About the song
L.T.D.‘s “Love Ballad” is a soulful and tender song that became a defining track for the band, showcasing their smooth harmonies and heartfelt expression. Released in 1976, this romantic ballad solidified the band’s place in the R&B genre and has since been celebrated as a classic love song.
L.T.D. (short for Love, Togetherness & Devotion) was an R&B and funk band known for their rich vocal harmonies and tight instrumental arrangements. The group was formed in the late 1960s and featured a lineup of talented musicians, including lead vocalist Jeffrey Osborne, whose powerful and emotive voice became a key component of the band’s sound. “Love Ballad” is one of their most famous songs and remains a beloved staple of their repertoire.
Written by Skip Scarborough, a prolific songwriter known for his work in the R&B and soul genres, “Love Ballad” is a lyrical celebration of deep, abiding love. The song’s lyrics describe an intense and enduring romantic connection, with the narrator expressing profound appreciation and devotion to their partner. The chorus, “What we have is much more than they can see,” emphasizes the depth and uniqueness of their love, suggesting a bond that transcends the ordinary.
Musically, “Love Ballad” features a lush, mid-tempo arrangement that blends elements of soul, R&B, and smooth jazz. The song opens with a gentle guitar riff, accompanied by a warm, mellow keyboard backdrop that sets a serene and romantic mood. The rhythm section provides a steady, relaxed groove, allowing the focus to remain on the vocal delivery and lyrical content. The arrangement is sophisticated and understated, perfectly framing the song’s emotional narrative.
Jeffrey Osborne’s vocal performance is a highlight of “Love Ballad.” His voice is rich and resonant, delivering the lyrics with a combination of tenderness and passion. Osborne’s ability to convey emotion through subtle vocal inflections and powerful delivery adds depth to the song, making the listener feel the sincerity and intensity of the romantic sentiments expressed. The background vocals, provided by the other members of L.T.D., complement Osborne’s lead with smooth harmonies, enhancing the song’s lush, full sound.
“Love Ballad” achieved significant success on the charts, reaching number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the R&B chart. The song’s success marked a breakthrough for L.T.D., bringing them greater recognition and acclaim within the music industry. It also helped establish Jeffrey Osborne as a standout vocalist, eventually leading to a successful solo career.
The song has endured as a favorite among fans of classic R&B and soul, often being included in compilations of romantic ballads. Its timeless appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics, beautiful melody, and the superb vocal performance by Osborne and the band. “Love Ballad” has been covered by various artists over the years, further attesting to its enduring impact and influence.
In summary, L.T.D.‘s “Love Ballad” is a soulful and romantic anthem that captures the essence of deep, genuine love. With its elegant arrangement, touching lyrics, and Jeffrey Osborne’s captivating vocals, the song remains a classic in the R&B genre and continues to resonate with listeners as a quintessential love song.
Video
Lyrics
“Love Ballad”
In love before
What a difference, a true love made in my life
So nice
So right
Loving you gave me something new
That I never felt, never dreamed of
Something’s changed
No, it’s not the feeling I had before
Oh, it’s much, much more
Love
I never knew that a touch, hmm
Could mean so much, mm, hmm, mm
What a difference
And when we walk hand in hand
I feel so real
Lovers come and then lovers go
That’s what folks say, don’t they know
They’re not there when you love me
Hold me and say you care
And what we have is much more than they could see
(Have, have, ever, ever so much more, yeah)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, yeah, ever have so much more, baby)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, ever, ever, ever so much, so much more, baby)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, I don’t ever lose myself, I don’t ever, baby)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, heaven, yeah, heaven, heaven)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, what we have is so much more, heaven, heaven, baby)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, what we have is so much more, heaven)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, heaven, yeah, heaven, so much more)
What we have is much more than they could see
(So much more, so much more, yeah, baby, baby)
What we have is much more than they could see
(Yeah, heaven, heaven, so much more, heaven, baby, baby)
What we have is much more than they could see