Bill Withers – “Just the Two of Us”
Released: 1981 (as a single)
Album: Winelight by Grover Washington, Jr.
Peak Chart Positions:
- No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100
- No. 2 on the Adult Contemporary Singles Chart
- No. 3 on the R&B Singles Chart
About the Song
“Just the Two of Us” is a smooth, soulful classic that masterfully blends Bill Withers’ emotive vocals with Grover Washington, Jr.’s sublime saxophone. Written by Bill Withers, William Salter, and Ralph MacDonald, the song is a heartfelt ode to love and togetherness, celebrated for its timeless elegance and romantic sentiment.
This track was first featured on Grover Washington, Jr.’s 1980 album Winelight and became one of the defining songs of the early 1980s, recognized for its silky production and undeniable groove.
The Creative Process
The song originated with Salter and MacDonald, who composed the melody and basic lyrics. They approached Withers to sing it, and Withers agreed—on one condition. He wanted to refine the lyrics to better reflect his lyrical style. As he described in interviews, he sought to add a touch of poetic sophistication to the song, resulting in iconic lines like “And darling when the morning comes, and I see the morning sun, I want to be the one with you.”
Withers’ contribution was transformative, adding depth and emotional resonance to an already beautiful composition.
Radio and Chart Success
The original album version of “Just the Two of Us” ran for over seven minutes—an epic length that wasn’t suitable for mainstream radio. A shorter, more radio-friendly version was created, clocking in at just under four minutes.
The single became a massive hit in 1981, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts worldwide. Its blend of smooth jazz and R&B made it a cross-genre success, appealing to a broad audience.
Legacy
“Just the Two of Us” remains a quintessential love song, celebrated for its soothing saxophone melody, memorable lyrics, and Withers’ heartfelt performance. Its themes of intimacy and commitment have kept it relevant over the decades, and it has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials.
The song has inspired numerous covers and reinterpretations, ensuring its place as one of the great romantic classics in modern music history.
