13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key

Reading Time: 21 min read

13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key features songs by Durand Bernarr, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Moroney, Simon & Garfunkel, Tove Lo, and Valerie Simpson.

“Am I (Am I) okay?”

You tell us, Durand Bernarr. Are you? Country singer-songwriter Megan Moroney asked the same question in a different context: “I think I’m really happy, I think I wanna stay / Oh, my God, am I okay?” Notably, not only did Moroney sing the featured verb of 13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key, but she also threw the contraction, I’m, as in I am, into the mix. That brings up Tove Lo, who serves up the am action via contraction, too. Four words: “I’m your girl, right?” 13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key is all about the popular verb, including the contraction form! It features AM-tastic songs by Durand Bernarr, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Moroney, Simon & Garfunkel, Tove Lo, and Valerie Simpson. So, without further ado, let’s embrace the power of A-M on 13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key!

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1. Durand Bernarr, “AM I OKAY?!”

2. Tove Lo, “I’m your girl right?”

3. The Other Realm, “Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?)”

4. Megan Moroney, “Am I Okay?”

5. Ayham, “I AM A STAR, BITCH”

6. Lizzo, “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)”

7. The Irrepressibles, “What I Am! Queer”

8. Kandi, “Don’t Think I’m Not”

9. Kendrick Lamar, “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst”

10. Jennifer Holliday, “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”

11. Michael Bolton, “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You”

12. Valerie Simpson, “I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride”

13. Simon & Garfunkel, “I Am a Rock”

1. Durand Bernarr, “AM I OKAY?!”

BERNARR. » Durand Bernarr / DSING RECORDS / Create Music Group Inc. » 2026

“Might just figure it out, wanna figure it out / Could you figure it out with me?”

What’s to figure out? Durand Bernarr is one hell of a sickening artist! Unveiling a new album, BERNARR., following a fantastic “Wild Ride” with James Fauntleroy, the Grammy winner asks the question, musically, “AM I OKAY?!”. Whether our handsome, talented fella is or isn’t, what is far more than OKAY is the song. Once again, Durand does the damn thing, PERIODT. He wrote this bop alongside Miguel, Sevyn Streeter, B.K. Habermehl, Choklate (Kolesta Moore), and Ray Angry. He produced it with Donnie Scantz and Jahi Sundance.

Yes, there are lots of writers and producers, but the results are well worth it. The musical backdrop is electrifying. It is groovy, sleekly produced, and perfect fuel for Durand’s vocal fire. Thundercat ate and left no crumbs on the bass! That said, Bernarr doesn’t need much motivation to deliver a top-notch performance. He sounds commanding, confident, expressive, and nuanced, and gives us all the things. Those runs? Ooh-wee! It seems like every time he picks up the mic, he’s on autopilot. That is the case on “AM I OKAY?!” where he delivers another authentic performance that oozes with grit and soul. Beyond his voice, the melodies catch the ears the first time you hear the song. The theme and lyrics are memorable, too. Durand is in a vulnerable state, admitting, “I’m a loner, and as sad as that may seem / Doctor, I just wanna know, oh.” What does he want to know? Per the chorus and titular lyric, “Am I (Am I) okay?” The second verse grows spicier, thanks in part to a timely f-bomb: “I think I ran out of fucks / ‘Cause something ‘bout it don’t make sense.” What’s he referencing? Life, specifically matters of the heart. On the bridge, he cleverly uses the metaphor of being on the road, trying to get home. The heartfelt “AM I OKAY?!” is simply irresistible even if DB seems to be on the struggle bus.

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2. Tove Lo, “I’m your girl right?”

ESTRUS » Pretty Swede Records » 2026

“I’m your girl, right? / Love me hard, it’s not my first time.”

Noted, Tove Lo (Ebba Tove Elsa Nilsson). The Swedish pop singer-songwriter precedes her sixth studio album, ESTRUS, with the lead single, “I’m your girl right?”. She wrote “I’m your girl right?” with producer A Strut. “I’m your girl right?” begins with Tove Lo singing the titular lyrics abruptly; she wastes no time. Eventually, the lyrics reappear in the song’s crowning achievement, the memorable and tuneful chorus.

