Shuggie Otis - Strawberry Letter 23 (Audio)

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 4 фев 2025

Комментарии • 1,5 тыс.

  • @jackv2244
    @jackv2244 Год назад +528

    All this time I thought The Brothers Johnson originated this song! This brother is highly underrated

    • @GregLowe-bg6tr
      @GregLowe-bg6tr 11 месяцев назад +9

      Me too...💯

    • @jabrilhasan5335
      @jabrilhasan5335 11 месяцев назад +18

      They brought the Black to it.

    • @kck2303
      @kck2303 11 месяцев назад +2

      So did I

    • @mamba00
      @mamba00 11 месяцев назад +2

      Glad you learned something today ♥️

    • @daendiznigh
      @daendiznigh 10 месяцев назад +10

      Same here - but the truth is , LSD or shrooms really created this song

  • @davidhinkson8856
    @davidhinkson8856 16 дней назад +29

    I love the Brothers Johnson version of this, never knew thix existed till today. Like the purity of this one.

  • @leohawkins3363
    @leohawkins3363 11 месяцев назад +431

    How am I now just learning of Shuggie Otis and his being the original performer of this song? I am blown away!

    • @violetcarson5532
      @violetcarson5532 11 месяцев назад +7

      So am I

    • @macewbee
      @macewbee 11 месяцев назад +6

      Same here if it was not for reelblack I would have never knew.

    • @wisdom1224
      @wisdom1224 11 месяцев назад +9

      It really is the year of truth...

    • @TheHundredEyes
      @TheHundredEyes 11 месяцев назад +4

      This album was unreleased for 25 years if I remember correctly.

    • @rockonguitar8117
      @rockonguitar8117 11 месяцев назад +6

      He played bass on Zappa's 'Peaches en Regalia'. Pretty cool dude!

  • @GUITARTIME2024
    @GUITARTIME2024 11 месяцев назад +607

    Hes still alive as of March 2024.

    • @mimi.b868
      @mimi.b868 11 месяцев назад +20

      Yayyyyyy

    • @wolfgang8225
      @wolfgang8225 10 месяцев назад +9

      😮❤❤❤❤

    • @12BITSOUL
      @12BITSOUL 9 месяцев назад +24

      Let’s give him his flowers

    • @maodonimega
      @maodonimega 9 месяцев назад +6

      Hi Shuggie...I LOVE YOUR MUSIC! LOVE LOVE LOVE X

    • @geranwilson8813
      @geranwilson8813 8 месяцев назад +10

      I really like his version the original but I think the brother's johnson done it best

  • @cooldrop02
    @cooldrop02 9 месяцев назад +168

    Holy moly it is absolutely great to be in the comment section that is full of information and knowledge and not crazy talk. Thank you, previous generations.

    • @intisarsabree3947
      @intisarsabree3947 8 месяцев назад +1

      Holy moly is right my friend.

    • @janeferguson4455
      @janeferguson4455 8 месяцев назад +2

      😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉😉 we had GREAT music !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • @Tofu_Pilot
      @Tofu_Pilot 7 месяцев назад +2

      I make artisanal puma sausage gravy to wear as an outfit.

    • @Burning_Babylon
      @Burning_Babylon 7 месяцев назад +1

      Quality over quantity

    • @lissaslighthouse8475
      @lissaslighthouse8475 7 месяцев назад +1

      THE BEST PART OF MUSIC VIDEO COMMENTS IN MY OPINION❤❤

  • @darganx
    @darganx 3 года назад +1309

    1971.
    Wrote the song.
    Played all the instruments.
    Produced it as well.
    At 18.
    *1971.*
    Let that all sink in.

    • @canesvenatici4259
      @canesvenatici4259 2 года назад +25

      He was a real maestro. But I do think that though he has that nice, gentle touch, his voice can be a bit weak and lacking.

    • @swinehorde9118
      @swinehorde9118 2 года назад +40

      amazing. 5 years Later The Brothers Johnson would come along with this cut and dramatically shape who I am as a human. Mad love to Otis.

    • @pentastarr666
      @pentastarr666 2 года назад +21

      Mindblowing. What a talent

    • @COACHTY1
      @COACHTY1 2 года назад +62

      Sounds like he was prince before prince

    • @sverkerolausson2252
      @sverkerolausson2252 Год назад +37

      He released this album in September and he was born In November so he was actually 17 when he made this!

  • @natethan2204
    @natethan2204 10 месяцев назад +70

    When I saw "Otis" in his name, I just knew this would be golden.

  • @daveatkinson3109
    @daveatkinson3109 5 месяцев назад +85

    You can tell Quincy Jones and the Brothers Johnson really honored Shuggie's arrangement and really set out to do justice with their version of it

    • @bernadettegriffin8569
      @bernadettegriffin8569 4 месяца назад +2

      The fabulous Quincy and I loved The Bros Johnson when they were around in our charts.

