Ashford & Simpson – Is It Still Good to Ya: A Soulful Ballad of Love’s Endurance
In the realm of soul music, Ashford & Simpson stand as a towering duo, their harmonious vocals and heartfelt lyrics weaving tales of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Among their enduring hits, “Is It Still Good to Ya” holds a special place, a poignant ballad that explores the fading embers of love and the yearning for rekindled passion.
Background
Released in 1978 as the title track of their album of the same name, “Is It Still Good to Ya” marked a turning point in Ashford & Simpson’s career, showcasing their songwriting prowess and ability to deliver soul-stirring ballads. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number three on the Billboard R&B Singles chart, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
The song’s narrative follows a couple struggling to rekindle the spark in their long-term relationship. Ashford’s vocals, imbued with a world-weary tenderness, express the protagonist’s doubts and insecurities as he questions whether their love can withstand the test of time. Simpson’s voice, soaring with a soulful intensity, interweaves with Ashford’s, portraying the other partner’s unwavering devotion and desire to salvage their fading love.
The lyrics, penned by Ashford & Simpson themselves, capture the raw emotions of a love teetering on the brink. The chorus, a poignant plea for reassurance, serves as the song’s emotional anchor:
Is it still good to ya?
Can I still make you happy? Is it still good to ya?
Or have you found somebody new?
The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in understated elegance, featuring a simple yet evocative interplay of piano, bass, and drums. The instrumental backdrop perfectly complements the couple’s emotional journey, allowing their voices and heartfelt lyrics to take center stage.
“Is It Still Good to Ya” has resonated with listeners for generations, its message of love’s resilience and the struggle to maintain a lasting connection transcending cultural and generational divides. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, and Chaka Khan, further solidifying its status as a soul music staple.
Beyond its commercial success, “Is It Still Good to Ya” has garnered critical acclaim for its poignant lyrics, soulful melodies, and Ashford & Simpson’s captivating vocals. The song has been praised for its ability to capture the universal human experience of questioning love’s longevity and the yearning for reconnection, making it a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts worldwide.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson.
- It was released in 1978 as the title track of their album Is It Still Good to Ya.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number three on the Billboard R&B Singles chart.
- “Is It Still Good to Ya” has been covered by numerous artists, including Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, and Chaka Khan.