About the song
Just the Two of Us, a timeless duet that epitomizes the smooth sounds of the early 1980s. Released in 1981, this iconic song is a collaboration between two musical giants: the soulful vocalist Bill Withers and the legendary saxophonist Grover Washington Jr..
While the silky smooth melody and Withers’ heartfelt vocals might seem effortless, the song’s origins reveal a fascinating collaboration. Originally conceived by songwriters William Salter and Ralph MacDonald as an instrumental piece, it lacked that certain spark. Recognizing its potential, MacDonald reached out to Withers, a songwriter known for his ability to craft relatable and emotionally resonant lyrics. Withers, impressed by the music, penned the now-iconic lyrics that perfectly captured the essence of romantic intimacy.
Just the Two of Us found its home on Grover Washington Jr.’s 1980 album Winelight. Washington Jr., a pioneer in the burgeoning genre of smooth jazz, was known for his sophisticated arrangements and his ability to weave soulful melodies with the improvisational freedom of jazz. His signature tenor saxophone became the song’s centerpiece, its warm and inviting tones intertwining seamlessly with Withers’ smooth vocals.
The song itself is a celebration of love’s simple joys. The lyrics paint a picture of a couple content in each other’s company, finding solace and security in their bond. Lines like “Building castles in the sky” evoke the power of shared dreams and aspirations, while the repeated refrain of “Just the Two of Us” emphasizes the strength and exclusivity of their connection.
Just the Two of Us transcended genre boundaries, becoming a massive hit on both the pop and R&B charts. It won the 1982 Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals, solidifying its place in musical history. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the universal language of love.
But Just the Two of Us is more than just a love song. It’s a masterclass in musical collaboration. Washington Jr.’s smooth jazz arrangements perfectly complement Withers’ soulful vocals, creating a soundscape that is both sophisticated and deeply relatable. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to evoke a sense of intimacy and connection that resonates with listeners across generations.
So, when you hit play on Just the Two of Us, prepare to be transported to a world of smooth sounds, heartfelt emotions, and the timeless beauty of love.
Video
Lyrics
“Just The Two Of Us”
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 want to 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
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
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
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 want to 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)
Yes, the two of us
(We can make it just the two of us)
Let’s get it together, babe
(Just the two of us)
Yes, 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
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)