“I’m your girl, right?

Love me hard, it’s not my first time

I’m your girl, right?

Heart still aches, you wanna hurt mine

Tell me what I wanna hear now

Don’t make me doubt

I’m your girl, right?

Love me hard, it’s not my first time.”

Beyond the chorus, the verses and pre-chorus shine. Tove Lo delivers playful, well-rounded vocals from the opening to the closing tip. “Come brake me in, all horses win for you,” she sings in the second verse, and concludes, “We fuck all night on Ritalin-lin-lin-lin.” Wow! She gets fuel for the fire thanks to the sleek musical accompaniment. The driving, rhythmic groove takes the cake. Beyond the lit beat, the dance-pop cues stand out – the house piano, synths, and such. With “I’m your girl right?”, Tove Lo drops an enjoyable bop that has some edge.

Appears in 🔻:

Striking Bops from May 2026

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3. The Other Realm, “Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?)”

“Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?)” » Big Hat Club » 2026

“What am I doing here? / I need to take my ass home right now.”

Woo! Ah, The Other Realm (Kenneth Ward) is honest about being in an uncomfortable place. This place is not his scene or his jam, and he knows it! “Whoa whoa whoa my new song is about crashing out in the club because so out of place,” Ward says of his single, colorful, awkward, undie-driven single, “Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?)”. Raise your hand if you have been in a similar predicament, one where you knew with all your heart that you needed to take your ass home! Maybe it didn’t involve underwear though… Anyway, the fierce and handsome alternative pop singer-songwriter’s discomfort is our listening pleasure on “Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?)” which he wrote himself.

There is a lot to ‘heart’ about “Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?).” First and foremost, Kenneth delivers a spirited performance. He is playful and quite tongue-in-cheek. Sometimes, he sings. Sometimes he talks-sings. Sometimes, he chants. Whatever he does, it’s entertaining! Slay fella! The theme and lyrics play a pivotal role too. And honestly, underwear never gets boring, whether you’re a kid giggling about it, an adult feeling awkward, or perhaps sneaking a peek at that hot guy who wears them extraordinarily well. “This ain’t my thing, but I’m trying to have a good time / The music’s loud, and I feel like I can’t breathe right,” he sings, and continues, “Sexy show and tell, this is my personal hell / I feel so invisible, and it kind of fucking smells, eww!” The verses and pre-chorus are alluring, but the most memorable section is the chorus, expectedly:

“What am I doin’ here? What am I doin’ here?

I wanna fit in, but I wanna disappear

Everyone’s having fun, but I’m on the verge of tears

What am I doin’ here? What am I doin’ here?”

Beyond the singing and lyrics, “Underwear Party” features solid production. What makes it slap? The rhythmic synths and the electrifying groove give club and party vibes. The colorful production ups the ante. That includes some fine electric guitar soloing and riffs towards the end. Although it’s not his scene, The Other Realm does the damn thing on “Underwear Party (What Am I Doing Here?)”.

Appears in 🔻:

Striking Bops from July 2026
15 Songs Where the Apparel is King (2026)

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4. Megan Moroney, “Am I Okay?”

Am I Okay? » Megan Moroney / Sony Music Entertainment » 2024

“I check my pulse and my heart’s still beating / Exhale I think I’m still breathin’ / Both feet on the ground, but something’s changed.”

You sound like you are alive, Megan Moroney (b. 1997). That said, what’s changed? What’s different? And, how drastic is it, girl?! The answer is, she’s in L-O-V-E, love, hence why she asks, “Am I Okay?” “Am I Okay?” is the opener from her 2024 gold-certified album, Am I Okay?. She wrote “Am I Okay?” with Jessie Jo Dillon and Luke Laird. Kristian Bush produced it.

