Introduction:
“When a Man Loves a Woman,” performed by Percy Sledge, is a soul classic that cemented its place in music history with its emotional depth and timeless appeal. Released in 1966 as Sledge’s debut single, the song reached number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, becoming the first Southern soul track to achieve this feat. Its impact was profound, setting a benchmark for soul ballads with its heartfelt delivery and evocative lyrics.
The song originated from a deeply personal moment in Sledge’s life. Inspired by heartbreak after his girlfriend left him for a modeling career, Sledge improvised the original melody and lyrics during a live performance. With input from Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright, the song evolved into the version we know today. Recorded in the renowned Muscle Shoals music scene and released under Atlantic Records, the track’s lush arrangement, highlighted by Spooner Oldham’s iconic organ work, further solidified its emotional resonance.
“When a Man Loves a Woman” has transcended generations, appearing in films, advertisements, and covers by artists like Michael Bolton, who also achieved chart success with the song in 1991. The ballad has become synonymous with love and devotion, often played at weddings and romantic events. Despite its romantic overtones, its origins reflect vulnerability and loss, adding to its authenticity and enduring appeal.
Sledge later expressed regret for relinquishing songwriting credit entirely to Lewis and Wright, as the song’s success was largely shaped by his personal experience and vocal performance. Nevertheless, it remains a defining work of his career, earning him a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and enduring as a quintessential soul anthem.