Kool And The Gang – Cherish: Lyrics and Music Video

"Cherish" by Kool & the Gang is a romantic ballad that became one of the band’s biggest hits, released in 1985 on their album Emergency. Known for its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song showcases Kool & the Gang's ability to deliver a powerful ballad in addition to their upbeat dance hits. "Cherish" was co-written by band members Robert "Kool" Bell and Ronald Bell, and it celebrates themes of love, devotion, and appreciation for cherished relationships.

Key Details:

• Release Date: May 1985
• Album: Emergency (1984)
• Writers: Robert "Kool" Bell, Ronald Bell, Dwayne "Jones" Simon, Claydes Smith, George Brown, James "J.T." Taylor
• Producer: Kool & the Gang

Themes and Meaning:

• Love and Appreciation: The song’s lyrics express gratitude for loved ones, encouraging listeners to cherish the people close to them.

• Longing and Devotion: There’s a bittersweet quality to the song, as it speaks to the preciousness of relationships, urging listeners not to take love for granted.

Lyrics Overview:

The chorus captures the essence of the song’s message of treasuring love and relationships:

• "Cherish the love we have, we should cherish the life we live."

These lyrics reflect the importance of embracing and valuing the present, highlighting the band’s reflective approach to love and life.

Musical Style:

• Smooth R&B Ballad with Pop and Soul Influences: "Cherish" has a gentle, soothing melody, featuring soft guitar, synths, and harmonized vocals that create a calm, romantic atmosphere.

• Emotive Lead Vocals by J.T. Taylor: Lead singer James "J.T." Taylor delivers a soulful vocal performance that conveys the song’s affectionate and tender message.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance:
  • "Cherish" reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the R&B chart in the United States. It also performed well internationally, cementing its status as one of Kool & the Gang’s most successful ballads.

The song’s popularity contributed to the multi-platinum success of Emergency and solidified Kool & the Gang’s versatility in both upbeat and slower songs.

Background and Creation:

• Shift to Romantic Themes: Known for their upbeat, funk-driven tracks, Kool & the Gang embraced a more romantic, sentimental sound with "Cherish," which showcased their versatility and ability to create heartfelt ballads.

• Crafting a Timeless Ballad: The band wanted to write a song that celebrated love and the special moments in life, creating a track that feels timeless and relatable across generations.

Legacy and Reception:

• Critical and Fan Acclaim: "Cherish" received praise for its heartfelt lyrics and smooth production, and it became one of Kool & the Gang’s most beloved songs. Fans embraced it as a classic love ballad that speaks to the importance of cherishing loved ones.

• Enduring Popularity: The song remains popular in wedding playlists, romantic compilations, and 80s music collections, cherished for its nostalgic and sentimental message.

• Signature Song for Kool & the Gang: While Kool & the Gang are known for dance hits like "Celebration" and "Get Down on It," "Cherish" remains one of their signature songs, reflecting a softer side of the band’s musical talents.

Cultural Impact:

• Romantic and Nostalgic Appeal: "Cherish" has become a classic love ballad, often associated with weddings, anniversaries, and special occasions. Its message of appreciating love resonates with audiences across generations.

• Popular in 80s Music and Love Ballad Collections: The song is frequently included in 80s and love song compilations, celebrated as one of the era’s most enduring romantic tracks.

In Summary:

"Cherish" by Kool & the Gang is a timeless love ballad about valuing and cherishing relationships. Released in 1985, the song became a major hit and highlighted the band’s versatility. With its heartfelt lyrics, smooth melody, and soulful vocals, "Cherish" remains one of Kool & the Gang’s most iconic songs, celebrated for its romantic message and emotional depth.