Love has got Megan questioning herself. In the second verse, she highlights the newfound virtues of [some] guys, despite previous bad experiences. “Who knew guys still brought flowers,” she sings, and adds, “And wait, there’s guys that can communicate.” It is shocking when you think about it! Her falling in love with love again is crystal clear in the centerpiece of the record, the chorus:

“And then, oh, my God, he walked in

Like a 6’2” dream heaven sent

HE says what he means, and he means what he says

And he’s funny, and he’s smart

And he’s good in –

Maybe love ain’t always what it was

Not cryin’ and dyin’, and messin’ me up

I think I’m really happy, I think I wanna stay

Oh, my God, am I okay?”

Ooh-wee! She had me at the 6’2” 🤭! Maroney sings well, marvelously expressing the delightful feeling of love. The sound is country, but not too country – there’s enough pop crossover 😉. “Am I Okay?” earned Maroney a top 40 pop hit. It peaked at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2025. Furthermore, the single was certified multiplatinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Kind of a big deal? You bet!

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5. Ayham, “I AM A STAR, BITCH”

I AM A STAR, BITCH (EP) » Ayham » 2025

Listen up, bitches! Ayham (Ayham Fayad) makes it clear, with ample repetition, “I’m a star, bitch, I’m a, I’m a star, bitch.” The hot 🥵, sassy 💅 German-based singer-songwriter asserts in a TikTok video, My name is Ayham, and I create music for the f*gs, dolls, and cvnts. “I AM A STAR, BITCH” fiercely and fittingly opens his 2025 EP, I AM A STAR, BITCH (EP). Beyond the simple but unforgettable chorus, Ayham eats! He leaves no crumbs…bih! He co-produced it with Noah Grewing.

“I AM A STAR, BITCH” opens fiercely with dramatic strings. After some intriguing classical music cues, the backdrop transforms into a mean-sounding, hip-hop cut. Here, Ayham brings a shit-ton of attitude, confidence, and personality. He delivers a fast-paced, kick-ass cadence and flow. “When I pass by, you better make a wish, bitch / Bling-bling, diamonds on me, I’m so vicious,” he spits in the first verse, continuing, “Hustling, I’m making these riches / I’m it, bitch.” That’s only the beginning, though! After all, Ayham informs us, “These motherfuckers wanna copy my aesthetics / I lead, they follow, magnetic.” Ooh-wee! I ❤️ the clapping percussion that appears after his daring, fierce first verse. The second verse gives I’m the shit, energy. Ayham characterizes himself as the shit:

“Heat coming out of the studio

Call the firefighters, call the radio

Making hits, flow’s a blitz, turning heads

Confess I’m the shit

By now, you should know

We got the power, we own the dancefloor

Beat so catchy, got me in a chokehold.”

The third verse keeps things interesting and unapologetic: “I give zero fucks, yeah I ain’t got time / Got bars for years, ain’t talking jail time.” Also, I cosign his bold assertion that “I wanna dance in my underwear 🩲 / I wanna make them stop and stare.” At the end of the cut, with striking instrumental contrast, Ayham confidently spits, “Fuck it up now / Now.” Ayham brings it on the fun “I AM A STAR, BITCH”.

@iamayham_

♬ BREAK THE SILENCE – Ayham

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6. Lizzo, “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)”

Special » Nice Life / Atlantic » 2022

“Am I ready (Girl, there ain’t a doubt) / Am I ready (What you talkin’ ‘bout?) / Am I ready (You gon’ figure it out) / To be loved, to be loved? (To be loved).”

Maybe I’m mistaken, but it seems like Grammy-winning pop singer-songwriter Lizzo (Melissa Jefferson) is ready for love! “2 B Loved (Am I Ready)” is the fourth track from her sophomore album, Special. In the context of the LP, it continues a fast start and bests the controversial track that precedes it, “Grrrls”. “2 B Loved (Am I Ready)” embraces pop whole hog. It was produced by ILYA and Max Martin. “2 B Loved” is high-energy from the onset. Empowering and encouraging, Lizzo speaks about her readiness for love. “How am I supposed to love somebody else,” she sings, and continues, “When I don’t like myself? Like, ooh / Guess I better learn to like this, ooh.” Furthermore, she asserts she deserves it, which doesn’t come over as ‘cocky’ but positive. Beyond the uplifting lyrics and the magnificent musical accompaniment, Lizzo’s vocals are EVERYTHING.

