R.I.P Louis Johnson (April 13,1955 - May 21,2015) Louis was one of the greatest bass players there ever was. He played the bass on a number of Michael Jackson's albums (including Billie Jean) he also played the bass on other records as well. He actually played the bass on a song you reacted to not that long ago. (Michael McDonald "I keep forgetting")
I was 17 in 1977. If you like Louis Johnson's bass playing, check out another cut by them, "Get the funk out my face.". And Louis has played on a ton of hit records
Most people like me as a 14 year old white kid that listened to music on the am radio in my moms car cruising around in the 70s. Was colorblind, we listened to whatever sounded Good, and 90% of it was Groove music...Soul.
I really love this song, it’s a classic! The Brothers Johnson were hit makers in the 70s and 80s! I also loved their songs, “Stomp, I’ll Be Good To You, Get The Funk Out Of My Face, and more”! I was a kid back then but my older sisters had their albums! They were very talented musicians! ❤️❤️
One of my all time favorites, brings back some great memories. So much was happening musically in the late 70s. Punk, funk, soul, rock, metal, new wave, disco...
I was about 14 or so when this came out. Was a big EW&F, Spinners, Stylistics, Temptations, Blue Magic cause I was from Philly area fan. Everything from those times were magical Rose Royce, Heatwave, Wow brings me back. Had to memorize and sing Strawberry Letter 23 asap. And after 10 or 20 times I did. Hello my love, I heard a kiss from you Red magic satin playing near, too All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind In the garden, I see West purple shower bells and tea Orange birds and river cousins Dressed in green Pretty music, I hear So happy and loud Blue flowers echo From a cherry cloud Feel sunshine sparkle pink and blue Playgrounds will laugh If you try to ask "Is it cool?" If you arrive and don't see me I'm going to be with my baby I am free, flying in her arms Over the sea Stained window, yellow candy screen See speakers of kite With velvet roses diggin' Freedom flight A present from you Strawberry letter 22 The music plays I sit in for a few Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh Ooh, ooh,…
Brothers Johnson (or, The Brothers Johnson) This indeed was a cover song, originally written by Johnnie (Shuggie) Otis Jr, when Shuggie was 17 (1971). Conceptually, it was about two young people who wrote love letters back and forth 22 times, and I believe they numbered their letters Strawberry letter 1, Strawberry letter 2, etc, etc. "Strawberry letter 22" is mentioned in the song, because the song, which Shuggie wrote to his girlfriend, is his reply letter, thus the song is titled "Strawberry letter 23" and as you do in any chain letter, you usually respond by mentioning things from the previous letter, in this case, Strawberry letter 22. The song doesn't really have a lot of meaningful dialogue. Just simple innocent young love, with a whole lot of imagery. It's not about lust and sex, it's about beautiful scenes "Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind." He wanted her to be his girlfriend, so he was trying to write poetic things to impress her. The imagery was about what strawberry letter 22 invoked. Now, accordingly to what I heard, The Brothers Johnson, were younger cousins of Shuggie, and were going through his attic when they came across his song(s). The melody was rather simplistic, so the Brother's Johnson, with permission, added more funk to it, but left the lyrics primarily intact. Originally, Shuggie didn't get the song to be published, or if it did, it didn't chart at all.
Leon Shuggie was a guitar virtuoso, Quincy basically left the arrangement alone, I have the original recording and it was played on an acoustic guitar. If I remember correctly, I think Quincy brought Eric Clapton in to studio to play that guitar tremolo because George couldn’t play it.
The only thing I can think of is that she sprayed some sort of strawberry sent on the letters she wrote. Like in da movies. The WWII sweetheart sprays some perfume on the letter and puts it in the envelope and the soldier opens it up in Germany and smells it.
It's a response to a letter. His girl has sent him (strawberry) letter 22, he's now responding with letter 23 :) He's telling her about the changes she brings to his world. Rather than seeing the morning rain and gloom, he sees rainbows and waterfalls... This world is a fantasy of cherry clouds and orange birds and children laughing at playgrounds. Back then, we didn't have texting. Phone calls cost a fortune so we sent letters when we were away.
8th grade. Took me back. 😀 I was listening to this song over and over until I got those lyrics down. I sat by my radio with my cassette recorder waiting for it to come on so I could record it off the radio. Good times.
My kids love this song too! I was a young 14 when this song came out. I was in the school band and we listened to this a lot! They have some great songs. Ive exposed my kids to a lot of 70’s music. I think it’s taught them to appreciate great and talented musicians . ✌🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻
Back in the 70's the beautiful thing about the music/lyrics, they could literally have countless meanings/interpretations all unique to the listener! My middle school music teacher was amazing. She would have us listen to popular rock/funk music and give our interpretations. There were 25 students and 25 different interpretations all of which made perfect sense! There was true talent back then, and something that's almost impossible to find now. I miss the true artists of yesterday!
