The Spinners, I’ll Be Around | Throwback Vibez

In the 205th edition of Throwback Vibez (2024), we recollect and reflect on “I’ll Be Around” by The Spinners. 

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome. In the 205^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2024), we recollect and reflect on “I’ll Be Around” performed by The Spinners.

“Whenever you call me, I’ll be there / Whenever you want me, I’ll be there / Whenever you need me, I’ll be there / I’ll Be Around.” Grammy-nominated , iconic R&B group The Spinners are responsible for some of soul’s greatest hits, PERIOD. “I’ll Be Around” is one of those beloved, iconic songs. It hails as the fifth track from the collective’s 1973 album, Spinners.  It was a big success on the pop charts, peaking at no. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Phil Hurtt and Thom Bell composed “I’ll Be Around.” Bell produced it. So, what makes “I’ll Be Around” the sugar honey iced tea? There’s lots of excellence!

The chorus, excerpted above, is the centerpiece.  In the end, the chorus features additional variations, all built on the availability of the suitor (“Just call me on the phone, I’ll be there”).  In the first verse, the listener is informed that the relationship has ended.  “This is our fork in the road / Love’s last episode,” lead vocalist Bobby Smith sings, adding, “Now it’s up to me / To bow out gracefully / Though you hold the key…” Smith seems to be leaving the door open, at least from his perspective.  The sentiment is similar in the second verse, where he asserts, “There’s always a chance / A tiny spark will remain, yeah / And sparks turn into flames / And love can burn once again.”  Beyond memorable lyrics and top-notch singing from Smith and the rest of the collective, the musical accompaniment is sensational.  Electrifying guitars, marvelous keys, rhythmic drums and percussion, a fat bass line, and a gorgeous orchestra.  “I’ll Be Around” is a surefire vibe – the best of the best of the 70s catalog regardless of music genre.  The Spinners ‘did that!’

The Spinners // Spinners // Atlantic // 1973

The Spinners, I’ll Be Around: Throwback Vibez No. 205 (2024) [: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Atlantic; OpenClipart-Vectors, Clker-Free-Vector-Images, Speedy McVroom from Pixabay]