Clyde McPhatter is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of rhythm and blues and soul music, known for his soaring vocals and emotive performances. As the lead singer of The Drifters and later as a solo artist, McPhatter left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing countless artists that followed in his footsteps. With a career spanning over two decades, McPhatter released numerous hits and timeless classics that continue to be celebrated to this day.
In this list of the 10 Best Clyde McPhatter Songs of All Time, we will delve into some of his greatest hits, showcasing his unparalleled talent as a vocalist and songwriter. From soulful ballads to upbeat R&B, McPhatter’s music is a testament to his enduring legacy and his impact on the genre of rhythm and blues.
1. “A Lover’s Question”
“A Lover’s Question” is a classic rhythm and blues song performed by Clyde McPhatter. It was released in 1958 and quickly became a hit, reaching number six on the US Billboard R&B chart and number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song features McPhatter’s smooth, soulful vocals over a simple, yet catchy melody and a lively, upbeat rhythm. Lyrically, the song explores the emotions of a man who is confused and unsure about the true intentions of his lover. McPhatter’s performance is full of passion and raw emotion, making “A Lover’s Question” a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. With its blend of soulful vocals, memorable melody, and heartfelt lyrics, this song remains a beloved gem of the R&B genre and a testament to McPhatter’s incredible talent as a performer.
2. “Treasure of Love”
“Treasure of Love” is a beautiful ballad recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1956. The song features McPhatter’s distinctive tenor voice backed by a lush arrangement of strings and horns, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. The lyrics are a heartfelt expression of love and devotion, with McPhatter singing about the treasure of love that he has found and how he will cherish it forever. The song was a hit for McPhatter, reaching number one on the US R&B chart and number sixteen on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. With its romantic melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Treasure of Love” is a timeless classic that continues to be cherished by fans of R&B and soul music. McPhatter’s soulful vocals and the beautiful orchestration make this song a standout in his discography, and a must-listen for anyone looking for an emotional and uplifting ballad.
3. “Seven Days”
“Seven Days” is a catchy and upbeat R&B song recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1959. The song features McPhatter’s signature smooth and soulful vocals over a lively and energetic rhythm, with a driving horn section and a catchy guitar riff. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is so in love with his partner that he wishes every day could be like Sunday, spending time together and enjoying each other’s company. The song became a hit for McPhatter, reaching number 18 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 7 on the R&B chart. With its irresistible melody and infectious groove, “Seven Days” is a standout track in McPhatter’s catalog and a testament to his incredible talent as a performer. This song remains a beloved classic in the R&B genre, and a must-listen for fans of soulful, upbeat music.
4. “Lover Please”
“Lover Please” is a classic R&B song recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1962. The song features McPhatter’s smooth and soulful vocals over a lively and upbeat rhythm, with a catchy guitar riff and a driving horn section. The lyrics tell the story of a man pleading with his partner to come back to him and give him another chance. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a joy to listen to, with McPhatter’s vocal performance adding a layer of emotion and depth to the song. “Lover Please” was a hit for McPhatter, reaching number 7 on the US R&B chart and number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This song remains a beloved classic in the R&B genre, and a testament to McPhatter’s incredible talent as a performer. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Lover Please” is a must-listen for fans of classic soul and R&B music.
5. Lovey Dovey
“Lovey Dovey” is an upbeat and catchy R&B song recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1958. The song features McPhatter’s smooth and soulful vocals over a lively and energetic rhythm, with a driving horn section and a catchy guitar riff. The lyrics tell the story of a man and woman who can’t get enough of each other, with each one declaring their love and affection for the other. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a joy to listen to, with McPhatter’s vocal performance adding a layer of emotion and depth to the song. “Lovey Dovey” was a hit for McPhatter, reaching number 1 on the US R&B chart and number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This song remains a beloved classic in the R&B genre, and a testament to McPhatter’s incredible talent as a performer. With its infectious melody and playful lyrics, “Lovey Dovey” is a must-listen for fans of classic soul and R&B music.
