Introduction

Sam Cooke’s “You Send Me” is a musical masterpiece that transcends time and resonates with audiences, regardless of the era. Released in 1957, this song holds a special place in the annals of soul music history. With its smooth, melodic tones and heartfelt lyrics, it’s a testament to Cooke’s incredible vocal talent and his profound impact on the music industry.Sam Cooke At 80: The Career That Could Have Been | WBUR

Did You Know?

  • Sam Cooke’s Legacy: Sam Cooke was more than just a singer; he was a trailblazer. He played a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry during the civil rights movement. His contribution to soul music, with classics like “A Change Is Gonna Come” and “Cupid,” earned him a place among the greatest musical artists of all time.
  • Influence on Future Artists: Cooke’s velvety voice and emotional delivery inspired countless artists, including Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and Marvin Gaye. They, in turn, helped shape the landscape of American music.
  • Crossover Success: “You Send Me” not only topped the R&B charts but also achieved remarkable success on the pop charts. This crossover appeal was a rare feat at the time and solidified Cooke’s reputation as a groundbreaking artist.
  • Tragic End: Despite his immense talent and success, Sam Cooke’s life was cut short in 1964 under tragic circumstances. His untimely death at the age of 33 left a void in the music world, but his music continues to touch hearts to this day.
  • Awards and Honors: Over the years, “You Send Me” has received numerous awards and recognitions, solidifying its place in the pantheon of American music. It has been covered by artists from various genres, further showcasing its enduring appeal.

Barbara Campbell Cooke, 85, Widow of the Slain Sam Cooke, Is Dead - The New York Times

Video

Lyrics: You Send Me

Darling you send me
I know you send me
Darling you send me
Honest you do, honest you do
Honest you do, whoa

You thrill me
I know you, you, you thrill me
Darling you, you, you, you thrill me
Honest you do

At first I thought it was infatuation
But wooh, it’s lasted so long
Now I find myself wanting
To marry you and take you home, woah

You, you, you, you send me
I know you send me
I know you send me
Honest you do

Whoa, whenever I’m with you
I know, I know, I know when I’m near you
Mmm hmm, mmm hmm, honest you do, honest you do
Whoa, I know

I know, I know, I know, when you hold me
Whoa, whenever you kiss me
Mmm hmm, mmm hmm, honest you do

At first I thought it was infatuation
But wooh, it’s lasted so long
Now I find myself wanting
To marry you and take you home

I know, I know, I know, you send me
I know you send me
Whoa, you you you you send me
Honest you do

You Missed

Billy Joe Shaver first caught Waylon Jennings’ eye at Willie Nelson’s Dripping Springs Reunion back in 1972 while passing a guitar around backstage and picking “Willy the Wandering Gypsy and Me.” Waylon immediately stopped in his tracks, learned the chords on the spot, and promised to record the material. Instead of a quick cut, Shaver found himself stuck in Nashville for six months trying to collect on that promise while dealing with empty pockets and a songwriter dodging his calls. A sympathetic DJ eventually smuggled him right into one of Waylon’s studio dates. Still trying to brush him off, Waylon handed over a hundred-dollar bill with strict instructions to clear out. Shaver was broke enough to desperately need the cash, yet his pride won out. He fired the money right back with a harsh insult, prompting a furious Waylon to storm out into the hallway surrounded by a crowd. Shaver stood his ground and told him straight: listen to the songs, or catch a beating right there in front of God and everybody. Waylon finally sat down and listened. One track led to another until Jennings scrapped his own plans and built an entire record around Shaver’s writing. Released in 1973, Honky Tonk Heroes packed nine of Billy Joe’s compositions and turned into a crown jewel of the outlaw movement. The recording room stayed just as volatile, with Shaver loudly arguing over arrangement choices and accusing Waylon of altering his vision. Yet that exact friction gave the record its teeth. Waylon had just fought RCA for total creative freedom, and Billy Joe Shaver proved stubborn enough to demand that exact same respect for the words on the page.