Percy Sledge - When a Man Loves a Woman - 1966
Percy Sledge - When a Man Loves a Woman - 1966
Percy Sledge: When a Man Loves a Woman (1966)
When a Man Loves a Woman is a timeless soul ballad that has captivated audiences since its release in 1966. Sung by Percy Sledge, this song not only defined his career but also left a significant mark in the history of soul music. Its deep emotional resonance and Sledge's passionate delivery make it a classic.
Background and Release
Released in 1966, "When a Man Loves a Woman" was the first and biggest hit of Percy Sledge's career. The song was recorded in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, a place known for its rich musical heritage. The song's origin story is as compelling as the lyrics themselves. According to Sledge, the song was inspired by a broken relationship, adding a layer of genuine heartache to his performance.
Musical Composition
The song is renowned for its emotive lyrics and soulful melody. It begins with a memorable organ part, followed by Sledge's raw, powerful vocals. The lyrics explore the depths of love and devotion, highlighting the lengths a man will go to for the woman he loves.
Cultural Impact
Since its release, "When a Man Loves a Woman" has achieved legendary status. It has been covered by numerous artists and has featured in films, TV shows, and commercials, becoming an iconic symbol of deep and enduring love. The song not only cemented Percy Sledge's place in music history but also had a lasting impact on the genre of soul music.
For further information, dive into these fascinating aspects of the song and its history:
- Soul Music's Evolution
- The 1960s Music Scene
- Love Songs in Popular Culture
- Muscle Shoals Music Legacy
- The Art of Songwriting
External resources for in-depth knowledge: MOOCit
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the Song
What year was "When a Man Loves a Woman" released? (1966) (!1970) (!1960) (!1969)
Where was "When a Man Loves a Woman" recorded? (Muscle Shoals, Alabama) (!Nashville, Tennessee) (!Detroit, Michigan) (!New York City, New York)
What genre does "When a Man Loves a Woman" belong to? (Soul) (!Rock) (!Jazz) (!Country)
Who originally sang "When a Man Loves a Woman"? (Percy Sledge) (!Otis Redding) (!Marvin Gaye) (!Sam Cooke)
What instrument prominently features in the beginning of "When a Man Loves a Woman"? (Organ) (!Guitar) (!Piano) (!Saxophone)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What is the nationality of Percy Sledge? (American) (!British) (!Canadian) (!Australian)
Besides "When a Man Loves a Woman," which of these songs was also sung by Percy Sledge? ("Warm and Tender Love") (!"Sittin' On the Dock of the Bay") (!"Ain't No Sunshine") (!"Stand By Me")
In which state was Percy Sledge born? (Alabama) (!Mississippi) (!Louisiana) (!Georgia)
What was Percy Sledge's profession before becoming a singer? (Hospital orderly) (!Teacher) (!Mechanic) (!Lawyer)
What year was Percy Sledge inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? (2005) (!1999) (!2010) (!2000)
Quiz: Questions on the Lyrics
What does the man in the song do with his "last dime"? (Forgets his own needs) (!Buys a gift) (!Goes out with friends) (!Saves it)
According to the song, what might a man do when he loves a woman? (Turn his back on his best friend) (!Travel the world) (!Write a song) (!Change his appearance)
What does the man in the song do when his loved one is "bad"? (He can't see it) (!He leaves her) (!He gets angry) (!He talks to her about it)
In the song, how does the man feel when she is gone? (Deeply sad) (!Angry) (!Relieved) (!Indifferent)
What does the man in the song give up? (Everything he has) (!His job) (!His hobbies) (!His friends)
Memory
| Percy Sledge | When a Man Loves a Woman |
| 1966 | Year of Release |
| Soul Music | Genre |
| Muscle Shoals, Alabama | Recording Location |
| Organ | Prominent Instrument in the Song |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Explore the Evolution of Soul Music: Listen to different soul tracks from the 1960s to present day and identify key changes in the genre.
- Percy Sledge's Discography: Discover other songs by Percy Sledge and compare them to "When a Man Loves a Woman."
- Musical Instruments in Soul Music: Research the typical instruments used in soul music and explain their roles.
Standard
- Analyze the Lyrics: Write an essay on the themes and emotions in "When a Man Loves a Woman."
- 1960s Music Scene: Create a presentation on how the music scene in the 1960s influenced the creation of songs like "When a Man Loves a Woman."
- Muscle Shoals' Music Legacy: Investigate the significance of Muscle Shoals in music history and prepare a report.
Difficult
- Songwriting Process: Write your own soul ballad, inspired by the themes in "When a Man Loves a Woman."
- Interview Project: Interview people about their first encounter with "When a Man Loves a Woman" and how it affected them.
- Music and Emotions: Conduct a study on how soul music, particularly "When a Man Loves a Woman," influences emotions.
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Oral Exam
- Comparative Analysis: Discuss the differences and similarities between "When a Man Loves a Woman" and another famous soul song of your choice.
- Cultural Impact: Explain the impact of "When a Man Loves a Woman" on modern music and culture.
- Musical Influence: Discuss how Percy Sledge's style in "When a Man Loves a Woman" influenced other musicians.
- Emotional Expression: Analyze how the song expresses emotions and how it achieves its emotional impact.
- Music Evolution: Discuss how the song fits into the evolution of soul music and its significance in the genre.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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