Percy Sledge - When a Man Loves a Woman - 1966
![](/images/thumb/5/51/AiMOOC-Siegel-Stempel-MOOCit.png/60px-AiMOOC-Siegel-Stempel-MOOCit.png)
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
Who originally sang "When a Man Loves a Woman"?
What instrument prominently features in the beginning of "When a Man Loves a Woman"?
What year was "When a Man Loves a Woman" released?
What genre does "When a Man Loves a Woman" belong to?
Where was "When a Man Loves a Woman" recorded?
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What year was Percy Sledge inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
What is the nationality of Percy Sledge?
What was Percy Sledge's profession before becoming a singer?
Besides "When a Man Loves a Woman," which of these songs was also sung by Percy Sledge?
In which state was Percy Sledge born?
Quiz: Questions on the Lyrics
What does the man in the song give up?
According to the song, what might a man do when he loves a woman?
In the song, how does the man feel when she is gone?
What does the man in the song do when his loved one is "bad"?
What does the man in the song do with his "last dime"?
Memory
Recording LocationSoul MusicProminent Instrument in the Song1966When a Man Loves a WomanPercy SledgeGenreYear of ReleaseOrganMuscle Shoals, Alabama
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.
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
![](/images/thumb/d/d7/Liedlernen-Logo-24.png/300px-Liedlernen-Logo-24.png)
MUSIC QUIZ
![](/images/thumb/d/d7/Random_MOOCit.png/240px-Random_MOOCit.png)
![](/images/thumb/c/c3/1940s_aiMOOC.png/80px-1940s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/6/64/1950s_aiMOOC.png/80px-1950s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/e/e1/1960s_aiMOOC.png/80px-1960s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/3/38/1970s_aiMOOC.png/80px-1970s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/6/63/1980s_aiMOOC.png/80px-1980s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/0/0d/1990s_aiMOOC.png/80px-1990s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/7/7c/2000s_aiMOOC.png/80px-2000s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/7/7e/2010s_aiMOOC.png/80px-2010s_aiMOOC.png)
![](/images/thumb/b/bf/2020s_aiMOOC.png/80px-2020s_aiMOOC.png)
|