Just to Be Close to You - Commodores (1976) 5/12/22

Congratulations to Lionel Ritchie: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2022!

Lionel certainly deserves it...but the question many people (including me) are asking is: "But what about The Commodores?"

Throughout the '70s, Lionel was a key member of the group: writing, singing, playing the piano and saxophone, etc. But in the end, he was a member of the ENSEMBLE.

He didn't go solo until the '80s, and he made the Hall based on his amazing solo career. Nothing wrong with that--many others have done the same thing...but still...

Anyway, because this blog is about '70s music--and to honor The Commodores as well as Lionel himself, today we're highlighting a song from 1976--written, and spoken/sung by Lionel, but a group effort nonetheless.

In the words of Cashbox Magazine: "Just to be Close to You" features a terrific spoken introduction, packed with soul, that gives way to a truly beautiful ballad."

Exactly.

On Billboard's Soul Chart, it spent 2 weeks at #1. On the Hot 100, it peaked at #7.

"Just to be Close to You" by The Commodores--featuring Lionel Ritchie: a "Great Song of 1976.

Congrats to Lionel. Let's hope the rest of the Commodores join you in the Hall-of-Fame real soon!