    • @vinnysaccount
      @vinnysaccount 3 месяца назад +4

      RIP to Quincy!

    • @iamlove113
      @iamlove113 16 дней назад +1

      @@vinnysaccount and peace to Louis also

  • @michaela8802
    @michaela8802 Год назад +592

    I’m 56 years old and Brothers Johnson’s version has been one of my all time favorite songs. How on God’s green earth have I never heard this original masterpiece?? 🤯

    • @Jan_Mac
      @Jan_Mac Год назад +17

      I've only heard the Brothers Johnston's version too, which I absolutely love.
      Netflix ("Sex Education") sent me today.

    • @TeeRod095
      @TeeRod095 11 месяцев назад +8

      Same here and I'm almost 53

    • @SteelersFANinMA
      @SteelersFANinMA 11 месяцев назад +18

      I just turned 54 and I can say the same thing. I must admit though, the bass line by Louis Johnson is playing in my head while I listen to this version. This is very nice, but it doesn't hit the same without the funky bass!

    • @violetcarson5532
      @violetcarson5532 11 месяцев назад +2

      Right

    • @chrisconnors9449
      @chrisconnors9449 11 месяцев назад +6

      After listening to both I Like this original version way better than the more popular remake.

  • @arashtadjiki
    @arashtadjiki 11 месяцев назад +124

    This is one of my all time favorite songs. Going to play it at my wedding in a couple weeks

    • @digidrum2003
      @digidrum2003 11 месяцев назад +2

      Which version? Congrats on your marriage.

    • @sonquatsch8585
      @sonquatsch8585 11 месяцев назад +4

      u better play this version. this is wedding material fa reel.

    • @vxtribe
      @vxtribe 9 месяцев назад

      Fook yea :-) congrats !!!

    • @Jlyn1985
      @Jlyn1985 8 месяцев назад

      Congratulations to you both ❤
      Spectacular Song 🥂

  • @TheTwonne1
    @TheTwonne1 Год назад +190

    It's 2023 I'm 61 years old and went through high school listening to The Brothers Johnson and never knew Strawberry 23 was a remake of this guy until 2 days ago.......Wow, amazing. His version original version sounds really good too, but I love the production of Brothers Johnson, so funky.

    • @bernadettegriffin8569
      @bernadettegriffin8569 11 месяцев назад +8

      Same here. The lyrics and music on both take me to a different universe. Sorry if that sounds a bit hippy dippy but it does still. I was 17 years old when I heard The Bros Johnson and it did then and Shugie singing it takes me even more. A true classic.

    • @markkennard861
      @markkennard861 11 месяцев назад +4

      Same here... exactly same age too... I still have the 45..

    • @Leeshie1994
      @Leeshie1994 9 месяцев назад +6

      I absolutely love both versions for their own uniqueness. Shuggie's gives that psychedelic feel and Brothers Johnson is the funk I need. I listen to both back to back

    • @bensmith4563
      @bensmith4563 4 месяца назад +1

      Check neil Francis has a pretty damn good live version of this

    • @maureenwilberforce9129
      @maureenwilberforce9129 22 дня назад +1

      This is good, but I still like The Brothers Johnson's version better 😊😊.

  • @tladiett1969
    @tladiett1969 11 месяцев назад +87

    Im 55 and NEVER heard of this guy..you live and you learn!

  • @marcfedak
    @marcfedak 8 месяцев назад +40

    I'm surprised at how closely the Brothers Johnson followed Shuggie Otis on their rendition of his song. I love both versions.

  • @TechRight
    @TechRight 11 месяцев назад +68

    The song's chorus says "Strawberry Letter 22" instead of the actual title of the song. This is because the premise of the song is that a couple is exchanging love letters in musical form. ❤

  • @marcuswilliams6840
    @marcuswilliams6840 Год назад +143

    All you unknown artist out there who have wrote songs that have become iconic hits for more popular artists, I salute you. Without your contribution, there are a lot beautiful songs we wouldn't have.

    • @YinkThePinkInkDrinker
      @YinkThePinkInkDrinker Год назад +9

      Fleetwood Mac made “black magic woman” not Santana

    • @marcuswilliams6840
      @marcuswilliams6840 11 месяцев назад +3

      @@YinkThePinkInkDrinker Didn't know that!!!🤔

    • @rogerblewett5595
      @rogerblewett5595 11 месяцев назад

      Real Spill 💯

    • @FUNKACHELI
      @FUNKACHELI 10 месяцев назад +2

      After he walked away from Quincy the bootybandit . there was no way the masons were going to promote the more talented song writer Shugie , it was easier to copy the song and push Shugie to the side , but hopefully he got his royalties

    • @janeferguson4455
      @janeferguson4455 8 месяцев назад +1

      quite true !

