“Let’s Stick Together”: A Stylish Anthem of Enduring Love and Playful Persuasion.
There are certain voices in music that are instantly recognizable, imbued with a unique blend of sophistication, cool, and an almost theatrical flair. For those who remember the vibrant, often audacious, musical landscape of the 1970s, Bryan Ferry’s distinct croon stands out as a singular artistic signature. While he was already celebrated as the enigmatic frontman of Roxy Music, his solo work allowed him to explore different facets of his musical personality, often revisiting and reimagining classic tunes. His iconic 1976 single, “Let’s Stick Together,” is a prime example of this artistry – a track that isn’t merely a cover, but a stylish transformation, brimming with a knowing charm and an irresistible invitation to steadfast affection. For older readers, it conjures memories of a time when music was an act of refined rebellion, and sophisticated pop could still carry a genuine, heartfelt message.
Upon its release as a single in June 1976, “Let’s Stick Together” proved to be a significant commercial success for Bryan Ferry in the UK, solidifying his presence as a compelling solo artist. It soared to number 4 on the Official UK Singles Chart, becoming one of his most recognizable and enduring solo hits. While its chart performance in the United States was more modest, primarily gaining traction on album-oriented rock radio and becoming a cult favorite, its cultural impact in the UK and beyond was undeniable. The song was a staple on radio airwaves, its infectious rhythm and Ferry’s suave delivery making it a pervasive soundtrack to the mid-70s. For many, it marked a defining moment in Ferry’s solo career, showcasing his ability to take a venerable blues standard and infuse it with his inimitable brand of glamorous, art-rock cool.
The story behind “Let’s Stick Together” is a fascinating journey through musical history, demonstrating Bryan Ferry’s deep appreciation for the roots of rhythm and blues. The song itself is a revival of a much older classic, originally written and recorded by the legendary American blues and R&B musician Wilbert Harrison in 1962. Harrison’s version, a shuffling, upbeat blues number, was a moderate hit, known for its direct appeal and simple, relatable lyrics about staying united.
Bryan Ferry’s decision to cover this particular song for his third solo album, Let’s Stick Together (which was effectively a re-release of his 1973 album These Foolish Things with a different tracklist and the addition of this title track), was a stroke of genius. He didn’t just cover it; he reinvented it. Ferry took Harrison’s raw blues framework and draped it in his signature blend of cabaret elegance, rock and roll swagger, and a subtle touch of anachronistic charm. The arrangement is sophisticated, featuring his distinctive vocals, a playful saxophone, and a driving rhythm section that gives the song a magnetic energy. The accompanying music video, showcasing Ferry’s iconic slicked-back hair and a sultry siren, further cemented the song’s stylish allure and became a visual emblem of his cool persona. This transformation is a testament to Ferry’s unique interpretive genius, turning a straightforward blues tune into a sophisticated pop-rock anthem.
The meaning of “Let’s Stick Together” is, at its core, a plea for enduring companionship and loyalty, albeit delivered with a captivating blend of earnestness and playful seduction. The lyrics are a straightforward proposition for unity: “Come on baby, let’s stick together / Make it right, yeah, make it last forever.” It speaks to the universal human desire for connection, for finding a steadfast partner to weather life’s storms. However, in Ferry’s hands, the song takes on an additional layer of meaning. His delivery, full of insinuation and a knowing wink, suggests a sophisticated understanding of relationships – acknowledging the ups and downs while asserting the power of shared commitment. For older listeners, this song evokes memories of enduring partnerships, of the effort and joy in building a lasting bond, and perhaps even the early stages of a romance where promises felt eternal. It’s a reminder that beneath the layers of style and sophistication, the fundamental human need for connection and shared journey remains timeless. “Let’s Stick Together” is a brilliant fusion of past and present, a testament to Bryan Ferry’s unique ability to imbue classic sounds with contemporary elegance, creating a song that is both deeply nostalgic and eternally chic.