About the Song
Background:
- Released in 1965 (though recorded in 1964), the song was a single from the album “Out of Sight”.
- It became Brown’s biggest hit, topping the Billboard R&B chart and reaching number one on the pop chart.
- The song is considered a prime example of Brown’s developing funk sound, with its driving rhythm section emphasizing the “on-beat” feel and his signature soulful vocals.
Themes:
- The song is an energetic celebration of love and happiness.
- Brown sings about feeling good (“nice, like sugar and spice”) because he’s found love.
- It’s a simple theme, but Brown’s infectious energy and delivery make it an anthem for good times.
Lyrics:
The lyrics are full of Brown’s characteristic call-and-response with his backing group, the Famous Flames. Here are some notable parts:
- “I got you (I feel good)! I feel good (I got you)!” – The central refrain, expressing the joy of love.
- “A-ha, get up (I feel like being a) sex machine!” – A suggestive line that became one of the song’s most famous (and controversial) parts. It’s interpreted as both pure energy and celebration of life.
- “Everybody get on the good foot, let’s do it!” – An invitation to join the party and celebrate.
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” remains a cultural touchstone.
- It’s been sampled countless times in hip-hop and other genres.
- Its instantly recognizable melody and Brown’s iconic performance have secured its place in music history.
Video
Lyric
Whoa! I feel good, I knew that I would, nowI feel good, I knew that I would, nowSo good, so good, I got you
Whoa! I feel nice, like sugar and spiceI feel nice, like sugar and spiceSo nice, so nice, I got you
When I hold you in my armsI know that I can’t do no wrongAnd when I hold you in my armsMy love won’t do you no harm
And I feel nice, like sugar and spiceI feel nice, like sugar and spiceSo nice, so nice, I got you
When I hold you in my armsI know that I can’t do no wrongAnd when I hold you in my armsMy love can’t do me no harm
And I feel nice, like sugar and spiceI feel nice, like sugar and spiceSo nice, so nice, ’cause I got you
Whoa! And I feel good, I knew that I would, nowI feel good, I knew that I wouldSo good, so good, ’cause I got youSo good, so good, ’cause I got youSo good, so good, ’cause I got you
HeyOh-whoo