  • @JuanPerez-zf8uq
    @JuanPerez-zf8uq 8 месяцев назад +93

    This man deserves a huge applause for writing a great song, definitely one of my favorites, thank you Shuggie 👍🏼👍🏼

    • @Tofu_Pilot
      @Tofu_Pilot 7 месяцев назад +5

      I also love the cover by the Brothers Johnson they did back in '77

    • @nickthabit420
      @nickthabit420 Месяц назад

      I'm glad he got rich from it. Earned.

  • @PrometheusForever
    @PrometheusForever 2 года назад +407

    I am 46 years and I have heard this song by the brothers Johnson a hundred times but this original I've heard for the first time tonite and it's magical man and I love it. Special stuff. 🌃

    • @montego9819
      @montego9819 2 года назад +7

      My mom played the brothers Johnson version growing up a lot and I still enjoy that song as an adult now but am just discovering this gem as well!

    • @ckatheman
      @ckatheman Год назад +7

      This is an interesting listen, but I do prefer the Brothers Johnson version, the backing harmony vocals in particular just give me chills.

    • @stevescontriano860
      @stevescontriano860 Год назад +1

      Really ???

    • @aounibtissam8284
      @aounibtissam8284 Год назад

      Q

    • @stevescontriano860
      @stevescontriano860 Год назад

      Try Simon and Garfunkel

  • @mstyles2667
    @mstyles2667 2 года назад +453

    Shuggie is criminally underrated. This song is amazing and SO ahead of its time, unreal.

    • @paullevine1813
      @paullevine1813 2 года назад +9

      M, WE Blues lover know Shuggie was never underrated as a player & performer just like his famous dad.

    • @Jgeneraledger23
      @Jgeneraledger23 2 года назад +4

      Its definitely not "sexy" like the B.J.'s version is, but Thank God it exists!

    • @grahamsmith6210
      @grahamsmith6210 2 года назад +5

      He was also only 17 when this came out

    • @mstyles2667
      @mstyles2667 2 года назад +6

      @@grahamsmith6210 I know, its amazing. This was a letter to his high school girlfriend, responding to her letter which he is referring to as Strawberry Letter 22 in the song. His response, this song, is Strawberry Letter 23 😇

    • @josephkmartinjr6778
      @josephkmartinjr6778 2 года назад +2

      Brothers Johnson... 🕊️

  • @kutaydemirel101
    @kutaydemirel101 Год назад +95

    "All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine
    Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind" hits different.

  • @jonathandorr2234
    @jonathandorr2234 Год назад +72

    I’ve known, about Shuggie, since I was 19, and I’m 68 , now. No one compares with ‘Him’. 🇲🇱

  • @darrinbaker00
    @darrinbaker00 5 лет назад +2290

    Let’s not gloss over the fact that Shuggie Otis was only 18 years old when he wrote and recorded this.

    • @amponmex2727
      @amponmex2727 5 лет назад +83

      did not know this. Two words - IMPRESSIVE

    • @sixnine365
      @sixnine365 5 лет назад +144

      DiscoR53 Lol! This is the original version. Brothers Johnson version is the cover version.

    • @DiscoR53
      @DiscoR53 5 лет назад +32

      Michael Brickley
      Oh snap! I stand corrected. My bad.

    • @sixnine365
      @sixnine365 5 лет назад +12

      DiscoR53 😊 It’s all good.

    • @TrinidadPuppets
      @TrinidadPuppets 5 лет назад +57

      guys like Shuggie and Todd Rundren don't exist anymore

  • @M.C.Blackwell
    @M.C.Blackwell Год назад +78

    I was wstching, "Our flag means death," and this song played over a scene, and I had to look up who was singing this version, I've never heard it before. Shuggie is great!

  • @toddboudreaux8593
    @toddboudreaux8593 7 месяцев назад +51

    Im 59 years old and im learning this today. He and George Johnson should get together and re-record it.

  • @VelhaGuardaTricolor
    @VelhaGuardaTricolor 4 года назад +524

    How the F**k I spent my whole life without ever hearing this man's name? The more I find out, the more perplex I am with the Radios, Media in general and all others for not treating this guy like they do Clapton, Hendrix, etc...
    This dude is the one.
    Thank God I found him by accident!

    • @avianceslots4446
      @avianceslots4446 3 года назад +13

      Same

    • @yama5182
      @yama5182 3 года назад +9

      It’s unbelievable isn’t??? 🤦🏾‍♀️😡

    • @1computernew
      @1computernew 3 года назад +20

      I think maybe his record label did a poor job of promoting him. I always thought the Brothers Johnson were the first to record this song. I found out today by looking at a Facebook post that I was wrong.

    • @samstyme4125
      @samstyme4125 3 года назад +7

      I second that..

