Al Green, To Love Somebody | COVERS

In the fourth edition of COVERS (2026), Al Green delivers a compelling rendition of “To Love Somebody,” originally performed by the Bee Gees.

Ah, it’s time to get cozy and cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers.  It is open to established and lesser-known musicians. In the fourth edition of COVERS (2025), Al Green delivers a compelling rendition of “To Love Somebody”, originally performed by the Bee Gees.

The beloved classic “To Love Somebody” was originally recorded by the iconic pop trio, the Bee Gees, in 1967.  They earned a top 20 hit on the pop charts with the memorable, well-written record. Barry Gibb (b. 1946) and Robin Gibb (1949 – 2012) are credited as writers.  Another iconic musician, Al Green (b. 1946), became one of many musicians to cover the renowned classic on his 2026 EP, To Love Somebody.  Although this is not an Al Green original, the Reverend ensures he makes “To Love Somebody” his own. Matthew Johnson, David Ferguson, and Clay Jones produced Green’s riveting take.

In Al Green’s gifted hands, “To Love Somebody” gets the soul treatment.  And it’s not just any kind of soul.  It’s that Memphis soul that is written all over the radiant, throwback musical accompaniment. Highlights within the accompaniment include the churchy, earthy organ, lush, rich strings, and biting horns.  The instrumental riffs are riffing! Of course, the star of the show is none other than the reverend himself.  Green delivers compelling, soulful lead vocals.  Moments after he sings the opening notes, it’s apparent he’s still got it, pushing 80 years young.  His tone remains elite, while his pitch is strong, too.  Sure, his ad-libs are more modest than his heyday, but overall, his voice doesn’t sound diminished an ounce.  He still brings those gritty, gospelized riffs that encourage you to say, Amen! Go ‘head, pastor! Green concludes “To Love Somebody” warmly, singing, “I love you.” Aww, Rev! “To Love Somebody” has been covered many times.  It’s hard to make this the Bee Gees staples extra special.  However, this soulful rendition by Al Green is the bomb diggity.  This is a welcome addition to the soul playlist in 2026.

Al Green » To Love Somebody (EP) » Fat Possum Records » 2026

Al Green, To Love Somebody: Covers No. 4 (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Fat Possum Records; Alan Cordero, Flávia Vicentini from Pexels; Gordon Johnson, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]

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