Add a little sugar
“Makings of You” is a soulful and romantic ballad by Curtis Mayfield that was released in 1970. The song expresses Mayfield’s admiration for the small, intimate moments that make up a relationship, and how those moments can reveal the true character of a person. The lyrics are filled with tenderness and poetry, and are delivered with Mayfield’s unmistakable soulful voice.
The song’s opening line, “Add a little sugar, honeysuckle and a great big expression of happiness,” sets the tone for the rest of the lyrics, which are full of nature imagery and metaphorical language. Mayfield sings about the “mighty ocean and a gentle kiss,” and how a simple smile can “bring out the love that’s inside you.” The song is a celebration of love, and the beauty and joy that can be found in life’s small moments.
The song was released during the peak of the civil rights movement and is reflective of the era’s social and political climate. Mayfield’s music often dealt with themes of social justice, and “Makings of You” was no exception. The song’s gentle melody and soft, soulful vocals served as a counterpoint to the tumultuous times, offering a message of hope and a reminder that love and beauty can still exist in the face of adversity.
Overall, “Makings of You” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of love and relationships in a way that only Curtis Mayfield could. The song’s lyrics are poignant and poetic, and its message of love and hope is just as relevant today as it was when it was first released over 50 years ago.