    • @njper123
      @njper123 3 года назад +13

      Word. I came across dude when jay z mentioned him in an interview.

  • @1stthink236
    @1stthink236 11 месяцев назад +117

    Prince before Prince.....Classic!!!

  • @IntheClutch75
    @IntheClutch75 3 месяца назад +49

    It's Election Day 2024 and I am just learning that this brother wrote this song and I'm 56 goddamn years old. Wow.

    • @grendelum
      @grendelum 3 месяца назад

      lol… same

    • @andyblue5667
      @andyblue5667 2 месяца назад

      Not great. But better late than never. Peace and love.

    • @redclover1027
      @redclover1027 Месяц назад

      57 here and exactly the same!

    • @tOneal-kp5ri
      @tOneal-kp5ri Месяц назад

      Same age and me too!!!!! 😂😂😂😂

    • @dougg1075
      @dougg1075 18 дней назад

      You may have forgot that you once knew. Our memories are very plastic and unreliable.

  • @brianrupp9988
    @brianrupp9988 2 года назад +36

    The guitar duo and bells towards the last third of the song sound like the soundtrack to the journey to heaven.

    • @gabrielababel5096
      @gabrielababel5096 Год назад +3

      that is why i would love to play that piece at my funeral, truly love that song ❤

    • @nickthabit420
      @nickthabit420 Месяц назад

      An indefatigable guitar player for sure.

  • @Sieglinde-l9v
    @Sieglinde-l9v 25 дней назад +10

    The lovliest sound I ever heard. Happy New year 2025

  • @delmedeiros3570
    @delmedeiros3570 16 дней назад +4

    Magic. And what a fantastic and difficult guitar riff he created and played.

  • @TracyAllenPreplanner
    @TracyAllenPreplanner 11 месяцев назад +36

    You live and you learn! I never heard of this man! I remember when The Brothers Johnson came out with this song and I fell in love with it! But I didn’t know someone else had written/sang it first🤷🏽‍♀️ And all of these years I thought it said “Hello my love… I (heard a kiss) from you“ 😆 I think it’s pretty cool when you hear someone else sing a song and understand lyrics that you got wrong all those years🤣💐

  • @harter517
    @harter517 4 года назад +159

    Shuggie’s father was Johnny Otis, a pioneer and legend in the R&B music genre.

    • @JeanLeite-d1e
      @JeanLeite-d1e 16 дней назад

      Created "Willie and the Hand Jive", discovered Etta James and played with everyone who was anyone in his day! RRHOFer in 1994!

  • @christineholter2195
    @christineholter2195 2 года назад +144

    Shuggie's original Strawberry Letter 23 makes the hair on my arms stand on end! 🔥❤️

    • @jasongist3791
      @jasongist3791 2 года назад +9

      Perfection in a song. This art is so perfect that it demands your attention. Plain and simple a perfect love song.

    • @michaelcap9550
      @michaelcap9550 2 года назад +6

      Sounds like a song Hendrix might do.

    • @Smokinnnn
      @Smokinnnn Год назад +1

      Every fk'n time bro ✌🏽

    • @digidrum2003
      @digidrum2003 11 месяцев назад +2

      Made his hair stand up too!

  • @bo2720
    @bo2720 4 года назад +239

    Otis is one of the most underrated musicians of all time. Its criminal

    • @nohatersallowd5709
      @nohatersallowd5709 3 года назад +1

      Yo my name is Otis & I've never heard of this dude. So who did it 1st, him or the brothers Johnson?

    • @Meshagurl28
      @Meshagurl28 3 года назад +9

      @@nohatersallowd5709 Shuggie did it first

    • @elysehfm8797
      @elysehfm8797 2 года назад +3

      @@nohatersallowd5709, Shuggie wrote it too.

    • @mstyles2667
      @mstyles2667 2 года назад +1

      I agree but sadly his addictions derailed his career....

    • @eartherskit
      @eartherskit Год назад

      Buggar :(

  • @JGulliMusic
    @JGulliMusic 10 месяцев назад +3

    Great Song 🎶🌟!

  • @dharjo7860
    @dharjo7860 6 месяцев назад +15

    Shuggie wrote this song at 17yrs old, Love this song, Thank you Shuggie 🍓🍓🍓❤️❤️❤️

    • @NellieKAdaba
      @NellieKAdaba 6 месяцев назад

      Yes, but I only knew the Brothers Johnson version.

  • @TheResonatorstories
    @TheResonatorstories 12 дней назад +2

    2:22 the heavenly sound of the vocals with the guitar......maaaan... we all know the brothers Jonson rocked it..but it hit's different with the vocals under.. and to know Shuggie's father produced this record is amazing!!

  • @abemohsin8629
    @abemohsin8629 3 года назад +108

    The bridge / outro of this song actually induces an out of body experience for me. Mind blowing.

