Simply Red - If You Don't Know Me By Now

Simply Red – If You Don’t Know Me By Now

Simply Red’s cover of “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” is one of the most iconic renditions of this soulful ballad, originally recorded by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes in 1972. Released by Simply Red in 1989 on their album A New Flame, the song became a massive hit and solidified the band’s place in pop and soul music history.

The original “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” was written by the legendary duo Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff- IT was originally written for Labelle but they never recorded it. The song became a classic thanks to its emotional depth and lyrics about love, understanding, and relationship struggles. Its slow, soulful tempo and tender lyrics struck a chord with audiences, making it a timeless piece of the 1970s soul era.

In Simply Red’s rendition, Mick Hucknall’s powerful and emotive voice took the song to new heights, resonating with fans worldwide. Hucknall’s vocal performance, full of raw emotion, helped the cover reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and also became a hit in the UK and several other countries. The song’s success brought Simply Red mainstream recognition, appealing to both pop and soul music audiences.

Simply Red’s version of “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” is often regarded as one of the greatest cover songs in pop history. Its success helped bridge soul and pop music for a new generation, bringing renewed attention to Gamble and Huff’s songwriting and the legacy of 1970s soul music. The song has remained a staple in Simply Red’s discography and a favorite for fans around the world.

Simply Red – If You Don’t Know Me By Now – Lyrics