I had an English teacher that did the same thing. Break down the lyrics and walk through their composition. He knew how to capture teenagers attention and get us to interact in a discussion. One of my favorite classes.
Where was I when this song came out? Usually traveling to Delaware to visit my brother while he was in the Air Force. My dad was driving and he liked the song too! My dad and I were usually building (or rebuilding, and rebuilding, and...) an engine for my brother's car. For some reason, this song came out in heavy rotation, and I wasn't complaining. It's just a good grooving song to listen to.
Back in the mid 1980's before internet... my brain for some reason remembered this song...and I could not think of who sang it...and in asking just about everyone I knew if they remembered I could Not find out. I went to the library trying to find song charts from the 1970s lol...because it started to drive me nuts - but my itty bitty library didn't have any books like that. No one at our local radio station recalled it either...but then the 2 disk jockeys we had mostly played country western music or hit parade type songs. About 6 months later.. I was in a 2nd hand store and saw a some cassette tapes show casing songs from 1971 or 1972...and there it was on one of those cassettes ( I can't remember which one...but I bought both of them. I was so happy at last the mystery was solved - I literally had an ear worm for 6 months with that song and also in no one else remembering it...like I said it was driving me nuts. Oh, the good old days of no internet.... Good to hear you react to some of these old songs. They do bring back memories. :D
Love your reaction. This is wonderful music. - you picked up on the bass. You’re right. One of the best to ever do it. - the guitar solo. Very technically difficult. - the Fros. Amazing 🤩 fly. - the Brothers Johnson. Vocals, bass, guitar, good looking, performers, music - all around great vibe.
This was mid seventies. I was a freshman in college. Some friends and I went to a concert with Earth, Wind and Fire. Brothers Johnson was one of the back up bands. Also backing up EWF were the Blackbirds. My son, who is 33, loves this song, and will play it and Heatwave's "Always and Forever" over and over.
One of my favorite songs from the late 70's, this was a very hot song, the longer version shows their guitar skills more. "Stomp" and I'll Be Good To You" were their other big hits. R.I.P.Louis Johnson gone May 21, 2015. The world lost a great bass player. This music with conviction never, never grows old.
"I'll Be Good To You" is my favorite song by them😁😁 I was in Jr High school in Kentucky..I was dating a boy named Michael Winn..he had a huge natural afro..it was glorious.
From what I know is his GF used to write him a lot of love letters on strawberry scented paper after letter number 22 he decided too write this song in hopes of love letter 23. As for the words to the song, it all a 1960s acid trip,
I keep forgetting it's a remake. The original was recorded by Shuggie Otis. The Brothers Johnson version was released in 1977. I turned 5 that year and I remember hearing this song and their other hit "I'll Be Good To You" alot as a child.
I was in HS, class of 1980, and was mostly into guitar bands like Aerosmith, The Who, Led Zep, and back then DJs had a lot more freedom on the rock station we all listened to. They’d play deep cuts that weren’t singles (Outlaws Green Grass & High Tides-awesome!), and they played this song. Totally grabbed me. More than just me because I heard it quite a few times. Great, great song and the harmonies and bass playing made it play in my head all day when I heard it on my way to school. DJ knew a great record when he heard it.
First time I heard this song was on the radio driving to the old stadium to get tickets for a big Baltimore Colts game (yes the Colts used to be located in Baltimore). I still remember driving down Greenmount Ave and being blown away by it.
This tune which was on mainstream radio stations made me stop walking and just stand still until was over. Like you didn't want to miss one thing about it. And written by 17 year old Shuggie Otis in 1971. Amazing song!
Man MRM your taking me back, memories of elementary school!!! I remember this song well, it was the first time I learned how to be in a chrous group. Also the fact that my music teacher could play it on piano left a big impression on me. Also to further the memory my cousin picked out the Bass part by ear. It was 1977 and life was simple back then even though a lot of people don't realize this is a cover of a song by *Shuggie Otis* want to talk about a different feel!!! Thank goodness the *Brothers Johnson* ripped it up and made the more defining version!! Well as as always looking forward to your next reaction peace and blessings!!!
I always loved that guitar piece in the middle. That was an element of surprise. The song was just grooving along nicely and then that came out of nowhere!
This was a junior high school jam that me and all my friends loved!! "I'll Be Good To You" is another that deserves a listen! Great hearing it again (and this was my first time actually seeing them play)
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Oakland CA 1978. They opened for the Bee Gees. Floor Seats with my girlfriend. They were the Bomb, Soul, Funk. Man I can only imagine how many babies came about when this was playing.
Ok!! I was in school and that was one of my favorite songs. I had the record, yes in those days we had records, honey. I am 58 years old, thank the lord and I have a whole collection of my era songs 🎵. I just love ❤ it, love it, loophole it.
