Wilbert Harrison was an American rhythm and blues singer, pianist, and guitarist. Born in 1929 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Harrison started his career in the late 1940s, recording for various labels and performing with a number of bands. He achieved his greatest success in the mid-1950s with the hit song “Kansas City,” which topped the charts and became a rock and roll classic. The song’s simple, catchy melody and driving beat epitomized the sound of early rock and roll and inspired countless cover versions over the years. Harrison’s other hits included “Let’s Stick Together,” “Cheating Baby,” and “Goodbye Kansas City.” In addition to his success as a singer and performer, Harrison was also an accomplished songwriter, penning many of his own hits as well as songs for other artists. He continued to perform and record throughout the 1960s and 1970s, and his music remains a touchstone of early rock and roll to this day. Harrison passed away in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of great music and an enduring influence on American popular culture.
1. “Kansas City”
“Kansas City” is a rhythm and blues song written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, and famously performed by Wilbert Harrison. The song was originally released in 1952 and has since become a classic of the genre, with its catchy melody and upbeat tempo capturing the spirit of the era. Harrison’s distinctive vocal style and energetic delivery add to the song’s appeal, making it a favorite among fans of rhythm and blues and rock and roll alike. With its memorable lyrics and infectious groove, “Kansas City” remains a timeless classic and a testament to the enduring power of rhythm and blues music.
2. “Let’s Stick Together”
“Let’s Stick Together” is a classic rhythm and blues song by American singer Wilbert Harrison, released in 1962. The song features a lively and upbeat rhythm section, with Harrison’s vocals providing a confident and optimistic message of unity and togetherness. The song’s title reflects the sentiment of the lyrics, as Harrison encourages his audience to work together and support each other through difficult times. The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus have made it a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists over the years. “Let’s Stick Together” is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and lift their spirits.
3. “Don’t Drop It”
“Don’t Drop It” is a lively and upbeat R&B song that features Wilbert Harrison’s smooth vocals and energetic guitar playing. Released in 1960, the song showcases Harrison’s ability to create a catchy tune with an irresistible groove that will get anyone on the dance floor. The lyrics tell a playful story about a man who tries to woo a woman, but warns her not to drop his love like she would a hot potato. With its infectious rhythm and Harrison’s dynamic performance, “Don’t Drop It” is a classic example of the early rock and roll sound that continues to inspire and entertain listeners today.
4. “C.C. Rider”
“C.C. Rider” is a blues song originally written and recorded by Ma Rainey in 1924, but later famously performed by Wilbert Harrison. Harrison’s version of the song, released in 1959, features his soulful vocals and a driving rhythm section, with a prominent piano riff and infectious horn section. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man named C.C. Rider who travels from town to town, with Harrison’s performance conveying the gritty realism and raw emotion of the blues. “C.C. Rider” remains a classic of the genre and a testament to Harrison’s talent as a blues musician and vocalist.
5. “Gonna Tell You a Story”
“Gonna Tell You a Story” is a classic rhythm and blues song by American singer Wilbert Harrison, released in 1963. The song features a relaxed and swinging groove, with Harrison’s vocals providing a storytelling quality to the lyrics. The song’s title reflects the narrative style of the lyrics, as Harrison spins a tale of love and heartbreak. The song’s melody is catchy and memorable, with a bluesy and soulful feel that showcases Harrison’s vocal range and expressive phrasing. “Gonna Tell You a Story” is a classic example of the storytelling tradition in blues and R&B music, and a testament to Harrison’s skill as a performer and songwriter.
6. “Listen My Darling”
“Listen My Darling” is a soulful and romantic ballad by Wilbert Harrison that showcases his smooth vocal range and evocative lyricism. The song, released in 1962, features a slow and steady rhythm, complemented by Harrison’s delicate crooning and the gentle strumming of guitar. With its heartfelt plea for love and attention, “Listen My Darling” captures the essence of the doo-wop and R&B music of the era, while also showcasing Harrison’s unique vocal style and songwriting abilities. The song is a testament to Harrison’s ability to blend different genres and create a sound that was both classic and modern, and remains a beloved track among fans of soul and R&B music.
7. “Since I Fell for You”
“Since I Fell for You” is a blues ballad written and recorded by American jazz pianist and composer Buddy Johnson, but famously covered by Wilbert Harrison. Harrison’s version of the song, released in 1963, features his soulful, emotive vocals and a slow, romantic arrangement, with the emphasis on the song’s heartfelt lyrics. The song’s melancholy melody and poignant lyrics capture the pain and longing of a love that’s gone wrong, with Harrison’s performance conveying a deep sense of emotional vulnerability. “Since I Fell for You” remains a classic of the blues ballad genre and a testament to Harrison’s talent as a vocalist and interpreter of songs.
8. “Let’s Work Together”
“Let’s Work Together” is a classic blues and rock song by American singer Wilbert Harrison, released in 1969. The song features a catchy and upbeat rhythm, with Harrison’s vocals providing an inspiring call to action. The song’s title reflects the theme of collaboration and unity, as Harrison encourages his listeners to work together for a common goal. The song’s melody is infectious and memorable, with a driving and dynamic feel that showcases Harrison’s vocal energy and passion. “Let’s Work Together” is a timeless anthem of cooperation and community, and a testament to the power of music to bring people together.
9. “Goodbye Kansas City”
“Goodbye Kansas City” is a blues and rock and roll song by Wilbert Harrison, released in 1960. The song is about leaving Kansas City and heading for Chicago to find a better life. It features a driving rhythm and Harrison’s soulful vocals that deliver the lyrics with intensity and emotion. The song became a hit and is one of Harrison’s most popular and enduring tracks. Its influence on the development of rock and roll cannot be overstated, and it has been covered by many artists over the years. “Goodbye Kansas City” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of the blues and rock and roll in its purest form.
10. “My Love”
“My Love” is a soulful and romantic ballad by American singer Wilbert Harrison, released in 1964. The song features a slow and emotional groove, with Harrison’s vocals providing a heartfelt and tender expression of love. The song’s lyrics describe the depth of Harrison’s feelings for his partner, with lines like “My love for you is like a river, deep and wide.” The song’s melody is beautiful and timeless, with a gentle and soothing feel that perfectly complements the sentiment of the lyrics. “My Love” is a classic example of soulful balladry, and a testament to Harrison’s skill as a singer and interpreter of love songs.