Bill Withers

18.12.02

Bill Withers is probably the least-known singer-songwriter who wrote a lot of well-known songs. "Lean on Me?" Bill did it. "Ain't no Sunshine?" Bill again. "Just the Two of Us?" That was Bill, not Will.

Regardless, the recognition Bill is really missing out on is for some of his other, less Hallmark-ad-like songs. If anybody knows the groovin', smooth bit entitled "Use Me," then you can say you know Bill Withers (that song will, I am sure, be featured here at a later date). Today's pick, however, is the quieter, gentler "Grandma's Hands." Bill's voice comes really comes through in this song, and I still occasionally get chills when listening to it.

There are several versions, as well as a fairly popular remake by Gil Scott Heron. Gil's version is much more grandiose but still worthwhile. It is, in fact, what led me to discover Mr. Withers. Bill's original version, however, is extremely personal and is a different song entirely than the perhaps better-known remake.

Most of Bill's albums have the same, or very similar, version of "Grandma's Hands." You can most likely find a Bill Withers "Best of" type of deal without much effort and for little cash. I had the good fortune to stumble upon this little gem of a song, yet in a different versions than all the ones I own, the other day.

It is absolutely wonderful.

Download it here: download no longer available, contact me to find out how to get it.