Great song brings back memories of the skating rink on a Saturday...love your reactions and the fact that you play all different genres...expanding our musical minds.. ❤
Rarely do I remember where I was when I 1st heard a song but this is an exception. I was a little girl on a long flight. This song was on a 10-song loop. I was tethered to the seat for the whole flight so I could listen over and over to Bros. J. play "Strawberry Letter 23" (and secondarily to hear Abba do "Waterloo").
Your reaction surprised me. I grew up on this song and to me its as beautiful as the clouds in heaven. I thought for sure you would absolutely love it. By the way, I was only 10 years old when this song came out.
*Eastside Low Bottoms shit !* I'm a GROWN ASS MAN IN MY MID 40'S ! This brought a little moisture into my eyes. I lowride to this and I'll Be Good To You !
It’s about love, love is like an acid trip in this song, like butterflies in the pit of your stomach type feeling. There were 22 letters the song is #23. I’ve always loved this song. It was one of my favorites to sing on talent night at my cousins back in the 70’s a very cool time I might add☮️💕
I remember hearing this and I loved it....I had no idea who performed it. It took an accidental stumble upon a tiktok short on RUclips to find out. Literally decades of wondering....
Man! I remember scrounging money for bus fair and head to the skate rink,they knew to play this song several times when I was there,70s had the best music,wish everyone could experience that time.
I haven't heard this in decades. It is great to hear it again. It's like a soft pillow. Just relax and let it do its thing. This is a song that could be 3 times as long and I wouldn't tire of that groove. As good as this is, I've always been partial to their 'I'll Be Good To You'. That one brings tears to my eyes for some reason. I don't know why.
Called The Brothers Johnson,,song came out in 1977..they did not write the song, it was written by Shuggie Otis..I was just almost one year out of high school. The song is about a wedding. Louis Johnson sadly passed away in 2015.
Love those Brothers Johnson Strawberry Letter 23 came out went right to the top a classic with those psychedelic lyrics late summer 1977 makes you feel good as you did 40 years ago actually written by an 18 year old in 1970 one of the Brothers Johnson heard it and loved it look up the original with the kid who wrote and sang it it was not put out what did not catch on but 1970 was psychedelic still. and this kid hung out with the hippies this brother. Shuggie Otis he got involved with Heroin and never reached his full potential but he's fine now still plays not sure on the details but I read it online somewhere you can find the song online somewhere just the audio I found
(1977) I was 19yrs old, Brothers Johnson Strawberry Letter #23 is in response to letter 22, listen to words in the song. Shuggie Otis first recorded Strawberry Letter 23, 1971 I think.....
I was in the 4th or 5th grade, heard it on the radio all the time. A girl in my class named Daniel Johnson brought the album to class for show and tell, but I never put the group/ brothers and the music together until years later watching RUclips videos. And then part of the 70’s just came rushing back into my head...lol Anyone remember the movie CarWash...lol Yeah it’s like that. 😁
I watched soul train and lived all the music of 70s...I was like 12 but half my family was black thru marriage Grew up listening to Kurtis Blow n Sugar Hill Gang...good times
For reference, Louis Johnson later played Bass on two of Michael Jackson's albums (off the wall, and thriller), Herb Albert's "Rise", George Benson's "Give me the night" and Michael McDonald's "I keep forgetting." The later of which has had his signature "slap bass line" sampled in many rap songs. George Johnson, had less prominent solo and associated work.
Wow wow wow...love this song...was heavy into the music style Funk and these guys help to enforce my love for it...that bass is to funky...so glad I did not get genre stuck and listened to everything...the Brothers Johnson...late 70s early 80s...with this song we did not dance we just grooved to it
My time..!! We had the BEST MUSIC.....!! From R&B, Soul, Funk, Rock which is now called "Classic Rock"....... Back when Artists were talented and knew how to play music and actually knew how to sing.........!!! Damn....?!! Had to Google when this song came out....... LITERALLY "Back in the day"..... 1977....!!! I was in High School still going through the motion.......
Great song!!!! We had this album in my house..Also like their song I'll Be Good...they also had an instrumental track by Quincy Jones called Tommorrow which in the 90s someone wrote lyrics to and it was at hit for Tevin Campbell
This is what I would hear any given day during the summer of 69 70 something like that. Thank you for the review and keep up the good work Brothers Johnson do they have any other hits?
Been a looooong time since I've heard this one. I was 5 years old when this came out. Ty, you should write your own cereal parody to this song. You had me laughing on that. 😆
That was psychedelic soul, along the lines of The Chambers Brothers, Time Has Come Today, which you need to listen to; it's an amazing song. The lyrics for Strawberry Letter 23 were a trip, literally.
