About the song
Let’s explore the soulful charm of “I Wanna Get Next to You” by Rose Royce, a captivating love song that remains a classic in the realm of soul and R&B music. Originally released in 1976 as part of their debut album “Car Wash,” this track solidified Rose Royce’s place in the music scene.
Rose Royce, under the guidance of producer Norman Whitfield, crafted “I Wanna Get Next to You” with lyrics written by Norman Whitfield himself. The song showcases the band’s ability to blend soulful melodies with a touch of funk, creating a sound that resonates with both heartfelt emotion and infectious groove.
Upon its release, “I Wanna Get Next to You” climbed the charts, reaching #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. Its success not only showcased Rose Royce’s musical prowess but also established them as a formidable force in the soul and R&B genres during the 1970s.
The song features a melodic arrangement with soulful guitar riffs, smooth bass lines, and the soul-stirring vocals of lead singer Gwen Dickey. Dickey’s delivery exudes warmth and longing, perfectly complementing the song’s romantic lyrics that express the desire to be close to someone special.
“I Wanna Get Next to You” has continued to resonate with audiences over the years, remaining a favorite on soul and R&B playlists. Its inclusion in the soundtrack of the iconic film “Car Wash” further solidified its cultural impact and enduring popularity.
Whether rediscovering this soulful gem or experiencing it for the first time, “I Wanna Get Next to You” by Rose Royce remains a testament to the band’s ability to evoke emotions and create music that stands the test of time. It captures the essence of love and longing, making it a timeless classic for listeners of all ages.
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Lyrics
Sitting here in this chair, waiting on you
Oh, baby to see things my way
But not a word do you say
You won’t even look my way, yeah
Girl I’m spending my dimes
Wasting my time
Talking ’til I’m black and blue
Uh, can’t you see I wanna get next to you?
Dreams of you when I go sailing by
Whenever your eyes meet mine
Youre so fine
And girl you make me feel so insecure
You’re so beautiful and pure
Why must you be unkind and tell me I’m not your kind?
Blowing my mind
Girl my, my money is low and I know
That I can’t take you to the fancy places
You might wanna go
Still I wanna get next to you
I wanna get next to you
Baby yeah
Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Ah, yeah
Girl you can bend me, shape me, make me
Whatever it takes to please you
I’m willing to do
‘Cause you’re my dream come true
And I wanna get next to you
Baby yeah
I wanna get next to you
I wanna make you mine for all the time (I wanna get next to you)
I promise I’ll never make you blue
I wanna get next to you
So, let love begin between me and you (I wanna get next to you)
Girl I’m in love with you (I wanna get next to you)