6. “Love Has Joined Us Together”
“Love Has Joined Us Together” is a romantic ballad recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1962. The song is a testament to McPhatter’s incredible range and vocal abilities, with his smooth and powerful voice carrying the emotion and sentiment of the song’s lyrics. The song features a lush orchestral arrangement, with sweeping strings and a gentle piano melody providing the perfect backdrop for McPhatter’s soulful vocals. The lyrics speak of the joy and happiness of finding true love, with McPhatter expressing his gratitude for the person who has come into his life and brought him so much happiness. The song’s slow tempo and gentle melody make it a perfect slow dance song, with McPhatter’s vocal performance adding a sense of romance and intimacy to the track. “Love Has Joined Us Together” showcases McPhatter’s incredible talent as a singer and performer, and remains a beloved classic in the R&B genre. With its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song is a must-listen for fans of soulful and romantic ballads.
7.”Long Lonely Nights”
“Long Lonely Nights” is a soulful and melancholy ballad recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1958. The song features a slow and haunting melody, with McPhatter’s emotive vocals conveying the pain and heartbreak of a love that has been lost. The lyrics speak of the loneliness and emptiness that can come from a broken relationship, with McPhatter lamenting the long nights he spends alone without his lover. The song’s mournful tone is accentuated by the mournful saxophone and subtle piano accompaniment, which adds a sense of sadness and longing to the track. McPhatter’s powerful and soulful voice is the centerpiece of the song, with his incredible range and emotive delivery bringing the lyrics to life in a way that is both moving and heart-wrenching. “Long Lonely Nights” is a classic in the R&B genre, and remains a beloved favorite among fans of soulful ballads. The song is a testament to McPhatter’s incredible talent as a singer and performer, and his ability to convey deep emotions through his music.
8. Ta Ta
“Ta Ta” is an upbeat and playful R&B track recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1956. The song features a driving rhythm section, with lively horns and a catchy melody that is impossible to resist. McPhatter’s vocals are smooth and soulful, with a playful tone that perfectly captures the playful lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is ready to say goodbye to his lover, but can’t seem to find the words to do so. Instead, he sings about all the things he would do if he could just muster up the courage to say “ta ta” and walk away. The lyrics are humorous and lighthearted, with McPhatter’s vocals adding just the right amount of charm and charisma to make the song an instant classic. “Ta Ta” is a great example of McPhatter’s versatility as a vocalist, and showcases his ability to take on a wide range of musical styles and genres. The song is a fun and infectious romp that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get your toes tapping along to the beat.
9. Just To Hold My Hand
“Just To Hold My Hand” is a classic R&B ballad recorded by Clyde McPhatter in 1953. The song features a slow and sensual tempo, with a simple arrangement that allows McPhatter’s soulful vocals to take center stage. The lyrics speak of the desire for physical closeness and emotional connection, with McPhatter singing about the longing to hold his lover’s hand and feel the warmth of their touch. His vocals are filled with emotion and yearning, conveying the deep feelings of love and intimacy that the lyrics describe. The song’s melody is haunting and beautiful, with a gentle sway that perfectly captures the romantic mood of the lyrics. McPhatter’s vocals are smooth and silky, effortlessly gliding over the melody and bringing the song to life. “Just To Hold My Hand” is a timeless classic that showcases McPhatter’s incredible talent as a vocalist and interpreter of music. It remains a beloved favorite in the R&B and soul genres, and is a testament to the enduring power of love and romance in music.
10. Crying Won’t Help You Now
“Crying Won’t Help You Now” is a soulful ballad by Clyde McPhatter, released in 1959. The song is about heartbreak and the pain that comes with it, with McPhatter’s emotive vocals perfectly capturing the feeling of despair and sadness. The song features a slow, bluesy melody with a prominent piano and backing vocals adding to the melancholic atmosphere. McPhatter’s voice soars on the chorus, reaching powerful heights as he sings the titular line “Crying won’t help you now.” The song has become a classic of the R&B genre and is a testament to McPhatter’s talent as a vocalist and songwriter.