Just the Two of Us (feat. Bill Withers) - Grover Washington, Jr.
"Just the Two of Us" is a classic R&B/soul track performed by Grover Washington, Jr. featuring the legendary Bill Withers on vocals. The song was released in 1980 as a single from Washington's album "Winelight." The theme of the song revolves around love and companionship, with Withers crooning about the joy of being with a loved one and the magic that happens when they are together. The lyrics speak of a deep connection between two people and the happiness that comes from sharing special moments with each other. Musically, the track is smooth and soulful, featuring Washington's signature smooth jazz saxophone playing alongside Withers' soulful vocals. The song is known for its catchy melody, laid-back groove, and memorable chorus that is instantly recognizable to fans of R&B music. "Just the Two of Us" was a commercial success, reaching the top 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song. The song has since become a classic in the R&B genre and continues to be a favorite among music lovers around the world. Overall, "Just the Two of Us" is a timeless love song that showcases the incredible talent of both Grover Washington, Jr. and Bill Withers. Its smooth sound and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect choice for romantic moments or simply relaxing and enjoying good music.
Grover Washington, Jr.
Grover Washington, Jr. was a renowned American saxophonist, composer, and arranger who played a significant role in shaping the landscape of contemporary jazz music. Born on December 12, 1943, in Buffalo, New York, Washington grew up in a musically inclined family and began playing saxophone at an early age. He was heavily influenced by the likes of Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, and Cannonball Adderley. After graduating from high school, Washington moved to Philadelphia, where he quickly established himself as a talented saxophonist, known for his unique blend of jazz, funk, and soul music. In the early 1970s, he signed with the Kudu label, a subsidiary of CTI Records, and released his debut album, "Inner City Blues," in 1971. The album was a critical and commercial success, establishing Washington as a rising star in the jazz world. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Washington continued to release a string of successful albums, including "Mister Magic" (1975), "Winelight" (1980), and "Just the Two of Us" (1981), a collaboration with Bill Withers that became one of his most popular songs. His smooth and soulful playing style, coupled with his innovative use of electric instruments, helped to redefine the sound of contemporary jazz and attracted a diverse audience of both jazz aficionados and mainstream music fans. In addition to his solo work, Washington was also a highly sought-after session musician, collaborating with artists such as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder. He won two Grammy Awards for his work, including Best Jazz Fusion Performance for "Winelight" in 1981. Grover Washington, Jr. passed away on December 17, 1999, at the age of 56, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking music that continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day. His contributions to the world of jazz music have earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of greats and solidified his reputation as one of the most influential saxophonists of his generation.