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‘Have You Seen Her’ – The Chi-Lites

The Chi-Lites | Spotify

About the Song

Released in 1971, “Have You Seen Her” by The Chi-Lites is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. This soulful ballad tells the story of a man searching for his lost love, desperately hoping to rekindle their connection. With its smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious melody, “Have You Seen Her” is a prime example of the Chi-Lites’ enduring legacy.

The song opens with a spoken word intro, setting the scene for the narrator’s emotional journey. He reminisces about a time when he was “happy as a lark,” before his love disappeared without a trace. Now, he’s left wandering the streets, searching for any sign of her.

The Chi-Lites’ signature harmonies shine throughout the song, creating a sense of longing and desperation. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, conveying the narrator’s deep-seated pain and longing. He asks everyone he meets if they’ve seen her, clinging to the hope that she might still be out there somewhere.

The song’s bridge provides a brief moment of respite, as the narrator reflects on the memories he shared with his lost love. He remembers their laughter, their conversations, and the way she made him feel. These memories fuel his determination to find her, no matter how long it takes.

“Have You Seen Her” concludes with a return to the spoken word intro, leaving the listener with a sense of unresolved longing. The narrator’s fate remains unknown, but the song’s emotional impact is undeniable. “Have You Seen Her” is a testament to the power of love and the enduring pain of loss.

Key takeaways:

  • “Have You Seen Her” is a classic soul ballad by The Chi-Lites.
  • The song tells the story of a man searching for his lost love.
  • The song’s soulful harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious melody have made it a timeless favorite.
  • “Have You Seen Her” is a powerful reminder of the enduring pain of loss.

Exploring the Legacy of the Chi-Lites: Masters of Sweet Soul Ballads - SoulTracks

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Lyrics: Have You Seen Her 

One month ago today
I was happy as a lark
But now I go for walks
To the movies, maybe to the park

And have a seat on the same old bench
To watch the children play, huh
You know, tomorrow is their future
But to me just another day

They all gather around me
They seem to know my name
We laugh, tell a few jokes
But it still doesn’t ease my pain

Well, I know I can’t hide from a memory
‘Though day after day I’ve tried
I keep sayin’ she’ll be back
But today again I lied

Oh, I see her face everywhere I go
On the street and even at the picture show
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Oh, I hear her voice as the cold winds blow
In the sweet music on my radio
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Why, oh why
Did she have to leave and go away, oh yeah
Oh, I’ve been used to havin’ someone to lean on
And I’m lost
Baby, I’m lost

Oh doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Oh doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Oh, she left her kiss upon my lips
But left that break within my heart
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Oh, I see her hand reaching out to me
Only she can set me free
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Why oh why?
Did you have to leave and go away? Oh yeah
Ooh oh, I’ve been used to having someone to lean on
And I’m lost, baby I’m lost

Oh doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

As another day comes to an end
I’m lookin’ for a letter or somethin’
Anything that she would send
With all the people I know
I’m still a lonely man
You know, it’s funny
But I thought I had her in the palm of my hand

Have you seen her
Tell me, have you seen her (tell me, have you seen her?)

Oh doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

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