Wilson Pickett – In the Midnight Hour

About The Song

“In the Midnight Hour” is a classic soul song by American singer Wilson Pickett, released in 1965. Known for its infectious rhythm, powerful vocals, and iconic horn arrangement, the song has become a cornerstone of soul and R&B music. Wilson Pickett’s energetic performance and the song’s timeless appeal have contributed to its enduring popularity.

5 Facts about Wilson Pickett’s “In the Midnight Hour” (1965):

Songwriting Collaboration: “In the Midnight Hour” was co-written by Wilson Pickett and Steve Cropper, a guitarist for Booker T. & the M.G.’s. The collaboration between Pickett and Cropper resulted in a soulful composition that would become one of the most celebrated tracks in Pickett’s career.
Signature Horn Section: The song features a memorable horn arrangement, played by the Stax Records house band, the Mar-Keys. The combination of the horns with Pickett’s dynamic vocal delivery created a powerful and distinctive sound that set the song apart and contributed to its success.
Commercial Success: “In the Midnight Hour” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the R&B charts and crossing over to the pop charts, where it peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success solidified Wilson Pickett’s status as a leading figure in the soul music scene.
Cultural Impact: The song’s title and lyrics, expressing the longing for love and the yearning that intensifies in the late hours of the night, resonated with audiences. “In the Midnight Hour” became not only a musical hit but also a cultural touchstone that captured the spirit of the mid-1960s.
Cover Versions: Over the years, “In the Midnight Hour” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, highlighting its enduring influence. Artists such as The Commitments, Cross Canadian Ragweed, and The Jam have all released their interpretations of this soul classic, contributing to its longevity and continued relevance.

Video

Lyrics

I’m gonna wait ’til the midnight hour
That’s when my love come tumbling down
I’m gonna wait ’til the midnight hour
When there’s no one else around
I’m gonna take you, girl, and hold you
And do all things I told you, in the midnight hour

Yes I am, oh, yes I am
One more thing I just wanna say right here

I’m gonna wait ’til the stars come out
And see that twinkle in your eyes
I’m gonna wait ’til the midnight hour
That’s when my love begins to shine

You’re the only girl I know
That really love me so, in the midnight hour

Oh yeah, in the midnight hour
Yeah, alright, play it for me one time now

I’m gonna wait ’til the midnight hour
That’s when my love come tumbling down
I’m gonna wait, way in the midnight hour
That’s when my love begin to shine, just you and I
Oh, baby, huh, just you and I
Nobody around, baby, just you and I
Alright, you know what?
I’m gonna hold you in my arms, just you and I
Oh yeah, in the midnight hour
Oh baby, in the midnight hour