Jerry Butler's Never Give You Up

As a lover of Chicago soul, Curtis Mayfield & the Impressions, and smooth, jazzy or funky soul music generally, Butler's "Never Give You Up" showcases his vocals, nice vibraphone use, and a catchy love song. Though arguably perhaps no longer "Chicago soul," the orchestrated arrangement, use of vibes, and harmonization suggest Butler's Chicago roots, which is no surprise given the fact that he performed alongside Curtis Mayfield and other Chicago soul legends. Surprisingly, the Black Keys covered this soul gem, and even more shocking, I liked it! My favorite version, however, might be Eddie Floyd's southern soul, funkier version, recorded with Stax. The horn arrangement here and the female back-up vocals perfects Butler's original, Chicago-soul styled version.