This is a cover of Shuggie Otis‘ cult classic, “Strawberry Letter 23,” from 1971’s Freedom Flight. According to several sources, George Johnson was dating one of Otis’ cousins when he discovered the influential album.
The Brothers Johnson recorded their version with Quincy Jones for their hit 1977...
[Intro]
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
[Verse 1]
Hello, my love, I heard a kiss from you
Red magic satin playing near, too
All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine
Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind
In the garden, I see, west purple shower bells and tea
Orange birds and river cousins dressed in green
Pretty music, I hear, so happy and loud
Blue flowers echo from a cherry cloud
[Bridge]
Feel sunshine sparkle pink and blue
Playgrounds will laugh
If you tried to ask, "Or is it cool?" (Is it cool?)
If you arrive and don't see me
I'm gonna be with my baby
I'm free, flyin' in her arms
Over the sea
[Verse 2]
Stained window, yellow candy screen
See speakers of kites
With velvet roses digging freedom flight
[Chorus]
A present from you
Strawberry letter twenty-two
The music plays, I sit in for a few
[Interlude and Guitar Solo]
[Chorus]
A present from you
Strawberry letter twenty-two
The music plays, I sit in for a few
[Outro]
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh-ooh ooh
Strawberry Letter 23 was written by Shuggie Otis.
Strawberry Letter 23 was produced by Quincy Jones.
The Brothers Johnson released Strawberry Letter 23 on Tue Jul 12 1977.