Johnnie Taylor's Soulful Ballads: Unpacking the Classics of 'Good Love'

Released in 1973, Johnnie Taylor's album 'Good Love' is a soul music treasure chest overflowing with heart-wrenching balladry. As one of the last remaining giants of classic soul, Taylor masterfully interprets timeless love songs that continue to captivate audiences today.

The title track itself sets the tone for what follows - an achingly beautiful rendition of 'Good Love,' its smooth falsetto and heartfelt delivery evoking memories both fond and bittersweet. But beyond this opening salvo lies a wealth of other soulful gems waiting to be rediscovered.

Tracks like 'Last Two Dollars' speak directly to those struggling on the financial precipice, while songs such as 'Sending You A Kiss' exude warmth and longing despite their somber subject matter. Each track is carefully crafted by Taylor's deft hand, imbuing even the most downbeat lyrics with an infectious optimism.

But it isn't just his own original compositions that make this album so compelling - cover versions also feature heavily throughout. His soulful take on 'Walk Away With Me,' for instance, brings a fresh perspective to what could otherwise have been another generic reinterpretation of The Five Stairsteps' 1970 hit single.

Other highlights include the nostalgia-tinged balladry found in 'Too Many Memories' - a poignant reflection upon past loves that still linger long after they've gone. And then there's his soulful reworking of Otis Redding's classic love song 'Ain't That Lovin' You (For More Reasons),'

Throughout this collection, Johnnie Taylor proves himself to be an artist who can effortlessly switch between raw emotion and pure vulnerability - qualities that have cemented him as one of the greatest vocalists in soul music history. So sit back, put your feet up, grab a glass of fine whiskey and let these timeless classics transport you back to an era when love was indeed 'Good.

Johnnie taylor good love! songs