Appears in 🔻:

Am: 5 Gems (2026)

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7. The Irrepressibles, “What I Am! Queer”

Yo Homo » Of Naked Design » 2025

“We stand with all the men who can’t express their love.” Amen! “All of the women fighting against the oppression from men.”

Amen! “All of the queers who can’t express their truth.” Amen! And everyone who’s afraid of rejection for being themselves.” And again, I say, amen! Those of us who identify as queer want to live our lives freely, without being accosted, bullied, disrespected, or repressed. The Irrepressibles released the moving “What I Am! Queer”, which celebrates queerness and looks forward to a better, more promising tomorrow. Jamie McDermott says it best himself: “Freedom is for everyone!”

“What I Am! Queer” begins minimally, with McDermott singing authentically, beautifully, and honestly. Supported by bass and finger snaps, Jamie hauntingly recollects a rough and tumble past: “As a teen, I felt alone, no one to understand aloneness that I felt /… We were led to fear all the color in the night!” Soon enough, he puts that ugly, repressed past behind him, accompanied by a grander soundscape, including chilling background vocals. Embracing his queerness, he sings out and proudly:

“Don’t expect me to apologize!

Who I am is painted in the skies

You think I’m wrong? I know I’m right

But through love, we’ll all make it.”

Jamie and the Irrepressibles are 1000% correct! They tell the truth as they preach about that “life and it’s waiting for you,” and “a time where you won’t feel shame.” Sadly, many don’t see the pain inflicted upon queer individuals. They are stuck in holier-than-thou, narrow-minded ways. But, this song is not about wallowing in pain or sorrow – it’s about living life proudly! Beyond its marvelous vocals and pitch-perfect songwriting, the musical arrangement is EPIC. There are layers of striking rhythmic strings and choral vocals that elevate the musicianship to a whole other level. When all the parts, including string and choral parts, are put together, “What I Am! Queer” is breathtaking. This is an awesome, uplifting song that everybody needs to hear!

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8. Kandi, “Don’t Think I’m Not”

Hey Kandi… » Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Inc. » 2000

“Don’t be so surprised to know that sometimes women play the field / You may not believe it, but it’s real.”

Word! Kandi (Kandi Burruss) has made plenty of noise as a reality television star in recent times. However, did you know that she’s a Grammy winner? Burruss won her only Grammy as a songwriter on the TLC hit “No Scrubs”. Before that, the Atlanta R&B singer-songwriter was a member of the 1990s R&B group Xscape. In 2000, she released her debut single, “Don’t Think I’m Not”. The eventual fifth track from her debut album, Hey Kandi…, marks her sole pop hit. Taking that a step further, it is her only song to chart on the pop charts… “Don’t” peaked at number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100. Burruss, Focus…, Katrina Willis, and Kevin “She’kspere” Briggs wrote the song. Willis, Briggs, and Burruss produced it.

On “Don’t Think I’m Not,” Kandi knows her man is doing her dirty. In the first verse, she asserts, “Now, I don’t have to question / Where you were last night / …I already know you’ll lie.” What a dog! In the second verse, she mentions how he doesn’t pay her any mind. But instead of being down about his cheating, low-down ways, she’s doing the same things! She says it perfectly at the end of the second verse: “They say two wrongs won’t make it right / But it’s suiting me just fine.” Get it, sis! Of course, the chorus is the crème de la crème, where she goes toe-to-toe with this player:

“When you’re out in the club, don’t think I’m not

Even when you’re out making love, don’t think I’m not

When you’re feeling good in somebody’s spot

Getting hot, don’t stop

Just don’t think I’m not, ‘cause I’m out getting mine.”

