The Brothers Johnson Strawberry Letter 23 Lyrics
When it comes to funk music, few bands can match the groove and soul of The Brothers Johnson. One of their most famous songs, "Strawberry Letter 23," has become a classic that still resonates with fans today. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the lyrics of this funky jam and explore its history and meaning. So put on your dancing shoes and let's get grooving!
The History of The Brothers Johnson
The Brothers Johnson were formed in the early 1970s by brothers George and Louis Johnson. They were discovered by Quincy Jones, who produced their first album, "Look Out for #1," which included the hit single "Get the Funk Out Ma Face." The brothers continued to release successful albums throughout the 70s and 80s, blending funk, soul, and jazz into a unique sound that still holds up today. "Strawberry Letter 23" was released in 1977 as a single from their album "Right on Time."
The Lyrics of "Strawberry Letter 23"
The lyrics of "Strawberry Letter 23" are both cryptic and poetic, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that perfectly matches the funky groove of the song. The song begins with the lines:
Hello my love,I heard a kiss from youRed magic satin playing near, tooAll through the morning rain I gazeThe sun doesn't shineRainbows and waterfalls run through my mind
These lines set the stage for the dreamlike world of the song, where the speaker is lost in thoughts of love and fantasy. The "red magic satin" is a reference to the sensuousness of love, while the "rainbows and waterfalls" suggest a vivid and colorful world that exists only in the imagination.
The chorus of the song is perhaps the most recognizable part:
Strawberry letter 22The music plays, I sit in for a fewOoh, ooh, ooh, ooh, oohStrawberry letter 22The music plays, I sit in for a fewOoh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
These lines are repeated throughout the song, creating a hypnotic effect that draws the listener deeper into the groove. The "strawberry letter" is never explained, but it seems to represent a secret message from the speaker's lover, a code that only they can understand.
Other lines in the song continue the dreamlike and surreal tone:
I feel I must be weak'Cause my heart skips a beat
Here, the speaker is overwhelmed by the power of their emotions, so much so that it feels like weakness. The line "my heart skips a beat" is a common cliché in love songs, but here it takes on a deeper meaning, suggesting a sense of disorientation and loss of control.
The Meaning of "Strawberry Letter 23"
So what does "Strawberry Letter 23" actually mean? The truth is, it's hard to say. The lyrics are intentionally vague and open to interpretation, allowing each listener to create their own meaning. Some have suggested that the song is about a drug trip, while others see it as a meditation on the power of love and imagination. Still others think it's simply a funky jam with no deeper meaning at all.
Whatever your interpretation, one thing is clear: "Strawberry Letter 23" is a classic funk song that still grooves today. The combination of George and Louis Johnson's tight musicianship, Quincy Jones' expert production, and the cryptic yet poetic lyrics make it a song that rewards repeated listens. So turn up the volume and let the groove take you away!