My mama used to clean house and rake their grandmas yard for a dollar in Mississippi and later I was her nurse in a retirement home. What memories❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🎶🎶🎶😁
I wore that album out! That’s not the extended version. This version cut the instrumental section. The song was about two people in love sending letters to each other strawberry letter 23, 22, 21. I was in high school when this song received a lot of airplay. The brother in tan was a pastor, I think. I heard he passed. My sister always knew all the words to songs. I’d be singing them wrong for years. I would forget to read the lyrics on the album. One other song I loved on the Right On Time album was “Never Leave You Lonely” You’ve got to review it!!! It goes “My love, my only. you can’t imagine how you make me feel inside. For you have opened all doors. To you my heart can’t hide. Oh baby, my only. Say you love me and I’ll never leave you lonely (then some funky guitar riffs). Chorus: I’ll never leave you lonely girl (2 times) 2nd verse: My love, my only I know the two of us were hurt by love before, but now girl we’re together let’s love each other more. Oh baby, my only say you love me and I’ll never leave you lonely. (Funky guitar riffs) Chorus: I’ll never leave you lonely girl, I’ll never leave you lonely....
These were my Boys back in the 70's. I really liked their music. You should also check out their songs "Get The Funk Outta My Face" and "I'll Be Good To You". Solid Gold stuff.
![The Brothers Johnson - Strawberry Letter 23 (1977) [Best Cover Songs] *DayOne Reacts*](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/MVpl_GEBzhM/mqdefault.jpg)
R.I.P Louis Johnson (April 13,1955 - May 21,2015) Louis was one of the greatest bass players there ever was. He played the bass on a number of Michael Jackson's albums (including Billie Jean) he also played the bass on other records as well. He actually played the bass on a song you reacted to not that long ago. (Michael McDonald "I keep forgetting")
Louis Johnson was one of the best players to ever handle a bass guitar. Rest in power.
Thanks for sharing that. Wasn’t Louis a pastor? I think I remember hearing that. I loved the Brothers Johnson!
I was 17 in 1977. If you like Louis Johnson's bass playing, check out another cut by them, "Get the funk out my face.". And Louis has played on a ton of hit records
You’ve got that right ! Louis was tops on playing the bass .yes your 💯right he did play the bass on Michale Jackson,s thriller ! Not many knew that .
Instablaster.
Louis Johnson, one of the greatest bass players EVER 👏👏👏 I’ve loved this song since the day I first heard it, back in 1977!
Their other great songs were "Stomp" and "I'll Be Good To You", both great. Give those a listen too.
and Get the Funk Outta My Face
I love Stomp!!
I’ll be good to you is awesome.
Damn, I agree! Those songs are amazing!!!
Absolutely!
Most people like me as a 14 year old white kid that listened to music on the am radio in my moms car cruising around in the 70s. Was colorblind, we listened to whatever sounded Good, and 90% of it was Groove music...Soul.
I really love this song, it’s a classic! The Brothers Johnson were hit makers in the 70s and 80s! I also loved their songs, “Stomp, I’ll Be Good To You, Get The Funk Out Of My Face, and more”! I was a kid back then but my older sisters had their albums! They were very talented musicians! ❤️❤️
One of my all time favorites, brings back some great memories. So much was happening musically in the late 70s. Punk, funk, soul, rock, metal, new wave, disco...
im 56 years old i still listen to this song all the time thunder thumbs
I was about 14 or so when this came out. Was a big EW&F, Spinners, Stylistics, Temptations, Blue Magic cause I was from Philly area fan. Everything from those times were magical Rose Royce, Heatwave, Wow brings me back. Had to memorize and sing Strawberry Letter 23 asap. And after 10 or 20 times I did. Hello my love, I heard a kiss from you
Red magic satin playing near, too
All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine
Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind
In the garden, I see
West purple shower bells and tea
Orange birds and river cousins
Dressed in green
Pretty music, I hear
So happy and loud
Blue flowers echo
From a cherry cloud
Feel sunshine sparkle pink and blue
Playgrounds will laugh
If you try to ask
"Is it cool?"
If you arrive and don't see me
I'm going to be with my baby
I am free, flying in her arms
Over the sea
Stained window, yellow candy screen
See speakers of kite
With velvet roses diggin'
Freedom flight
A present from you
Strawberry letter 22
The music plays
I sit in for a few
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh,…
A blast from the past. It never gets old.
Brothers Johnson (or, The Brothers Johnson)
This indeed was a cover song, originally written by Johnnie (Shuggie) Otis Jr, when Shuggie was 17 (1971). Conceptually, it was about two young people who wrote love letters back and forth 22 times, and I believe they numbered their letters Strawberry letter 1, Strawberry letter 2, etc, etc.
"Strawberry letter 22" is mentioned in the song, because the song, which Shuggie wrote to his girlfriend, is his reply letter, thus the song is titled "Strawberry letter 23" and as you do in any chain letter, you usually respond by mentioning things from the previous letter, in this case, Strawberry letter 22.