    • @nickthabit420
      @nickthabit420 Месяц назад

      Yeah, that's cooler than the Bros version by far.

  • @mileskaye8621
    @mileskaye8621 7 месяцев назад +10

    This song forever gives me a certain feeling that is so beautiful. I don’t think it will ever get old.

  • @TheJustind97
    @TheJustind97 11 месяцев назад +45

    Bday tomorrow I’ll be 27 I learned something new today😮

    • @SickWine-f7k
      @SickWine-f7k 10 месяцев назад +1

      Me to my nigga

    • @bluebird3042
      @bluebird3042 10 месяцев назад +3

      I hope you had a really Happy Birthday 🎂 make the most of every day.

    • @yvette7676
      @yvette7676 10 месяцев назад

      That is a beautiful age 🎉

  • @buffy198397
    @buffy198397 11 дней назад +1

    He was definitely a trailblazer and in his own lane!!! Beautifully written and performed.

  • @aj3974
    @aj3974 3 года назад +234

    I just learned that the Brothers Johnson version was a remake ( literally only a few minutes ago after watching a reaction video) not only was I shocked to learn that after YEARS of absolutely loving the song but I was also shocked by this version...the original. That breakdown actually brought tears to my eyes! Just incredible.

    • @ShmuckOnWheels
      @ShmuckOnWheels 3 года назад +6

      Me too. I bought The Brothers Johnson album when it came out in 76 or 77 but I was only 11 or 12 and didnt check writing credits.

    • @AJ-on-youtube
      @AJ-on-youtube 3 года назад +5

      I just found out about this version after checking to see if "Ms. Jackson" was using part of the Brothers Johnson song, only to discover that Outkast sampled THIS one, which the Brothers Johnson covered.

    • @EternalPhoenix33
      @EternalPhoenix33 2 года назад +3

      You should hear the Cee Lo Green version when he plays Shuggi the Panda from the new Disney+ original “Proud Family: Louder & Prouder 🤩🤩🤩🥰🥳😍

    • @Tusskie
      @Tusskie 2 года назад +6

      I grew up on the brothers Johnson version. Didn't know it wasn't the original lol

    • @iamjmunroe
      @iamjmunroe 2 года назад +1

      Same!

  • @darincampbell171
    @darincampbell171 2 года назад +63

    I think that The Brothers Johnson really did justice to this song! Their version is what made it a hit! I had never heard of this guy before. I thank him for writing a classic song! Peace.

  • @trarroyo
    @trarroyo 4 года назад +149

    The Brothers Johnson version is magnificent. Shuggie’s is transcendent.

    • @jaye501
      @jaye501 2 года назад +19

      shuggie was a friend of mine back in the day... i must have heard a hundred different versions of this song... he was always playing around with it.... btw he played every instrument on this album... shuggie was a genius that just wouldn't let the record companies dictate to him...

    • @seanoneil277
      @seanoneil277 Год назад +6

      I've heard the Bros Johnson version so many times over my lifetime, I remember when it was new/current on the radio. Much later I learned it was a Shuggie Otis song. Today I listen to it and think, Shuggie must have been born with music in his mind and heart. Musically it's a complex song and to put it together at 18, amazing really. I had HS friends who were good musicians but they weren't composing anything like this, not by many many miles.
      The Bros Johnson song is a great version, a great tribute that they make their own in small ways. A little better production, more range between the lows & highs and more prominent lows. It shows what a great song Shuggie Otis wrote at such a young age.

    • @jaye501
      @jaye501 Год назад +6

      @@seanoneil277 as i said i must have heard a hundred versions of this song as shuggie played around with it... But despite my loyalty to shuggie... I must admit that the brothers johnson version is by far the best version of it... The funk transformed it...

    • @Jay-gr9ij
      @Jay-gr9ij Год назад

      Totally agree

    • @Jay-gr9ij
      @Jay-gr9ij Год назад

      ​@jaye501 absolutely wonderful

  • @JohnnyHurbonConnections
    @JohnnyHurbonConnections 7 месяцев назад +34

    No pro tools just pure talent and drive

  • @fantastica9186
    @fantastica9186 8 месяцев назад +17

    I love the original version. He is wonderful. I love the stripped down sound.

    • @nickthabit420
      @nickthabit420 Месяц назад +1

      And Bros Johnson used all the original parts. There was no improving on it, just a bit more ornamentation and drive.

  • @maha77
    @maha77 2 года назад +73

    *_'A present, from you - Strawberry letter 22'_*
    one of the most beautiful poetic lines ever. I love how the title of the song is inferred from this line, but never used in the song

    • @ryanmccolloch4734
      @ryanmccolloch4734 2 года назад +18

      This song is his response to that present, truly poetic

    • @davidkemery129
      @davidkemery129 2 года назад +5

      I love how that just randomly pops into my head from time to time

    • @SmarterEgt
      @SmarterEgt Год назад +2

      Fully Agree.Only it's used in Both S L 22 tracks!

