Why Can't We Live Together

Timmy Thomas

About Why Can't We Live Together

"Why Can't We Live Together" is a song by Timmy Thomas from the album Why Can't We Live Together. The song is notable for being recorded in mono; its sparse, stripped-down production, features a Lowrey organ, bossa nova-style percussion from an early rhythm machine, and Thomas's passionate, soulful vocal. Thomas recorded a demo at Dukoff Recording Studios in North Miami, Florida, with Bill Borkan acting as sound engineer. The single version got more airplay because the longer instrumental coda was considered by many radio stations to be closer to jazz. TK Records staff producer Steve Alaimo listened to the demo of the song and was going to re-cut it with a full band, but then decided the song was already finished the way it was. Released as a single in late 1972, the song became a major hit in the U. S. during the early part of 1973, reaching the number one spot on the R&B chart, number three on the Billboard Pop Singles and eventually selling over two million copies. The song became his only hit single. It was also a hit in the UK, peaking at #12. There was a re-release on 7" and 12" in 1979, with a live version as B-side on the 7" European release. more »

Year:: 2007
: 4:49
: 75 Views
Playlists:: #1

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Timmy Thomas

Timmy Thomas (born November 13, 1944) is an American R&B singer, keyboardist, songwriter and record producer, best known for the hit song, "Why Can't We Live Together". more »

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12 facts about this song

Release Date "Why Can't We Live Together" was released in 1972 on the album of the same name.
Single Performance The song was a major hit and reached number three on the Billboard Pop Singles chart and number one on the R&B chart in 1973.
Song Genre "Why Can't We Live Together" belongs to the Soul music genre.
Specific Instrumentation Timmy Thomas played both the organ and drum machine, which were the only instruments used on the track, making it stand out for its minimalistic design.
Story Behind the Song The song was inspired by news reports Timmy Thomas heard about race riots and war, causing him to wonder, "Why can't we live together?"
Noteworthy Cover Version R&B singer Sade covered "Why Can't We Live Together" for her 'Soldier of Love' album in 2010.
Contribution to Music The song is often considered as one of the earliest examples of electronic music due to its minimalist instrumentation.
Worldwide Success The single has sold over 2 million copies, with Gold certification in the United States and Silver in the United Kingdom.
Unique Record The song was recorded and released on Henry Stone's Glades label, staying on the US pop chart for 12 weeks.
Significant Message “Why Can't We Live Together" has a strong socio-political message advocating for peace and unity, making it timeless and relevant even decades after its release.
Sampling The song has been sampled in numerous tracks, most prominently in MC Hammer's "Pray" and Drake's "Hotline Bling."
Influence on Artists The song's minimalistic style has been cited as an influence to artists who create lo-fi and bedroom pop music.

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"Why Can't We Live Together Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 19 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/14027492/Timmy+Thomas/Why+Can%27t+We+Live+Together>.

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