The song doesn't really have a lot of meaningful dialogue. Just simple innocent young love, with a whole lot of imagery. It's not about lust and sex, it's about beautiful scenes "Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind." He wanted her to be his girlfriend, so he was trying to write poetic things to impress her. The imagery was about what strawberry letter 22 invoked.
Now, accordingly to what I heard, The Brothers Johnson, were younger cousins of Shuggie, and were going through his attic when they came across his song(s). The melody was rather simplistic, so the Brother's Johnson, with permission, added more funk to it, but left the lyrics primarily intact. Originally, Shuggie didn't get the song to be published, or if it did, it didn't chart at all.
Thanks man you just taught me a lot lol.
I either read or heard an interview that the girlfriend wore strawberry scented perfume that she would spray on the letters she wrote
Leon Shuggie was a guitar virtuoso, Quincy basically left the arrangement alone, I have the original recording and it was played on an acoustic guitar. If I remember correctly, I think Quincy brought Eric Clapton in to studio to play that guitar tremolo because George couldn’t play it.
And thank you for breaking it down for me
Wow. This song took me on a trip in the way back machine. I haven't heard this since I was a kid in the 1970's. Good request!
That guitar break is from another planet. That's one of my favorite guitar moments in music history.
Always loved this song but still have clue what they are talking about! 70s music was the best!!
Feel for those too young to know these great groups like the Bros Johnson, what?
It’s a cover, about a teenagers love letters
The only thing I can think of is that she sprayed some sort of strawberry sent on the letters she wrote. Like in da movies. The WWII sweetheart sprays some perfume on the letter and puts it in the envelope and the soldier opens it up in Germany and smells it.
He spoke too soft no one knew what he was talking about but louie louie was a hit and we never knew those lyrics back then either lol
Arlene who is that pretty girl in your photo
This came out in the Summer of 1977. I Have always Loved this song ❤❤ All I know is It's something about a Wedding ❤❤
It's a response to a letter. His girl has sent him (strawberry) letter 22, he's now responding with letter 23 :)
He's telling her about the changes she brings to his world. Rather than seeing the morning rain and gloom, he sees rainbows and waterfalls... This world is a fantasy of cherry clouds and orange birds and children laughing at playgrounds.
Back then, we didn't have texting. Phone calls cost a fortune so we sent letters when we were away.
8th grade. Took me back. 😀 I was listening to this song over and over until I got those lyrics down. I sat by my radio with my cassette recorder waiting for it to come on so I could record it off the radio. Good times.
I remember doing the same thing with my cassette recorder. Thanks for reminding me of that.
So What the hell is ," river cousins dress in green " isn't there a law against things like that
Me too lol - over and over
Their music was 🔥 back in the day!! Yes I'm old
Shuggie. Otis sang it originally. I love the brothers Johnson, went to a Concert, they use to be jammin with Quincy Jones xoxo
My step-dad bought this album when it came out and I listened to it a whole summer, love the song "Get The Funk Out Of My Face".
Thank you!! Something about this song sticks in your head I've loved it since a teenager in the 70's ☮😁
My kids love this song too! I was a young 14 when this song came out. I was in the school band and we listened to this a lot! They have some great songs. Ive exposed my kids to a lot of 70’s music. I think it’s taught them to appreciate great and talented musicians . ✌🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻
17 here.
Back in the 70's the beautiful thing about the music/lyrics, they could literally have countless meanings/interpretations all unique to the listener! My middle school music teacher was amazing. She would have us listen to popular rock/funk music and give our interpretations. There were 25 students and 25 different interpretations all of which made perfect sense! There was true talent back then, and something that's almost impossible to find now. I miss the true artists of yesterday!
I had an English teacher that did the same thing. Break down the lyrics and walk through their composition. He knew how to capture teenagers attention and get us to interact in a discussion. One of my favorite classes.
Please react to "Stomp" by the Brothers Johnson!!!!
Oh, the memories....loved their song “I’ll be good to you.”
ROLLER SKATING
@KateRochester YESSSSSSSS! OMG, I miss the simpler time in life!
Yasss!!
Where was I when this song came out?
Usually traveling to Delaware to visit my brother while he was in the Air Force. My dad was driving and he liked the song too! My dad and I were usually building (or rebuilding, and rebuilding, and...) an engine for my brother's car. For some reason, this song came out in heavy rotation, and I wasn't complaining.
It's just a good grooving song to listen to.
Back in the mid 1980's before internet... my brain for some reason remembered this song...and I could not think of who sang it...and in asking just about everyone I knew if they remembered I could Not find out. I went to the library trying to find song charts from the 1970s lol...because it started to drive me nuts - but my itty bitty library didn't have any books like that. No one at our local radio station recalled it either...but then the 2 disk jockeys we had mostly played country western music or hit parade type songs.
