2:54
I Thank You, 1968
Written by Isaac Hayes David Porter
I'm quite familiar with the ZZ Top version of this song; if I heard the original before, it was long ago and I don't remember it. This is pure soul Memphis groove: punchy horns, syncopated rhythms, and a vocal interplay that feels urgent, joyful, and distinctly communal rather than solitary or cool.. As Sam says in the intro, "And give me some of that old soul clapping." I like how Sam sings the first verse and Dave sings the second. The gospel-infused call-and-response vocals make the contrast between Sam's smooth soul delivery and Dave's rawer, preacher-like intensity.