Ooh-wee, Kandi! She sings beautifully as she ‘plays the field’ and keeps the same energy as this dog! The melodies are ear-catching, particularly the rhythmic chorus. Well-produced, “Don’t Think I’m Not” sounds like 2000s R&B through and through, with the lush backdrop (keys, programming) and the super-rhythmic drum programming (those clapping snares never grow old). If anything, this fun joint deserved more recognition than it received back in the day.

Appears in 🔻:

Kandi, Don’t Think I’m Not: 1 Hit WONDERful No. 19 (2026)

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9. Kendrick Lamar, “Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst”

good kid, m.A.A.d city » Aftermath / Interscope Records » 2012

“Promise me that you will sing about me.”

I don’t need to say it again, but I will. We all know that Kendrick Lamar was robbed at the 56^th Annual Grammy Awards. There is no way in hell that Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’ The Heist should ever beat Kendrick’s first masterpiece, good kid, m.A.A.d city, “Thrift Shop” or not (not “fucking awesome” in the least)! The deep good kid, m.A.A.d city is filled with high-flying moments, including the epic, 12-minute-long 10^th track, “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst”. “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst” was written by Kendrick Lamar, Alan Bergman, Duane Hitchings, Like, Marilyn Bergman, and Quincy Jones (!). Notably, the song samples Grant Green (“Maybe Tomorrow”), Bill Withers (“Use Me”), and The Singers Unlimited ( “My Romance”). Like, Skhye Hutch, and Sounwave produced it.

“Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst” is lengthy but jam-packed, NO CAP! This is a two-part song: “Sing About Me” and “I’m Dying of Thirst.” It is during “Sing About Me” that the jazzy, soulful vibes are in full force. That repeated Grant Green guitar riff, primarily, and Bill Withers’ rhythmic drum groove create some decadent ear candy. Throw in the gorgeous, lush strings, and “Sing About Me” is sublime. Ensuring the opening seven-minute portion is EVERYTHING is Kendrick Lamar, who compels with his cadence and flow. His rhymes are alluring and real, imparted through masterful storytelling:

“I know exactly what happened

You ran outside when you heard my brother cry for help

Held him like a newborn baby and made him feel

Like everything was alright in a fight he tried to put up

But the type of bullet that stuck

Had went against his will, that’s blood spilled on your hands.”

There is a lot to unpack in “Sing About Me,” best experienced by listening to the source, Kendrick. His distinct singing on the melodious chorus is sweet, too.

“When the lights shut off and it’s my turn

To settle down, my main concern

Promise that you will sing about me

Promise that you will sing about me.”

Following three verses, four choruses, and an outro, a skit demarcates “Sing About Me” and “Dying of Thirst.” The skit is capped off with the assertion, “Fuck! I’m tired of this shit / I’m tired of fuckin’ runnin’; I’m tired of this shit! My brother, homie!” It’s dramatic, prefacing the more intense “I’m Dying of Thirst.” The first lyric that K-Dot spits in the first verse: “Tired of runnin’, uh, tired of huntin’, uh / My own kind, but retirin’ nothin’, uh.” Essentially, Kendrick and his homies are in trouble. Seeking to avenge the death of a friend/brother, their endeavors are reckless, with a strong likelihood of increasing the tragedy. He paints a picture of the roughness of the hood, his many sins, and his search for something to quench his thirst. In most cases, the things that he believes will quench his thirst won’t. Ultimately, it is being saved – faith – that straightens him out. Beyond the intense theme and lyrics, there is also an intense, pummeling beat. Adding some sweetness, however, is the thoughtful The Singers Unlimited vocal sample. By the end of “Dying of Thirst,” specifically the skit, Maya Angelou (1928 – 2014) helps Kendrick become saved, memorably stating, “See, you young men are dying of thirst / Do you know what that means? / That means you need water, holy water / You need to be baptized with the spirit of the Lord.” As Kendrick Lamar would later name his Pulitzer Prize winning, I say, DAMN. And, to echo my bone to pick with the Recording Academy, how could you slight good kid, m.A.A.d city in favor of The Heist?! The complex, conceptual, and nuanced “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst” was more than enough for Kendrick Lamar to earn his first Grammy win. An essay could be written about the song itself.

