I've Got to Use My Imagination

Joan Osborne

About I've Got to Use My Imagination

"I've Got to Use My Imagination" is a song recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips. Released from the hit album, Imagination, which was their debut album with Buddah Records, the song was a success on the soul and pop charts. It spent a week at number one on the Hot Soul Singles chart in early 1974 and peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of their highest charting songs. It eventually sold over one million copies. On the series A Different World, Whitley, Jaleesa and another classmate perform the song to audition to sing backup for Gladys Knight (who made a special guest appearance on the show). The song has been covered by such artists as Joan Osborne, Professor RJ Ross, Bobby Bland, Joe Cocker and The Rides. Ian Moss recorded a version for his sixth studio album, Soul on West 53rd (2009). 


Year:
2007
4:06
68 
#1

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I've really got to use my imagination
To think of good reasons
To keep on keepin' on

Got to make the best of a bad situation
Ever since that day
I woke up and found
That you were gone

Darkness all around me
Blackin' out the sun
Old friends call me
But I just don't feel like talkin' to anyone

Emptiness has found me
And it just won't let me go
I go right on livin'
But why I just don't know

Staring down reality
Don't do me no good
'Cause our misunderstanding
Is too well understood

Such a sad, sad season
When a good love dies.
Not a day goes by
When I don't realize

I've really got to use my imagination
To think of good reasons
To keep on keepin' on

I got to make the best of a bad situation
Ever since that day
I woke up and found
That you were gone

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Joan Osborne

Joan Elizabeth Osborne (born July 8, 1962) is an American singer-songwriter. She is best known for her song "One of Us". She has toured with Motown sidemen the Funk Brothers and was featured in the documentary film about them, Standing in the Shadows of Motown. more »

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Written by: Barry Goldberg, Gerry Goffin

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


5 facts about this song

Song Creation
"I've Got to Use My Imagination" was written by Gerry Goffin and Barry Goldberg. The songwriting duo had previously created a number of hits for other artists.
Gladys Knight & the Pips
The song was a big hit for Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1973. It's one of their most iconic songs. - It was released as a single from their "Imagination" album in 1973 and quickly climbed the charts. - "I've got to Use My Imagination" reached number 1 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and number 4 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart. - The song showcased the soulful and emotive vocals of the group's lead singer, Gladys Knight, and it was recognized with a Grammy nomination in 1974.
Joan Osborne
Joan Osborne covered "I've Got to Use My Imagination" on her 2007 release, "Breakfast in Bed." - Osborne's version traded the original's soulful pop sound for a more bluesy and gritty interpretation. - This contemporary cover was included alongside other soul and R&B classics on the album and was well received by critics and fans alike.
Joe Cocker
Joe Cocker recorded his rendition of "I've Got to Use My Imagination" for his album "Hymn for My Soul" in 2007. - Known for his gravelly voice and emotive delivery, Cocker brought his own unique style to the song. - It showcased Cocker's ability to take popular songs and make them his own, something he was legendary for from iconic tracks like The Beatles' "With a Little Help from My Friends."
Song's Impact
Not only was "I've Got to Use My Imagination" a commercial success, but it also carried a positive message that resonated with many people. - The song's theme of perseverance and using one's imagination to overcome trials and tribulations has been a source of inspiration for many. - It has been covered by numerous artists in various genres, further exemplifying its broad appeal and timeless message. - The song remains one of Gladys Knight & the Pips' most enduring hits and continues to be a staple in their live performances.

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