Luther Ingram – (If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want To Be Right

About the song

Luther Ingram’s “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” is a soul classic that delves into the complexities of forbidden love and the moral dilemmas that come with it. Released in 1972, this powerful ballad became one of Ingram’s most enduring hits, showcasing his emotive vocal delivery and the poignant storytelling that characterizes much of soul music from that era.

Luther Ingram, born Luther Thomas Ingram in 1937, was an American R&B singer and songwriter known for his rich, soulful voice. He began his music career in the 1960s and gained recognition with his heartfelt performances and relatable lyrics. Ingram’s career reached its peak in the early 1970s, with “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” serving as his signature song.

The song was written by the legendary songwriting team Homer Banks, Carl Hampton, and Raymond Jackson, who crafted many hits for Stax Records. The production was handled by Johnny Baylor and recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, known for its distinctive Southern soul sound.

Musically, “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” is a quintessential soul ballad, characterized by its slow tempo, lush instrumentation, and deeply emotional delivery. The song opens with a gentle guitar riff, setting a contemplative tone that is soon joined by a steady rhythm section and soulful strings. The arrangement is rich and full, yet restrained enough to allow Ingram’s vocals to take center stage.

Lyrically, the song explores the theme of an illicit love affair, with Ingram expressing the emotional turmoil of being in love with someone he shouldn’t be involved with. The lyrics capture the conflict between societal norms and personal feelings, as evidenced in the chorus: “If loving you is wrong, I don’t want to be right / If being right means being without you, I’d rather live a wrong-doing life.” The song delves into the protagonist’s struggle with the consequences of his actions, as he questions the morality of his feelings and the impact on all involved.

Ingram’s vocal performance is the heart of the song, conveying a profound sense of longing, guilt, and passion. His voice is filled with a raw emotional intensity that brings the lyrics to life, making the listener feel the weight of his internal conflict. The emotive quality of his voice, coupled with the song’s stirring melody, creates a powerful and moving experience.

“(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” was a commercial success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Billboard R&B chart. The song’s success was a testament to its emotional depth and relatable themes, resonating with a wide audience. It became a defining track of the early 1970s soul music scene and solidified Ingram’s place in music history.

The song’s impact extends beyond its chart success. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including country and pop, demonstrating its universal appeal and timelessness. The song’s exploration of complex emotional landscapes continues to resonate with listeners, making it a staple in the catalog of classic soul music.

In summary, Luther Ingram’s “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” is a soulful and introspective ballad that explores the moral complexities of forbidden love. With its heartfelt lyrics, lush arrangement, and Ingram’s deeply expressive vocal performance, the song remains a poignant and timeless piece of music. Its success and lasting influence highlight the power of soul music to convey the deepest of human emotions and experiences.

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Lyrics

“(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want To Be Right”
(originally by Luther Ingram)