About 6 months later.. I was in a 2nd hand store and saw a some cassette tapes show casing songs from 1971 or 1972...and there it was on one of those cassettes ( I can't remember which one...but I bought both of them. I was so happy at last the mystery was solved - I literally had an ear worm for 6 months with that song and also in no one else remembering it...like I said it was driving me nuts.
Oh, the good old days of no internet.... Good to hear you react to some of these old songs. They do bring back memories. :D
great song. very original. very soulful. groovy.
Love your reaction. This is wonderful music.
- you picked up on the bass. You’re right. One of the best to ever do it.
- the guitar solo. Very technically difficult.
- the Fros. Amazing 🤩 fly.
- the Brothers Johnson. Vocals, bass, guitar, good looking, performers, music - all around great vibe.
This was mid seventies. I was a freshman in college. Some friends and I went to a concert with Earth, Wind and Fire. Brothers Johnson was one of the back up bands. Also backing up EWF were the Blackbirds. My son, who is 33, loves this song, and will play it and Heatwave's "Always and Forever" over and over.
One of my favorite songs from the late 70's, this was a very hot song, the longer version shows their guitar skills more. "Stomp" and I'll Be Good To You" were their other big hits. R.I.P.Louis Johnson gone May 21, 2015. The world lost a great bass player. This music with conviction never, never grows old.
"I'll Be Good To You" is my favorite song by them😁😁 I was in Jr High school in Kentucky..I was dating a boy named Michael Winn..he had a huge natural afro..it was glorious.
Where is he now, just asking
I love the song. But I could never figure out what their singing about. And the songs name has 23 but the song says 22.
Yes, talking about letter 22, but singing was letter 23
From what I know is his GF used to write him a lot of love letters on strawberry scented paper after letter number 22 he decided too write this song in hopes of love letter 23. As for the words to the song, it all a 1960s acid trip,
I keep forgetting it's a remake. The original was recorded by Shuggie Otis. The Brothers Johnson version was released in 1977. I turned 5 that year and I remember hearing this song and their other hit "I'll Be Good To You" alot as a child.
love that groove
I think about 1978 a year after high school , great song the bros. ROCKED ...
I have loved this since I was a little girl. Love The Brothers Johnson.❤
I was in HS, class of 1980, and was mostly into guitar bands like Aerosmith, The Who, Led Zep, and back then DJs had a lot more freedom on the rock station we all listened to. They’d play deep cuts that weren’t singles (Outlaws Green Grass & High Tides-awesome!), and they played this song. Totally grabbed me. More than just me because I heard it quite a few times. Great, great song and the harmonies and bass playing made it play in my head all day when I heard it on my way to school. DJ knew a great record when he heard it.
I loved your reaction when the harmonic guitar riff began. I remember my sister playing it for me the first time I heard it in '77
The bass player was the same bassist in Michael Jackson’s Thriller album. His most famous riff could be heard in “Billy Jean”
First time I heard this song was on the radio driving to the old stadium to get tickets for a big Baltimore Colts game (yes the Colts used to be located in Baltimore). I still remember driving down Greenmount Ave and being blown away by it.
What???? OMG!! One of my very favorite songs! Never, ever thought I'd see a 'reaction' video to it! Made my day ♡
Love, love, love this song!
This tune which was on mainstream radio stations made me stop walking and just stand still until was over. Like you didn't want to miss one thing about it. And written by 17 year old Shuggie Otis in 1971. Amazing song!
Man MRM your taking me back, memories of elementary school!!! I remember this song well, it was the first time I learned how to be in a chrous group. Also the fact that my music teacher could play it on piano left a big impression on me. Also to further the memory my cousin picked out the Bass part by ear. It was 1977 and life was simple back then even though a lot of people don't realize this is a cover of a song by *Shuggie Otis* want to talk about a different feel!!! Thank goodness the *Brothers Johnson* ripped it up and made the more defining version!! Well as as always looking forward to your next reaction peace and blessings!!!
I always loved that guitar piece in the middle. That was an element of surprise. The song was just grooving along nicely and then that came out of nowhere!
First heard this in the movie Jackie Brown with Samual L Jackson
I wouldn't want to be Beaumont right now!
That;s what did it for me.
This was a junior high school jam that me and all my friends loved!! "I'll Be Good To You" is another that deserves a listen! Great hearing it again (and this was my first time actually seeing them play)
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Oakland CA 1978. They opened for the Bee Gees. Floor Seats with my girlfriend. They were the Bomb, Soul, Funk. Man I can only imagine how many babies came about when this was playing.
Ok!! I was in school and that was one of my favorite songs. I had the record, yes in those days we had records, honey. I am 58 years old, thank the lord and I have a whole collection of my era songs 🎵. I just love ❤ it, love it, loophole it.
Didn't hear this one for Years. Awesome bass line. Gimme that funk!
Great song brings back memories of the skating rink on a Saturday...love your reactions and the fact that you play all different genres...expanding our musical minds.. ❤
I had the 45 & vinyl. I LOVE the Brothers Johnson. This was one of my favorite songs in high school.
