Oh Darlin’…Life Goes On
Minnie Riperton
Stay In Love, 1977 (not available on iTunes)
Epic/CBS Records
I ranted about the Minnie Riperton compilation I have before (and soul/funk single artist compilations in general). I’ve since picked up two more Minnie compilations (1,2) that are much more comprehensive. I have 5 of her 6 albums on vinyl and comparing them to the different Best Of’s I would estimate that about 75% of her songs are represented. I love Minnie but there are some real snoozers on these comps and the one stellar track that isn’t on any of them is “Oh Darlin’…Life Goes On.”
This track feels so true to life for me. It captures that moment some time after a painful breakup that, although the pain hasn’t gone away, the relationship steps back and assumes it’s appropriate amount of mental space. She presents both sides; that she misses him and regrets being with him but she does it from such a place of convincing tenderness that I feel myself cheering her on (meanwhile it’s not her life, she didn’t write the song).
I wake alone at night
I ache to hold you tight
Oh darlin’, it’s just not right
The damage has been done
I’ve got to have some fun
Forget you, i wish i never met you
Oh darlin’
I know you’ve done me wrong
I need you darlin’
But life goes on, life goes on
I’ll get along…
The tone reminds me of “Heartbreak Road” by Bill Withers where he says “wonder who’ll be waiting for me at the end of heartbreak road. I hope that she’ll be tender, someone I can know.” I thought I had posted that song already but I haven’t. Maybe I’ll post that next week, I love themes…
Songs are available for two weeks.
