About the song
“Just the Two of Us,” a timeless classic from 1980, embodies a fusion of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics penned by the legendary Bill Withers, alongside William Salter and Ralph MacDonald. Originally conceived as an instrumental piece by MacDonald and Salter, the song took on its soulful essence when Withers crafted its evocative lyrics.
Set in the key of F minor, “Just the Two of Us” unfolds with a distinctive chord progression that intertwines smoothly throughout its verses and chorus. The introduction, graced by Richard Tee’s masterful touch on the Fender Rhodes electric piano, sets a mellow yet captivating tone that persists throughout the track.
Upon its release by Elektra Records on Grover Washington Jr.’s album ‘Winelight’ in 1980 and subsequently as a single in early 1981, the song soared to number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success was a pivotal moment for Washington, marking his sole Top 40 hit and garnering acclaim with a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song.
The cultural impact of “Just the Two of Us” extends far beyond its initial release. It has been embraced across various artistic realms, from Bill Cosby’s playful adaptation “Just the Slew of Us” to Will Smith’s poignant rendition focusing on father-son relationships. The song’s infectious melody and poignant lyrics have inspired numerous covers and adaptations across genres, from rap to jazz, solidifying its place in musical history.
Beyond music, “Just the Two of Us” has found its way into popular media, appearing in films like ‘Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me’ and animated series such as ‘Futurama’ and ‘The Simpsons.’ Its enduring appeal also caught fire on TikTok in recent years, sparking a resurgence of appreciation among younger audiences.
As a testament to its enduring legacy, “Just the Two of Us” continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, serving as a timeless reminder of love, companionship, and the power of musical storytelling.
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Lyrics
I see the crystal raindrops fall
And the beauty of it all
Is when the sun comes shining through
To make those rainbows in my mind
When I think of you sometime
And I wanna spend some time with you
Just the two of us
We can make it if we try
Just the two of us
(Just the two of us)
Just the two of us
Building castles in the sky
Just the two of us
You and I
We look for love, no time for tears
Wasted water’s all that is
And it don’t make no flowers grow
Good things might come to those who wait
Not for those who wait too late
We gotta go for all we know
Just the two of us
We can make it if we try
Just the two of us
(Just the two of us)
Just the two of us
Building them castles in the sky
Just the two of us
You and I
I hear the crystal raindrops fall
On the window down the hall
And it becomes the morning dew
And darling when the morning comes
And I see the morning sun
I wanna be the one with you
Just the two of us
We can make it if we try
Just the two of us
(Just the two of us)
Just the two of us
Building big castles way on high
Just the two of us
You and I
just the two of us
(We can make it, just the two of us)
Let’s get it together baby (yeah)
(Just the two of us)
Just the two of us
(We can make it, just the two of us)
(Just the two of us)
(We can make it, just the two of us)
(Just the two of us)
(We can make it, just the two of us)
(Just the two of us)
(We can make it, just the two of us)
(Just the two of us)
(We can make it, just the two of us)
(Just the two of us)