Lyrics
Hello my love, I heard a kiss from you
Red magic satin playing near, too
All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine
Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind
In the garden, I see
West purple shower bells and tea
Orange birds and river cousins
Dressed in green
Pretty music, I hear
So happy and loud
Blue flowers echo
From a cherry cloud
Feel sunshine sparkle pink and blue
Playgrounds will laugh
If you try to ask
"Is it cool?"
If you arrive and don't see me
I'm going to be with my baby
I am free, flying in her arms
Over the sea
Stained window, yellow candy screen
See speakers of kite
With velvet roses diggin'
Freedom flight
A present from you
Strawberry letter 22
The music plays
I sit in for a few
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
A present from you
Strawberry letter 22
The music plays
I sit in for a few
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Shuggie Otis
Strawberry Letter 23 lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, BMG Rights Management
Rarely do I remember where I was when I 1st heard a song but this is an exception. I was a little girl on a long flight. This song was on a 10-song loop. I was tethered to the seat for the whole flight so I could listen over and over to Bros. J. play "Strawberry Letter 23" (and secondarily to hear Abba do "Waterloo").
Your reaction surprised me. I grew up on this song and to me its as beautiful as the clouds in heaven. I thought for sure you would absolutely love it.
By the way, I was only 10 years old when this song came out.
I saw them in Concert. They jammed all night. EVERYONE was dancing and grooving. Great night, wonderful memories
*Eastside Low Bottoms shit !*
I'm a GROWN ASS MAN IN MY MID 40'S ! This brought a little moisture into my eyes.
I lowride to this and I'll Be Good To You !
I was a kid in 1977. Always been my favorite from them...
There it is
It’s about love, love is like an acid trip in this song, like butterflies in the pit of your stomach type feeling. There were 22 letters the song is #23. I’ve always loved this song. It was one of my favorites to sing on talent night at my cousins back in the 70’s a very cool time I might add☮️💕
The Brothers Johnson was the coolest thing I ever heard in my young 15 years, way back in the day! Totally awesome group!
STOMP by Brothers Johnson - is essential
I agree. You like the bass in this song, nothing compared to the he tears up that bass in STOMP!, like he shooting a machine gun.
@@wildmandon1 and to think it all began with Carol Kaye and James Jamerson
@@briann7495 I don't Carol Kaye, but I know who James Jamerson is, one of the "Funk Brothers", Motown's studio Musicians. Great Musicians!
@@wildmandon1 Carol Kaye was around when Jazz went to Blues then transitioning into Rock ... she was around that entire time as a bass studio musician
One of my favorites. I'm going to age myself, I had the 45. In fact, the 45 was lime green in color and smelled like strawberries.
A lot of 70s songs today. I was a kid when these songs came out. I remember having a KISS radio listening to almost of these 70s songs.
The Brothers Johnson are underrated in music history
Ty! I knew this one would blow your socks off! I think Prince owed a hat's off and a nod to these guys.
I remember hearing this and I loved it....I had no idea who performed it. It took an accidental stumble upon a tiktok short on RUclips to find out.
Literally decades of wondering....
Man! I remember scrounging money for bus fair and head to the skate rink,they knew to play this song several times when I was there,70s had the best music,wish everyone could experience that time.
I was in middle school when this came out! Another cool memory skating to this. Great vibes....!
I haven't heard this in decades. It is great to hear it again. It's like a soft pillow. Just relax and let it do its thing. This is a song that could be 3 times as long and I wouldn't tire of that groove. As good as this is, I've always been partial to their 'I'll Be Good To You'. That one brings tears to my eyes for some reason. I don't know why.
I listen to this when i walk through the office in the morning and I feel like I'm smooth af😂
😂
I saw them in concert when I was young! This song was so popular!!! They were really good!
Im 64 and this was the jam at the disco and cruising in our T model thunderbirds 💙1977
One of Quincy Jones' masterpieces. His production and arrangement made this recording legendary. Has one of the best bridges I have ever heard.
Omg you’re hilarious. I loved these guys. Big fros and all. Louis was awesome.
Tonight’s music was on point! Who wouldn’t like that song? Sooo good
Called The Brothers Johnson,,song came out in 1977..they did not write the song, it was written by Shuggie Otis..I was just almost one year out of high school. The song is about a wedding. Louis Johnson sadly passed away in 2015.
Love those Brothers Johnson Strawberry Letter 23 came out went right to the top a classic with those psychedelic lyrics late summer 1977 makes you feel good as you did 40 years ago actually written by an 18 year old in 1970 one of the Brothers Johnson heard it and loved it look up the original with the kid who wrote and sang it it was not put out what did not catch on but 1970 was psychedelic still. and this kid hung out with the hippies this brother. Shuggie Otis he got involved with Heroin and never reached his full potential but he's fine now still plays not sure on the details but I read it online somewhere you can find the song online somewhere just the audio I found
Every time I hear this song I think about poor ol' Beaumont in Jackie Brown. I was in high school when this came out.
