | Both]
The closer I get to you
A feeling comes over me (Me, too)
Pulling closer, sweet as the gravity
The closer I get to you

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