Strawberry Letter 23

Shuggie Otis

About Strawberry Letter 23

"Strawberry Letter 23" is a 1971 song written and composed by Shuggie Otis from his 1971 album Freedom Flight. It is best known by the 1977 cover version recorded by the Brothers Johnson and produced by Quincy Jones.


Year:
1971
3:57
57 
#1

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Hello my love, I heard a kiss from you
Red magic satin playing near, too
All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine
Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind

In the garden, I see
West purple shower bells and tea
Orange birds and river cousins
Dressed in green

Pretty music, I hear
So happy and loud
Blue flower echo
From a cherry cloud

Feel sunshine sparkle pink and blue
Playgrounds will laugh
If you try to ask
"Is it cool?"

If you arrive and don't see me
I'm going to be with my baby
I am free, flying in her arms
Over the sea

Stained window, yellow candy screen
See speakers of kite
With velvet roses diggin'
Freedom flight

A present from you
Strawberry letter 22
The music plays
I sit in for a few

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh

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Shuggie Otis

Shuggie Otis (born Johnny Alexander Veliotes, Jr.; November 30, 1953) is an American singer-songwriter, recording artist, and multi-instrumentalist. more »

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Written by: Shuggie Otis

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Authorship
"Strawberry Letter 23" is originally written and composed by American musician Shuggie Otis.
First Release
Otis first released it as a track on his 1971 album "Freedom Flight."
Popular Version
The song became widely known and popular when it was covered by the American funk band The Brothers Johnson and produced by Quincy Jones.
Release Date of The Cover Version
Brothers Johnson's version of "Strawberry Letter 23" was released in 1977.
Chart Performance
The Brothers Johnson's version reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and was their second single to reach number one on the Soul singles chart.
Unique Instrumentation
The original version of "Strawberry Letter 23" by Shuggie Otis features a unique usage of sound effects including the ringing of wind chimes.
Meaning of the Song
The "23" in the title of the song refers to the 23rd love letter the composer received from his girlfriend, the one that happens to be written on strawberry-scented paper.
Critical Acclaim
Both the original and the cover have been highly-praised by critics over the years, for their melodic sophistication, unique sound, and lyrical creativity.
Media Usage
The song is often used in various media platforms, including the film "Jackie Brown" and the video game "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas".
Multiple Covers
Apart from Brother's Johnson, the song has been covered by numerous artists such as Tevin Campbell, Beyoncé, and Philippé Wynne.
Earning Recognition
In 1996, British music magazine NME named "Strawberry Letter 23" the 37th greatest psychedelic song of all time.
Legacy
Although Shuggie Otis didn't earn substantial commercial success during his career, he gained a cult following and substantial respect among his peers, with "Strawberry Letter 23" being a testament to his creativity.

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