Cheaper to Keep Her - Johnnie Taylor
"Cheaper to Keep Her" is a classic soul song by Johnnie Taylor, released in 1973. The track explores the common theme of a man realizing that it would be financially and emotionally better for him to stay in a relationship rather than go through the pain of a costly divorce. The lyrics depict the struggles and complexities of relationships, highlighting the difficult decisions that individuals are often faced with when it comes to love and money. The composition of the song is characterized by a soulful melody, with Taylor's smooth vocals delivering the heartfelt lyrics with passion and conviction. The track features a catchy chorus and a bluesy instrumental arrangement, including a prominent piano and brass section that adds depth and soul to the overall sound. Notable facts about "Cheaper to Keep Her" include its success on the charts, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of Taylor's signature songs. The track has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a beloved classic in the world of soul music. Its timeless themes of love, relationships, and financial struggles continue to resonate with listeners of all generations, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music.
Johnnie Taylor
Johnnie Taylor was an American singer-songwriter who is best known for his contributions to the soul and R&B genres. Born on May 5, 1934, in Crawfordsville, Arkansas, Taylor grew up surrounded by music, as his father was a gospel singer. This early exposure to music would influence Taylor's own musical career later in life. Taylor began singing in church choirs as a child and later joined a gospel group called the Highway QCs. In the late 1950s, he transitioned to secular music and joined the doo-wop group The Five Echoes. It was during this time that Taylor developed his smooth, soulful voice that would become his trademark. In the 1960s, Taylor signed with Stax Records and released several successful singles, including "Who's Making Love" and "Jody's Got Your Girl and Gone." These songs helped solidify Taylor's reputation as a talented soul singer and earned him a large following of fans. One of Taylor's biggest achievements came in 1976 when he released his album "Eargasm," which included the hit single "Disco Lady." The song became Taylor's first and only number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying his status as a music icon. Throughout his career, Taylor received numerous awards and accolades for his music, including several Grammy nominations. He was also inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2000, recognizing his contributions to the soul and R&B genres. Johnnie Taylor's impact on music can still be felt today, as his smooth vocals and soulful style continue to influence artists in various genres. His ability to blend elements of gospel, soul, and R&B helped pave the way for future generations of musicians and solidified his place as a true music legend. Though Taylor passed away in 2000, his music continues to be celebrated and appreciated by fans around the world.