    • @Tony2Times-jn1jq
      @Tony2Times-jn1jq 11 месяцев назад

      What does strawberry letter 22 mean?

    • @timscott84
      @timscott84 10 месяцев назад +3

      22 straberry scented letters (assumed to be with the womans perfume), 23 is the reply from him back - continuing the title even without the perfume.​

  • @deltonhutchins337
    @deltonhutchins337 7 месяцев назад +11

    Thanks Shuggie for a masterpiece of a song.❤

  • @flashkellish
    @flashkellish 6 месяцев назад +7

    Absolutely blown away by this and at 61 had never heard it before, this jam is way ahead of its time.
    Where the Brothers Johnson copied its brilliance directly is unmistakable and Shuggie should have gotten far more credit. Share this as much as possible!

  • @christophercasarez5687
    @christophercasarez5687 8 лет назад +96

    I'm high on Shuggie Otis. especially the bridge outro. mind blown

  • @pepwin7
    @pepwin7 16 дней назад +2

    Amazed by the comments. I got introduced to this song and Shuggie at six years old. I just never knew where he went afterwards.

  • @ronbo11
    @ronbo11 4 года назад +40

    I loved catching Shuggie live in Oak Cliff, Texas a few years back. He still had that mojo working and had a great band backing him. Legend!

  • @nyangel515
    @nyangel515 11 месяцев назад +67

    He must have been high AF to write lyrics this beautiful.

    • @youngw1ze
      @youngw1ze 11 месяцев назад +15

      Everyone was on acid in those days....

    • @Calikaye
      @Calikaye 11 месяцев назад +6

      Right

    • @natethan2204
      @natethan2204 10 месяцев назад

      Just the lyrics? No. The whole song.

  • @davids2096
    @davids2096 5 месяцев назад +4

    There is something very enigmatic, ominous and magical about this song! It's something you can't find words for! He wrote a transcending and timeless classic! I dig both versions, The Brother's Johnson and his! Goodbye fellow??????? Until whenever!

  • @Nanbebe7
    @Nanbebe7 7 месяцев назад +8

    I was today years old when I found out about this version always enjoyed the brilliant lyrics ❤

  • @kateshaw1581
    @kateshaw1581 11 месяцев назад +31

    Why am I 48 and just finding g out about this master of music?❤

    • @ah7910
      @ah7910 11 месяцев назад +3

      We are always students, at least the brightest people are 😁 however much we grow in years, if the heart is curious, we have so many new things to discover around the corner

    • @Gatorsfan601
      @Gatorsfan601 11 месяцев назад +2

      I’m 49 and I’m today’s years old in knowing this.

  • @DIEFDEXTER
    @DIEFDEXTER Год назад +11

    We need to start a campaign to get Shuggie to do a boutique tour of North America and please come to San Francisco

    • @mstyles2667
      @mstyles2667 11 месяцев назад

      I AM HERE FOR THIS

  • @JesseFSegovia
    @JesseFSegovia 6 месяцев назад +7

    Shuggie, if you're reading this, please let me tell you what a blessing this song is. This is an amazing work of art! I was always blown away by the Brothers Johnston version but I was shocked when I first found out it was written, produced and performed by just one man. You're a miracle!

    • @JesseFSegovia
      @JesseFSegovia 6 месяцев назад +1

      And the great Lee Ritenour plays your dual guitar solo note-for-note! Not to mention the chords during that outro are Heavenly! How in the world did you think of that?

  • @porflepopnecker4376
    @porflepopnecker4376 3 года назад +51

    I didn't think that ethereal guitar part near the end would be as good in this version, but WOW. This version KILLS it.

  • @thelastofthebrohicans
    @thelastofthebrohicans 4 года назад +46

    The last 20 seconds is what joy sounds like🔥

  • @clintel3459
    @clintel3459 11 месяцев назад +2

    This song is a fantasyland alternative universe love letter. A phenomenal writer.

  • @alexchambers7671
    @alexchambers7671 16 дней назад +3

    Great Performance With Great Voice And Playing His Music Playing Outstanding!

  • @alienmesquito77
    @alienmesquito77 18 дней назад +2

    This song has been in my head for so long and couldn’t remember the lyrics but kept searching searching so many keywords and found it! Jan 2025, finally

  • @josephnix2912
    @josephnix2912 9 месяцев назад +5

    A timeless classic..And probably the coolest name in music!

  • @davidcurtis5298
    @davidcurtis5298 2 дня назад

    Didn't no nothing about you my brother Shuggie Otis your one bad musician, Strawberry Letter 23 one of my favorites song ever thank you brother for that song man that song got me threw some hard times in my life...

