Bobby Womack, Woman’s Gotta Have It | Throwback Vibez

In the 60^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we reflect on “Woman’s Gotta Have It” by the soul singer extraordinaire Bobby Womack.

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”C” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]an you feel those vibes, those surefire Throwback Vibez?! Throwback Vibez is a recurring column devoted to celebrating incredible songs from the past. There is truly nothing like a classic oldie to get you energized and in a great mood! The selections featured in this column highlight musical gems from the 20^th century, though there are occasional exceptions. All genres of music are welcome, ensuring something for every musical taste. In the 60^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we reflect on “Woman’s Gotta Have It” performed by Bobby Womack.[/otw_shortcode_dropcap]

[nx_pullquote]“A woman’s got to have it, I believe / She’s got to know that she’s needed around.”[/nx_pullquote] Bobby Womack (1944 – 2014) spoke the absolute truth in the chorus of “Woman’s Gotta Have It”.  He continued, prudently, “When you kiss her, you got to make her feel it, every time, boy / She wants to know that she’s not walking on shaky ground.” Word.  “Woman’s Gotta Have It” is the second track on the late soul musician’s 1972 album, Understanding.  Considered one of his best songs, it performed modestly on the pop charts, peaking at number 60.  No worries, thought.  It ate and left no crumbs on the R&B charts, reaching number one. It was written by Bobby, Linda Womack, and Darryl Carter. Bobby also produced it.

A colorful opening instrumental riff instantly makes the ears perk up on “Woman’s Gotta Have It.”  Throughout the song, the instrumental shines: A big, robust bass line, warm, swirling organ, striking guitar riffs, and a superb groove (drums and percussion). Later, lush strings up the ante.  Bobby Womack speaks during the intro, setting the tone. Speaking to the fellas, he asserts, “…We forget / What a woman needs every now and then / That is, if you wanna keep your thing together / Listen to me now.” From there, he brings a soulful brand of sung vocals. “Man, you got to stay on your Ps and Qs / If you don’t, the woman, you can easily lose, oh-oh-oh,” he sings in the first verse, and adds in the second, “Maybe the girl might never say a mumbling word / But you gotta make sure that her voice is heard.” Preach, preacher 👏! Beyond the memorable lyrics and tuneful melodies from the verse, Womack delivers some gritty ad-libs.  He also gets great support from the background vocals.  Of course, the section of this great soul classic to beat is the chorus, excerpted earlier. Ultimately, “Woman’s Gotta Have It” is the sugar, honey, iced tea. You don’t need me to tell you that – just listen to this epic soul gem.  Killer singing, engaging songwriting, and top-notch production make it timeless.