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10. Jennifer Holliday, “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”

Dreamgirls: Original Broadway Cast Album » Universal Music Enterprises » 1982

“And I am tellin’ you I’m not going / You’re the best man I’ll ever know / There’s no way I can ever go.”

When you think of Jennifer Holliday, one song, and one song only, comes to mind: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”. Holliday, playing Effie White, performed the big, demanding ballad in the original Broadway cast of Dreamgirls. The Henry Krieger (music) and Tom Eyen (lyrics) penned song is the crown jewel from Dreamgirls: Original Broadway Cast Album. “And I Am Telling You” is Holliday’s sole top 40 hit. It peaked at number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. Deservedly, Holliday won her first Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female at the 25^th Annual GRAMMY Awards. Take one listen to her dynamic, expressive performance on “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” and there is no way that she could’ve been denied!

If you’ve seen Holliday perform “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” you can tell she infuses every ounce of herself. Her performance is gritty and soulful and exhibits top-notch musicianship. A ‘big’ song, few vocalists can bring the punch needed to successfully deliver this Broadway classic. Holliday makes us believe every word. “Darlin’, there’s no way / No, no, no, no way / I’m livin’ without you,” she sings, spiritedly, confirming her love for “the best man I’ll ever know.” In the bridge, she remains unshakable, dramatically asserting, “Tear down the mountains / Yell, scream, and shout / You can say what you want / I’m not walking out.” Word. The chorus, of course, is the crème de la crème. Still, the outro seals the deal: “Love me / Love me / Love me / Love me / You’re gonna love me.” Besides winning a Grammy for her once-in-a-lifetime performance of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”, Holliday won the Tony for Actress (Musical). Holliday may be a ‘one-hit wonder,’ but who wouldn’t kill for this juggernaut to be their sole pop hit?

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11. Michael Bolton, “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You”

Soul Provider » Sony Music Entertainment Inc. » 1989

“Tell me, how am I supposed to live without you / Now that I’ve been loving you so long?”

That is a legitimate question and concern, Michael Bolton (b. 1953)! “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” is the fourth track from the pop singer-songwriter’s 1989 multi-platinum album, Soul Provider. Notably, Bolton covers the Laura Branigan (1952 – 2004) hit. Notably, Bolton penned the gem alongside Doug James. Yes, it’s still a cover, but he played a role in Branigan’s original success since he wrote it 😉. Michael Omartian produced his version. Bolton’s cover spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. He won his first of two Grammys for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male at the 32^nd Annual Grammy Awards. What I’m saying is, “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” is kind of a big deal.

“How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” thrives because it is a big-time, soulful adult contemporary ballad. Michael Bolton has a hell of a voice, perfectly attuned to balladry. Beyond his prodigious pipes, which shine brightest during the chorus, the musical accompaniment and production are on point (warm, sophisticated keyboards, programming, ripe guitar, robust bass, drums, etc.). This song sounds like the perfect bridge between two eras – the 1980s and 1990s. But back to the voice! It is easy to buy what he sells, considering he sings authentically, dramatically, and expressively. “I’m too proud for cryin’, didn’t come here to break down / It’s just a dream of mine is coming to an end,” he sings, defeated in the second verse, and concludes, “And how can I blame you when I built my world around / The hope that one day we’d be so much more than friends?” That’s deep, Michael. Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus, in all its big, illustrious, and overblown glory:

“Tell me, how am I supposed to live without you
Now that I’ve been lovin’ you so long?
How am I supposed to live without you?
And how am I supposed to carry on
When all that I’ve been livin’ for is gone?”

Following the second chorus, fittingly, there’s an exuberant guitar solo (nothing too crazy, though 😉). This prefaces one final pre-chorus and the big one – the big, closing chorus, that is. In the final pre-chorus, Bolton is turned all the way up, showing off his sick upper register. Yes, “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” was a hit before Michael Bolton recorded it. But Mr. Bolton, after covering the song he co-wrote, made his version the definitive take.