  • @jkmsaturn
    @jkmsaturn 4 года назад +38

    One of the greatest songs of the modern music era. Shuggie is so boss. The song really took flight when Quincy Jones & The Brothers Johnson reimagined the structure of the hit & turned a great song into gold.

  • @melissapurvis8230
    @melissapurvis8230 14 дней назад +2

    I don't know what to say! Oh my goodness, this was a hidden talent! I never knew this musician wrote and performed this song. I always thought it was the Brother's Johnson. I never knew or heard about this artist. I am glad that I came across this because now I am exploring his music. I definitely see some of Prince's influence in him. 💜💜💜

  • @royaldigitalmedia
    @royaldigitalmedia 3 года назад +61

    I heard Jay Z mention him in an interview. This is a lovely tune. Perfect.

    • @OfficialAfricanToto
      @OfficialAfricanToto 3 года назад +2

      Thats why im here

    • @porquefresco585
      @porquefresco585 3 года назад +1

      That’s what brought me here too!

    • @inganqwaba4338
      @inganqwaba4338 3 года назад +2

      Me too

    • @ATCDukes
      @ATCDukes 3 года назад +1

      Likewise

    • @njper123
      @njper123 3 года назад

      Yooooo!! I watched the same interview hahaha Jay’s hair look electrocuted in that interview lol

  • @alexhiguera8753
    @alexhiguera8753 5 лет назад +464

    And remember boys and girls: Shuggie was the one person who said NO to playing with the rolling stones.

    • @neckbone4941
      @neckbone4941 5 лет назад +53

      Fuck man. Thw Stones would've went to a whole nother eclipse had he joined forces. Wow.

    • @naturalista74
      @naturalista74 5 лет назад +14

      Wow

    • @scatrrr
      @scatrrr 4 года назад +29

      alex higuera The Stones, who were beginning to suck at that point, wouldn’t have wanted to be upstaged. Their choice of Ron Wood, who blended lifelessly into their woodwork, confirms that.

    • @rayjr62
      @rayjr62 4 года назад +24

      And remember, that on the Brothers Johnson version of this song, that arpeggio laden solo (with a capo placed at fret #2) was played by Lee Ritenour.

    • @alphaelkdmt3525
      @alphaelkdmt3525 4 года назад +3

      Really?

  • @michaelbenson9518
    @michaelbenson9518 Год назад +16

    Full circle of an amazing song. First heard the Bros. Johnson in 1977 when I was ten and loved it so. Now, at 55 I learn about the creator of this song and , wow, Shuggie!

  • @psykomystro
    @psykomystro 11 дней назад +1

    Phenomenal, raw... Someone mentioned that he was only 18 when he dropped this gem. That's cool, but he had a but of an advantage because it was in his blood from his parents were both musicians. Not to take away what a beautiful piece this is but something to consider.

  • @misakiyoshida
    @misakiyoshida 3 года назад +10

    Best version. The intro is worth its weight in gold alone

  • @RJPaul-px6vt
    @RJPaul-px6vt 5 лет назад +77

    This is the first time I have ever heard this song and I am in a very glorious and beautiful state of complete shock. What a moment! Right, reload......

  • @tonylamosa3
    @tonylamosa3 7 лет назад +91

    US Guitar Player elected this solo one of the 100 best guitar solos in history

    • @LaJoBa1
      @LaJoBa1 5 лет назад +4

      Wow!!

    • @1_Papa
      @1_Papa 4 года назад +8

      I tend to agree. Even the Brothers Johnson's version (which had jazz artist Lee Ritenour playing that famous coda) isn't as amazing as this original version. Good call by U.S. Guitar Player! 🎸!
      🐰

    • @deacontheseer4804
      @deacontheseer4804 3 года назад +3

      I definitely agree

    • @aj3974
      @aj3974 3 года назад +2

      I can see why

    • @LALakersNornIron
      @LALakersNornIron 3 года назад +2

      It's mesmerising isn't it??

  • @TBD3.0
    @TBD3.0 20 дней назад

    One of theeeee BEST songs EVER created. MAJESTIC HEAVENLY.

  • @jumpropemf
    @jumpropemf 9 месяцев назад +5

    I’m sitting in Panera Bread right now and this came on the speakers. I’ve known about the Brothers Johnson version for years but I never heard this one. I looked it up and discovered this is the original. My mind has been blown. Great song.

  • @lauriecastor6329
    @lauriecastor6329 Месяц назад +2

    I really LOVE this man!!!!! Brilliant!

  • @sadiethreat
    @sadiethreat 4 года назад +47

    I can’t stop hitting repeat.

  • @HeartReader57
    @HeartReader57 6 месяцев назад +2

    Wow, I was listening to the Brother's Johnson version from 1976 when I was 19 and found out about this original version for the first time at almost 68 years old. This man sang this in 1971, 5 years ahead of the Brother's Johnson release! Same musical beat!

