“If You Don’t Know Me By Now” is a soul ballad originally recorded by the American R&B group Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes. The song was written by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff and was released in 1972 on their album “Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes.”
The song is characterized by its emotional lyrics and the powerful, soulful vocals of the lead singer, Teddy Pendergrass. “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” reflects the pain and frustration of a person who feels unappreciated and misunderstood in a relationship. The narrator questions why their partner doesn’t understand their true feelings despite the time they have spent together.
The song became one of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes’ most successful hits. It reached the top of the Billboard R&B chart and also climbed to the top of the charts in various other countries. The heartfelt lyrics, coupled with Pendergrass’ soul-stirring delivery, resonated with audiences and made the song a classic in the soul and R&B genres.
“If You Don’t Know Me By Now” has been covered by several artists over the years, but Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes’ original version remains a quintessential soul ballad, celebrated for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
