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Introduction
The song “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” is a timeless duet that showcases the powerful vocals of Aretha Franklin and George Michael. Released in 1987, it became an international hit, reaching number one in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the extraordinary chemistry between the two singers.
The origins of “I Knew You Were Waiting” can be traced back to the early 1980s when songwriter and producer Eurythmics member David A. Stewart was working on a song idea. He envisioned a duet featuring a female soul singer and a male pop star. With the help of his writing partner, Tom Kelly, Stewart crafted a love song that expressed a deep connection between two individuals who had been waiting for each other their entire lives.
Initially, Stewart had hoped to pair Aretha Franklin with Michael Jackson for the duet. However, due to scheduling conflicts, Jackson was unable to participate. Instead, Stewart approached George Michael, who was at the height of his fame with the group Wham!. Michael was immediately drawn to the song and agreed to collaborate with Franklin.
The recording of “I Knew You Were Waiting” took place in London in 1987. Franklin and Michael recorded their respective vocals separately before the two tracks were combined. The song’s arrangement features a lush production with a prominent bassline, soulful horns, and a gospel-infused choir. Franklin’s powerful vocals take center stage, while Michael’s smooth and soulful voice complements her perfectly.
The music video for “I Knew You Were Waiting” was directed by Julien Temple and features black and white footage of Franklin and Michael performing the song in a grand, opulent setting. The video’s stark visual aesthetic adds to the song’s timeless quality.
“I Knew You Were Waiting” was a critical and commercial success, earning numerous awards and nominations. The song also helped to revitalize Franklin’s career, solidifying her status as one of the greatest singers of all time. Today, the song remains a beloved classic, a testament to the enduring power of music and the extraordinary talents of Aretha Franklin and George Michael.