  • @sparkybonehead
    @sparkybonehead 5 лет назад +124

    ...progressive soul music.

    • @lenr7137
      @lenr7137 4 года назад +8

      Yep. The outro sounds like a mix of Roundabout by Yes and Return of the Giant Hogweed by Genesis.

    • @brazilchem
      @brazilchem 3 года назад +4

      That was my exact thought

    • @DLaveaux
      @DLaveaux 2 года назад

      Yes 🔥❤️

  • @TonyVazquez8265
    @TonyVazquez8265 Год назад +9

    WOW! How on Earth have I never heard THIS Original version?!
    I'm 58yo and I grew up with the Brothers Johnson's version which I love. But THIS is so beautiful!
    Well, I now have learned the origin of this song! 🤘🤩👍

  • @LALakersNornIron
    @LALakersNornIron 3 года назад +23

    Sitting relaxing, drink in hand, close your eyes, play this. Takes you on a journey. Amazing song. Amazing guitar sequence at the end.

  • @rudolphjackson901
    @rudolphjackson901 2 месяца назад +1

    Wow never knew about him or this version to think this brother was only 18 atbthe time is really mind blowing such abgift and talent from GOD🙏🏽🔥

  • @Mastermix1983
    @Mastermix1983 8 лет назад +167

    An I thought it was originally by The Brothers Johnson. I Love this one too.

    • @bman99ss
      @bman99ss 8 лет назад +21

      I didn't learn until today that The Brothers Johnson didn't originally do this song . . .

    • @tomwilson8607
      @tomwilson8607 6 лет назад +3

      wrong dick head,, shuggie wrote it ,,

    • @d.c.8828
      @d.c.8828 4 года назад +38

      @@tomwilson8607 Calm down there, big fella.

    • @lwmson
      @lwmson 4 года назад +1

      It was the other way around.

    • @richmod
      @richmod 4 года назад +11

      @@tomwilson8607 why so rude and insulting?

  • @MAArch-ec7se
    @MAArch-ec7se 20 дней назад

    Wow! Super impressive. Hoping Shuggie gets his FLOWERS💐🍓🍓💌. An amazing humble guy🍓👏

  • @dnate697
    @dnate697 3 года назад +10

    I first heard of him in 1981 in Germany! Love the Phase Shifter in this recording:)

  • @jasonito23
    @jasonito23 9 месяцев назад +6

    Just listened to this reading the lyrics. This man was higher than a kite when he wrote this.

  • @stevescontriano860
    @stevescontriano860 Год назад +8

    Wow. Amazing. He’s the most famous musician you’ve never heard of. That just great

  • @MzMarrow
    @MzMarrow 7 месяцев назад +8

    Just discovered this hidden gem today.

  • @dougsweldingfabrication953
    @dougsweldingfabrication953 Год назад +4

    One of my favorite songs of the time.... Now I get to hear it from the writer... amazing

  • @deedee-tc4fh
    @deedee-tc4fh 4 месяца назад +1

    Heard it on the radio the other day.. It is a breath of fresh air..

  • @rubenperez3882
    @rubenperez3882 4 года назад +24

    Truly a great song! Even more impressive that he wrote it when he was 18.

  • @highlightoftheday7058
    @highlightoftheday7058 20 дней назад +1

    When I heard a clip of this I remembered hearing it somewhere. Then found out it was The Brothers Johnson. That was a very good version, but I love this original slower version more. Thank you Shugie for this beautiful song ( I will have to check out your other works)

  • @maygeewalker5901
    @maygeewalker5901 Год назад +8

    My daughter gave me this song truly amazing and genius makes me cry all the time for some unknown reason. Its beautiful like her

  • @tallasianguy42
    @tallasianguy42 27 дней назад +1

    Legendary. No other words except for the ones I’m using to say that there are no other words, like these ones.

  • @mabelmabel2954
    @mabelmabel2954 2 года назад +11

    Its his voice..every time it goes up or down it makes my heart flutter

  • @TheSecretninja2001
    @TheSecretninja2001 2 месяца назад +1

    This song is just so pretty 🥰 I love the lyrics so much, just incredible writing, poetry and story telling. I feel bad that I'm just now discovering the original version and I hope Shuggie Otis knows how loved his song is. 🥰

  • @stormbringercoming8105
    @stormbringercoming8105 2 года назад +12

    He was Prince before Prince was Prince!

  • @TheYunababy77
    @TheYunababy77 День назад

    Music lives and breathes!!!

  • @hermanphillips144
    @hermanphillips144 4 года назад +22

    If I remember correctly, he played all the instruments on this album as well. Amazing.

  • @blackrosebae96
    @blackrosebae96 10 месяцев назад +1

    Listen to him and this song for the first time, and I can say Im now a Shuggie fan 🙌🏾