About the song
“Never Knew Love Like This Before,” a standout track from 1980, encapsulates the essence of R&B with a timeless charm. Written and produced by the talented James Mtume and Reggie Lucas, this song became a defining moment in the career of American R&B singer Stephanie Mills, featured on her fourth studio album, *Sweet Sensation*. The inspiration behind the song was deeply personal; it was crafted in celebration of the birth of Lucas’ daughter, Lisa, which added a layer of genuine emotion and warmth to the composition.
The song marked a significant milestone for Mills, emerging as her most successful single in the United States. It soared to number six on the Billboard Pop Singles Chart, surpassing the performance of her previous hit, “What Cha’ Gonna Do with My Lovin’,” which had peaked at number 22 in 1979. Additionally, “Never Knew Love Like This Before” made notable impressions on the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts, climbing to number 12 and five, respectively. Its appeal was not confined to the U.S.; it achieved even greater success in the United Kingdom, where it reached number four on the charts.
The impact of the song was further solidified when it garnered critical acclaim at the 23rd Annual Grammy Awards in 1981, where it won the awards for Best R&B Song and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Mills’ performance stood out in a category that included heavyweights like Aretha Franklin and Diana Ross.
The song’s influence extended beyond music charts. It was featured in the fourth episode of the second season of the American drama series *Pose*, aired on July 9, 2019. In this episode, the character Candy, played by Angelica Ross, lip-syncs to the track in a scene that received widespread critical acclaim.
Musically, “Never Knew Love Like This Before” is characterized by its sophisticated chord progressions and arrangements. The intro and verse chords create a rich, harmonic texture, cycling through the diatonic Circle of Fifths in B major. The chorus section further explores this harmonic complexity, enhancing the song’s emotional depth and resonance.
The track’s enduring appeal is evident in its cover versions by various artists, including French band Organiz’ in 1999, Thomas Anders in 1995, and Jessie Ware in 2013 for the film *I Give It a Year*. Each rendition highlights the song’s versatility and its lasting impact on both audiences and artists alike.
In summary, “Never Knew Love Like This Before” is more than just a memorable R&B hit; it is a testament to the profound emotional connection that music can foster and its ability to leave an indelible mark on popular culture.
Video
Lyrics
I never knew love like this before
Now I’m lonely never more
Since you came into my life
You are my lovelight, this I know
And I’ll never let you go
You my all, you’re part of me
Once I was lost and now I’m found
Then you turned my world around
When I need, I call your name
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
Opened my eyes
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
What a surprise
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
This feeling’s so deep inside of me
Such a tender fantasy
You’re the one I’m living for
You are my sunlight and my rain
And time could never change
What we share forever more, ooh
I never knew love like this before
Now I’m lonely never more
Since you came into my life
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
Opened my eyes
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
What a surprise
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
You are my lovelight, this I know
And I’ll never let you go
You my all, you’re part of me
Once I was lost and now I’m found
Then you turned my world around
When I need, I call your name
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
Opened my eyes
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
What a surprise
‘Cause I never knew love like this before
Inside of me
I never (never) knew love like this before
Opened my eyes
never
(Never) never
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(Never) never
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(Never knew love like this) never knew love like
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(Never) never
(Never knew love like this) opened my eyes
(Never) what a surprise
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(Never knew love like this) I never knew
(Never) never knew
(Never) never
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