About The Song
“Soul on Fire” is a classic rhythm and blues song performed by LaVern Baker. Released in 1953, the song is a powerful and soulful expression of love and desire. LaVern Baker’s dynamic vocal delivery and the song’s energetic arrangement contributed to its success and enduring status in the R&B genre.
Five Facts:
- Signature Hit for LaVern Baker: “Soul on Fire” is considered one of LaVern Baker’s signature songs. Her passionate and emotive rendition of the song established her as a prominent figure in the R&B and early rock and roll scenes in the 1950s.
- Co-Written by LaVern Baker: LaVern Baker co-wrote “Soul on Fire” with her manager, Ahmet Ertegun, who later co-founded Atlantic Records. The collaboration resulted in a song that showcased Baker’s vocal prowess and contributed to her success as a recording artist.
- Chart Success: “Soul on Fire” achieved commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1953. Its popularity marked the beginning of LaVern Baker’s successful career, and she continued to release influential R&B and rock and roll records throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
- Influence on Future Generations: The song’s impact extended beyond its initial release, influencing later generations of musicians. “Soul on Fire” has been covered by various artists, including artists from diverse genres such as rock, pop, and soul, attesting to its enduring appeal.
- Evolution of Baker’s Style: LaVern Baker’s early recordings, including “Soul on Fire,” showcased her ability to blend R&B, gospel, and jazz influences. Her versatile vocal style allowed her to transition between ballads and uptempo numbers, contributing to her reputation as a versatile and dynamic performer.
Video
Lyrics
I let it fall, my heart
And as it fell, you rose to claim it
It was dark and I was over
Until you kissed my lips and you saved me
My hands, they were strong, but my knees were far too weak
To stand in your arms without falling to your feet
But there’s a side to you that I never knew, never knew
All the things you’d say, they were never true, never true
And the games you’d play, you would always win, always win
But I set fire to the rain
Watched it pour as I touched your face
Well, it burned while I cried
‘Cause I heard it screaming out your name, your name
When laying with you I could stay there
Close my eyes, feel you here forever
You and me together, nothing is better
‘Cause there’s a side to you that I never knew, never knew
All the things you’d say, they were never true, never true
And the games you’s play, you would always win, always win
But I set fire to the rain
Watched it pour as I touched your face
Well, it burned while I cried
‘Cause I heard it screaming out your name, your name
I set fire to the rain
And I threw us into the flames
When we fell, something died
‘Cause I knew that that was the last time, the last time
Sometimes I wake up by the door
That heart you caught must be waiting for you
Even now when we’re already over
I can’t help myself from looking for you
I set fire to the rain
Watched it pour as I touch your face
Well, it burned while I cried
‘Cause I heard it screaming out your name, your name
I set fire to the rain
And I threw us into the flames
When we fell, something died
‘Cause I knew that that was the last time, the last time, oh
Oh, no
Let it burn, oh
Let it burn
Let it burn