Something About You - A Smooth Serenade Blending Soulful Vocals with Seductive Synth Melodies

Released in 1987, “Something About You” by R&B singer and songwriter, Level 42, remains a testament to the enduring power of soulful vocals intertwined with captivating synth melodies. This song, featured on their sixth studio album Running In The Family, transcended genre boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide with its smooth rhythm and romantic lyrics. Level 42, formed in Isleworth, England in 1979, consisted of Mark King (bass guitar, lead vocals), Boon Gould (guitar), Mike Lindup (keyboards, backing vocals), Phil Gould (drums, percussion), and Wally Badarou (synthesizers).

Their unique blend of jazz fusion, funk, and pop sensibilities earned them a dedicated following in the 1980s. “Something About You” perfectly encapsulates Level 42’s signature sound – driving basslines intertwined with shimmering synths, all underpinned by Mark King’s distinctive gravelly vocals.

The song opens with an alluring synth melody that immediately sets a seductive tone. This ethereal backdrop is soon joined by a tight drum groove and pulsating bassline, creating a foundation for the soulful yearning expressed in the lyrics.

Mark King’s voice is both vulnerable and powerful as he sings about the undeniable allure of an unseen lover:

“Something about you, it makes me wanna cry Something about you, it’s driving me crazy”.

The repetition of this refrain emphasizes the overwhelming emotion the singer experiences, hinting at a love both captivating and confusing.

The lyrical simplicity is deceptive. It allows listeners to project their own experiences onto the narrative, making “Something About You” resonate with audiences across generations.

Musical Structure and Key Elements:

The instrumental bridge provides a moment of respite from the lyrical narrative. It showcases Level 42’s instrumental prowess with intricate interplay between guitar, keyboards, and drums.

The song culminates in a powerful crescendo, as King repeats the chorus with increasing intensity, leaving listeners emotionally charged.

Historical Context: Level 42 enjoyed immense success throughout the 1980s. Their debut album Level 42 (1981) was followed by several critically acclaimed releases.

“Something About You” was their breakthrough single in the United States, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying their international fame. The song’s success paved the way for future hits such as “Lessons In Love,” “The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up),” and “Hot Water.”

Although Level 42 disbanded in 1994, they reunited briefly in the late 1990s and again in 2006. Mark King continued to perform as a solo artist until his untimely death in 2017 at the age of 57. “Something About You” remains a beloved classic,

celebrated for its timeless melody, romantic lyrics, and enduring appeal across generations.

Legacy and Influence:

The influence of “Something About You” can be felt in the work of countless artists who followed. Its blend of soulful vocals, infectious synth melodies, and driving rhythms paved the way for a wave of R&B artists seeking to incorporate elements of jazz and pop into their sound.

Listen closely, and you may hear echoes of Level 42’s signature style in contemporary acts such as The Weeknd, Bruno Mars, and Jhené Aiko.

“Something About You” is more than just a catchy song; it’s a sonic tapestry woven with threads of love, longing, and musical innovation. It remains a testament to the enduring power of music to touch hearts and transcend time.