About the song
Let’s dive into the soulful sounds of Gladys Knight & The Pips with their timeless ballad, “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye).”
Written by Jim Weatherly, “Neither One of Us” was released in 1972 as part of the album of the same name. It’s a poignant tale of a failing relationship, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and the difficulty of letting go.
Gladys Knight’s emotive vocals, backed by the harmonies of The Pips, bring a raw authenticity to the song, making it resonate deeply with listeners. The stirring orchestration and soulful melodies further enhance the emotional impact of the track.
Upon its release, “Neither One of Us” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success solidified Gladys Knight & The Pips’ reputation as one of the most influential soul groups of their time.
The album “Neither One of Us” received critical acclaim and further established Gladys Knight & The Pips as masters of their craft. It showcased the group’s ability to blend soul, R&B, and pop seamlessly while delivering heartfelt performances.
As we listen to “Neither One of Us,” we’re transported back to an era of soul music where emotions ran deep, and the music spoke directly to the heart. Gladys Knight & The Pips’ rendition of this classic ballad remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
With its powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and soul-stirring melodies, “Neither One of Us” remains a standout track in Gladys Knight & The Pips’ illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of soul music.
Video
Lyrics
It’s sad to think
We’re not gonna make it
And it’s gotten to the point
Where we just can’t fake it
For some ungodly reason
We just won’t let it die (let it die)
I guess neither one of us (neither one of us)
Wants to be the first to say goodbye
I keep wondering (wondering)
What I’m gonna do without you (do without you)
And I guess you must be
Wondering that same thing too
So we go on, go on together
Living a lie (living a lie)
Because neither one of us (neither one of us)
Wants to be the first to say goodbye
Oh-oh-oh, everytime I find the nerve
Everytime I find the nerve to say I’m leaving (leaving)
Old memories, those old memories
Get in my way (my way, my way)
Oh-oh-oh, Lord knows it’s only me
Oh, He knows it’s only me that I’m deceiving
Ooh, ooh, ooh, when it comes to saying goodbye
That’s a simple word that I just cannot say
There can be no way, there can be no way (be no way)
This can have a happy ending (happy ending)
No, no, so we just go on (we go on)
Hurting and pretending
And, and convincing ourselves
To give it just one more try (one more try)
Because neither one of us (neither one of us)
Ooh, ooh, wants to be the first to say
Neither one of us (neither one of us)
Wants to be the first to say
Ooh, neither one of us (neither one of us)
Wants to be the first to say
“Farewell, my love”
Goodbye (goodbye)