Percy Sledge’s soulful rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman” is often cited as the definitive version, leading many to believe he was the first to record it. However, the story behind who first recorded “when a man loves a woman” is a bit more complicated and involves another artist entirely. This article delves into the fascinating history of this iconic song, exploring its origins and the artists who brought it to life.

Unraveling the Mystery of “When a Man Loves a Woman”

The song we all know and love, etched into our collective memory by Percy Sledge’s powerful vocals, actually began with a group called The Escorts. This relatively unknown soul group from Alabama, featuring Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright, first recorded “When a Man Loves a Woman” in 1965 at the Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals. Their version, while similar in theme and emotion, had a distinctly different arrangement than the later, more famous rendition. While The Escorts laid the groundwork, it was Percy Sledge who catapulted the song into the stratosphere of musical history.

Percy Sledge and the Rise to Fame

In 1966, Percy Sledge, a hospital orderly with a passion for singing, re-recorded “When a Man Loves a Woman” with producer Quin Ivy. Sledge’s raw, emotive vocals transformed the song, adding a layer of vulnerability and heartache that resonated deeply with listeners. His version quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, solidifying its place as a soul classic and becoming synonymous with the feeling of deep, passionate love.

The Escorts’ Legacy and the Song’s Enduring Power

While Percy Sledge achieved monumental success with the song, the contribution of The Escorts shouldn’t be overlooked. Their original recording, while less commercially successful, provides a valuable glimpse into the song’s evolution and the creative process behind its creation. The story of “When a Man Loves a Woman” is a testament to the power of interpretation and how different artists can shape a song in unique and powerful ways.

Who Sang It Best? A Matter of Personal Taste

Often, debates arise about which version is superior. The Escorts’ rendition offers a raw, almost bluesy feel, highlighting the instrumentation and showcasing a different perspective on the lyrics. Sledge’s version, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of emotion, driven by his unforgettable vocal performance. Ultimately, deciding who sang “when a man loves a woman” best is a matter of personal preference.

What inspired “When a Man Loves a Woman”?

The inspiration for the song is attributed to Calvin Lewis’s personal heartbreak after his girlfriend left him for a bass player. This personal experience imbued the song with an authenticity and raw emotion that continues to resonate with listeners today.

Was “When a Man Loves a Woman” a one-hit wonder?

While “When a Man Loves a Woman” is undoubtedly Percy Sledge’s most famous song, he continued to record and perform throughout his career, releasing several albums and charting with other singles. However, none achieved the same level of iconic status as his signature hit.

A Timeless Classic

Regardless of who first recorded “when a man loves a woman,” the song’s enduring popularity speaks volumes about its emotional power and timeless message. From The Escorts’ initial recording to Percy Sledge’s legendary rendition, the song has captured the hearts of generations and continues to be a testament to the universal experience of love and loss.

FAQ

1. Who originally wrote “When a Man Loves a Woman”? Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright are credited with writing the song.
2. In what year did Percy Sledge record his version? 1966.
3. Did The Escorts have any other hits? The Escorts are primarily known for their original recording of “When a Man Loves a Woman” and didn’t achieve widespread fame with other songs.
4. What genre is “When a Man Loves a Woman”? Soul.
5. Where was Percy Sledge from? Percy Sledge was from Leighton, Alabama.
6. Who played the instruments on Percy Sledge’s recording? Muscle Shoals session musicians, known as the Swampers, played on the recording.
7. What key is “When a Man Loves a Woman” in? The song is typically performed in the key of C major.

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