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12. Valerie Simpson, “I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride”

The Complete Motown Singles Vol. 12B: 1972 » Motown / UMG Recordings, Inc. » 2013

“Believe I’m gonna take this ride / Take it to the end of the road.”

Word. Valerie Simpson (b. 1945) is renowned for her songwriting and collaborations with her husband, Nickolas Ashford (1941 – 2011). However, Simpson was also a solo artist. In 1972, she recorded the superb single “I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride”. It originally appeared on her self-titled solo album. It also appears on the Motown compilation, The Complete Motown Singles Vol. 12B: 1972. “I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride” was written and produced by Ashford and Simpson.

“I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride” shines from the get-go. The backdrop oozes with soul. I mean, do we expect anything less from a 1970s Motown cut? The orchestration is superb. The band is tight. I love the guitar riffs and the robust bass line. Biting horns up the ante. Later, there’s a fine saxophone solo, ‘triggered’ by a timely modulation. As high-flying as the instrumental is, Valerie Simpson is the star. Her angelic, silky-smooth mezzo-soprano vocals soar. Simpson also gets the support of strong background vocals. The melodies are tuneful, while the lyrics are simple and memorable, particularly the chorus, excerpted earlier. “So if you don’t mind a little company,” she sings the verses and continues, “I wanna go with you all the way / To see what the end’s gonna be.” Note: The ride is a committed relationship. All told, Valerie Simpson brings it on “I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride”, a delightful soul gem that deserves far more recognition.

Appears in 🔻:

Valerie Simpson, I Believe I’m Gonna Take This Ride: Throwback Vibez No. 63 (2026)

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13. Simon & Garfunkel, “I Am a Rock”

Sounds of Silence » Columbia Records » 1966

“A winter’s day / In a deep and dark December / I am alone.”

While the lyrics paint a vivid portrait, they do not sound ideal. Lonely in December? That is, indeed, a big-time, Bah Humbug! In the second verse of “I Am a Rock”, Simon & Garfunkel add to the isolation: “I’ve built walls / A fortress, steep and mighty / That none may penetrate.” Impenetrable, huh? Man, oh, man! While the walls are up for the individual that Paul Simon (b. 1941) and Art Garfunkel (b. 1941) sing about, the duo delivers a magical, once-in-a-lifetime song. “I Am a Rock” is the 11^th and final track from the duo’s 1966 album, Sounds of Silence. Simon composed the classic, while Bob Johnston produced it. “I Am A Rock” peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100.

“I am a rock / I am an Island.” Ah, what a mighty refrain! “I Am a Rock” masterfully captures isolation and being misunderstood with plenty of lyrical examples. See the fourth verse where the nameless isolated individual informs us, “I have my books / And my poetry to protect me / I am shielded in my armor.” My, my, my. Even if this person is misunderstood, Simon & Garfunkel deliver an entertaining tale. Beyond alluring songwriting and a strong vocal performance, the music shines as well. The playful guitar accompaniment by Ralph Casale is quite special during the minimalist introduction. Once the groove kicks in, Simon & Garfunkel match the track’s newfound assertiveness. Al Kooper adds vibrance with his organ, while Bobby Gregg locks in on the drums. “I Am a Rock” marks another once-in-a-lifetime folk-rock gem from the Simon & Garfunkel catalog.

Appears in 🔻:

Simon & Garfunkel, I Am a Rock: Throwback Vibez No. 40 (2026)

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13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Aftermath, Atlantic, Big Hat Club, Columbia Records, Create Music Group Inc., DSING RECORDS, Durand Bernarr, Interscope Records, Megan Moroney, Nice Life, Of Naked Design, Pretty Swede Records, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Enterprises; Gordon Johnson from Pixabay]

13 Songs Where the Verb AM is Key | Playlist

Published by the musical hype on September 7, 2026September 7, 2026