Song #278 - "Oh Girl" - The Chi-Lites

Recorded - 1971 or early 1972

Released - March 2, 1972

#1 for week of May 27, 1972. 

     It's amazing just how much the term "R&B" has changed over the years. Most modern day casual music fans associate the term with poppier singers such as Beyonce. The current form of mainstream R&B concentrates more on vocals and beats. Compare this to something like classic Motown, which featured intricate musical arrangements. While this transition from older to modern R&B was quite a long-term change, we can pinpoint a major shift in sound to 1971, with The Chi-Lites. 

     Forming as far back as 1959, The Chi-Lites were a vocal quartet consisting of Eugene Record, Robert Lester, Red Jones, and Marshall Thompson. However, it wouldn't be until 1969 that the quartet saw any chart success and it wouldn't be until 1971 that they struck gold with "Have You Seen Her". Featuring an extremely laid-back music track, with nearly all of the emphasis on vocals, this is a perfect example of proto-modern R&B. Is this a bad thing? Not even remotely! 

     Proof that the earliest examples of a new sound are fresh and new, "Have You Seen Her" is a classic catchy hit with a superb melody. I'm a bit bummed that the song won't be fully covered on this blog. However, I am excited to hear the Chi-Lites' only #1 pop hit, 1972's "Oh Girl". Not being familiar with this song, I only have left to wonder whether this was a successful followup to "Have You Seen Her" or if the song's success is unjustified.

     Right away, the song's melody sounds familiar. I've most certainly heard this song before, and I most certainly consider it a perfect followup single. There is also a much more intricate instrument track than "Have You Seen Her". With piano, soaring strings, and even a melodica, it all sounds VERY Elton John-esque. 

     I'll give the song some further bonus points for being written by its singer, in this case, Eugene Record. His vocal style for this particular song seems once again to be very inspired by Elton John. Add on top of this a rich soulful vocal harmony part and you have instant magic. 

     After the success of "Oh Girl", the Chi-Lites rapidly descended the upper reaches of the pop charts with each subsequent single they released. Sadly Marshall Thompson is the only surviving member of the quartet although he continues to lead the reformed group, now a trio, to this very day. 

Final Verdict - "Oh Girl" is the best song Elton John never wrote. Putting aside these similarities, the song contains an instantly catchy melody and fantastic vocals. It's a thumbs up for me. 

Coming Up Next - "I'll Take You There" by The Staple Singers. 

Until Next Time, Oh Girl (Or Guy)... I'm Dr. Rock -