When I was a little girl I used to sing this song to my baby sister over and over because she liked it...
Had this 45 when I was 12. I still remember the words which are psychedelic and poetic. So glad you did this !!!
One of my favs. Was young it's all I can remember
(1977) I was 19yrs old, Brothers Johnson Strawberry Letter #23 is in response to letter 22, listen to words in the song. Shuggie Otis first recorded Strawberry Letter 23, 1971 I think.....
I was in the 4th or 5th grade, heard it on the radio all the time. A girl in my class named Daniel Johnson brought the album to class for show and tell, but I never put the group/ brothers and the music together until years later watching RUclips videos. And then part of the 70’s just came rushing back into my head...lol
Anyone remember the movie CarWash...lol
Yeah it’s like that. 😁
I watched soul train and lived all the music of 70s...I was like 12 but half my family was black thru marriage
Grew up listening to Kurtis Blow n Sugar Hill Gang...good times
For reference, Louis Johnson later played Bass on two of Michael Jackson's albums (off the wall, and thriller), Herb Albert's "Rise", George Benson's "Give me the night" and Michael McDonald's "I keep forgetting." The later of which has had his signature "slap bass line" sampled in many rap songs.
George Johnson, had less prominent solo and associated work.
Wow wow wow...love this song...was heavy into the music style Funk and these guys help to enforce my love for it...that bass is to funky...so glad I did not get genre stuck and listened to everything...the Brothers Johnson...late 70s early 80s...with this song we did not dance we just grooved to it
My time..!! We had the BEST MUSIC.....!! From R&B, Soul, Funk, Rock which is now called "Classic Rock"....... Back when Artists were talented and knew how to play music and actually knew how to sing.........!!! Damn....?!! Had to Google when this song came out....... LITERALLY "Back in the day"..... 1977....!!! I was in High School still going through the motion.......
Great song!!!! We had this album in my house..Also like their song I'll Be Good...they also had an instrumental track by Quincy Jones called Tommorrow which in the 90s someone wrote lyrics to and it was at hit for Tevin Campbell
This is what I would hear any given day during the summer of 69 70 something like that. Thank you for the review and keep up the good work Brothers Johnson do they have any other hits?
This Brothers Johnson version was released in 1977. It’s a cover of the original song by Shuggie Otis. Shuggie’s version was released in 1971.
I love this song. Another smooth groovy 70s jam.
Been a looooong time since I've heard this one. I was 5 years old when this came out.
Ty, you should write your own cereal parody to this song. You had me laughing on that. 😆
That was psychedelic soul, along the lines of The Chambers Brothers, Time Has Come Today, which you need to listen to; it's an amazing song. The lyrics for Strawberry Letter 23 were a trip, literally.
They killed a tune called “Dancing Free”, too! Brothers Johnson (from another Johnson)🔥💯🔥💯🔥💯🔥
My mama used to clean house and rake their grandmas yard for a dollar in Mississippi and later I was her nurse in a retirement home. What memories❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🎶🎶🎶😁
Just remembered when it came out on the radio. Doesn't matter what it was about....just the way he made the lyrics flow so well.
This is my jam!! Thank you, makes me want to put some skates on and get it!!
I've always LOVED this song. On my weekly playlist still.
They used to call the bass player (Louis Johnson) "Thunder Thumbs".
I wore that album out! That’s not the extended version. This version cut the instrumental section. The song was about two people in love sending letters to each other strawberry letter 23, 22, 21. I was in high school when this song received a lot of airplay. The brother in tan was a pastor, I think. I heard he passed. My sister always knew all the words to songs. I’d be singing them wrong for years. I would forget to read the lyrics on the album. One other song I loved on the Right On Time album was “Never Leave You Lonely” You’ve got to review it!!! It goes “My love, my only. you can’t imagine how you make me feel inside. For you have opened all doors. To you my heart can’t hide. Oh baby, my only. Say you love me and I’ll never leave you lonely (then some funky guitar riffs). Chorus: I’ll never leave you lonely girl (2 times) 2nd verse: My love, my only I know the two of us were hurt by love before, but now girl we’re together let’s love each other more. Oh baby, my only say you love me and I’ll never leave you lonely. (Funky guitar riffs) Chorus: I’ll never leave you lonely girl, I’ll never leave you lonely....
These were my Boys back in the 70's. I really liked their music. You should also check out their songs "Get The Funk Outta My Face" and "I'll Be Good To You". Solid Gold stuff.
This song told me the One I Love would have Red Hair but I didn't know this at the time. Thanks Shuggie Otis and the Brothers Johnson.
So funny, I was thinking of this song for you yesterday. Love it!!!