About the song
Wilson Pickett’s In the Midnight Hour stands as an undeniable cornerstone of rhythm and blues, a song that pulsates with raw energy and infectious groove. Released in 1965, it catapulted Pickett to stardom and became an enduring anthem that continues to resonate across generations.
The song’s genesis is as intriguing as its impact. Co-written by Pickett and Steve Cropper, the legendary guitarist of Booker T. & the MG’s, In the Midnight Hour was birthed in a moment of creative synergy. The pair, staying at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, a site later infamous for the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., found inspiration in the electric atmosphere of the city and the late-night allure of its music scene.
The song’s structure is deceptively simple, but its execution is nothing short of masterful. The driving beat, courtesy of Booker T. and the MG’s, provides an irresistible foundation for Pickett’s powerhouse vocals. His voice, raw and emotionally charged, delivers the lyrics with a fervor that is both exhilarating and captivating. The call-and-response structure, a staple of gospel and blues, creates a sense of communal participation, drawing the listener into the song’s infectious energy.
In the Midnight Hour is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural touchstone. Its influence can be heard in countless songs that followed, from rock to hip-hop. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend musical genres, connecting with audiences on a primal level. It is a testament to the power of rhythm and blues to capture the essence of human longing and desire.
Beyond its musical merits, In the Midnight Hour also reflects the socio-political climate of the 1960s. The song’s urgency and intensity can be seen as a reflection of the civil rights movement and the growing desire for social change. Pickett’s performance, filled with raw emotion and intensity, embodies the spirit of a generation seeking freedom and equality.
In conclusion, In the Midnight Hour is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and captivate listeners. It is a song that perfectly encapsulates the raw energy and soulful passion of rhythm and blues, and its legacy as a cultural touchstone is secure.
Video
Lyrics
“In The Midnight Hour”
That’s when my love comes tumbling down
I’m gonna wait ’til the midnight hour
When there’s no one else around
I’m gonna take you girl and hold you
And do all things I told you in the midnight hour
Yes I am, yes I am
One more thing I just wanna say right here
I’m gonna wait till the stars come out
And see them twinkle in your eyes
I’m gonna wait ’till the midnight hour
That’s when my love begins to shine
You’re the only girl I know
That can really love me so in the midnight hour
Oh yeah, in the midnight hour
Yeah, alright, play it for me one time now
I’m gonna wait ’til the midnight hour
That’s when my love comes tumbling down
I’m gonna wait, wait ’til the midnight hour
That’s when my love begins to shine, just, you and I
Oh baby just, you and I
Nobody around baby, just, you and I, alright
You know what, I’m gonna hold you in my arms
Just, you and I, oh yeah in the midnight hour
Oh baby in the midnight hour