“I Keep Forgettin'” by Michael McDonald: A Soulful Classic That Stands the Test of Time
When “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)” was released in 1982, it instantly became a hallmark of Michael McDonald’s smooth, soulful sound. A track that blends R&B, pop, and blue-eyed soul, “I Keep Forgettin'” was not only a huge hit for McDonald but also defined much of the musical landscape of the early ’80s. With its haunting melody, McDonald’s unmistakable voice, and the emotional depth of its lyrics, the song has continued to resonate with listeners across generations.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the origins of the song, what makes it so enduring, and why it remains one of McDonald’s most beloved hits.
The Origins of “I Keep Forgettin’”
“I Keep Forgettin’” was released as a single from Michael McDonald’s debut solo album, “If That’s What It Takes”, in 1982. By that point, McDonald had already made a name for himself as the lead singer of The Doobie Brothers, where he contributed his unique vocal style to hits like “What a Fool Believes” and “Takin’ It to the Streets.” However, “I Keep Forgettin’” marked his transition into a solo career and showcased his ability to blend pop, R&B, and soul into something entirely his own.
The song was written by McDonald and his longtime collaborator, Ed Sanford, of the songwriting and production duo Sanford and Townsend. The track features McDonald’s signature smooth, almost aching vocal delivery, which perfectly complements its emotional, introspective lyrics.
The production of “I Keep Forgettin'” is unmistakable with its polished, soft rock instrumentation, smooth keyboards, and intricate, yet subtle, rhythm section. McDonald’s use of his voice, combined with the instrumentation, creates an almost ethereal atmosphere that draws listeners in.
What Makes “I Keep Forgettin’” So Special?
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Michael McDonald’s Signature Voice
One of the defining characteristics of “I Keep Forgettin’” is McDonald’s unmistakable, soulful voice. With his rich baritone and falsetto, McDonald gives the song a level of emotional depth that makes the lyrics hit harder. His vocal performance conveys a sense of longing, regret, and vulnerability, which is part of the song’s charm. His voice is the heart and soul of the track, pulling listeners into its story of personal conflict and emotional turmoil. -
The Lyrics: A Story of Heartbreak and Denial
The lyrics of “I Keep Forgettin’” reflect the classic theme of a love that is slipping away or a relationship that is fading, a common thread in soul and R&B music. The protagonist struggles with the reality of a relationship that isn’t as it once was, and the repeated refrain “I keep forgettin’” speaks to his inability to fully let go or move on. The poignant mix of nostalgia and regret creates a relatable narrative for anyone who’s ever experienced the heartache of holding on to a past love.
The lyrics have a vulnerability that echoes the feeling of a love that lingers despite the inevitable realization that it’s over. This universal theme of emotional conflict and unrequited love resonates deeply with listeners, which is part of the reason why the song remains so beloved.
- Smooth Production and Instrumentation
The song’s production is a key component of its success. “I Keep Forgettin’” has a signature sound that blends McDonald’s smooth vocal delivery with lush synthesizers, soft percussion, and a clean, polished bassline. The production style was ahead of its time, combining elements of 1980s pop with more classic R&B influences, creating a timeless sound that still feels fresh today.
The keyboard lines and background vocals help support the emotional undercurrent of the song, giving it a spacious, almost dreamy quality. Every element complements McDonald’s voice perfectly, enhancing the song’s soulfulness and emotional depth.
- Catchy and Memorable Hook
One of the song’s most memorable aspects is its catchy hook: “I keep forgettin’ we ever met.” The simplicity and repetition of this phrase make it easy for listeners to sing along with, and it sticks in your mind long after the song is over. It’s a lyric that encapsulates the feeling of emotional denial and the difficulty of moving on from a past relationship.
Chart Success and Cultural Impact
“I Keep Forgettin’” became one of Michael McDonald’s most successful solo singles, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1982. It also saw success on the R&B charts, which was a testament to McDonald’s ability to bridge the worlds of pop, soul, and R&B. The song’s success helped establish McDonald as a solo artist, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most soulful and distinctive voices of his generation.
In addition to its chart success, “I Keep Forgettin’” became a staple of 1980s pop and soul music. Its blend of smooth rock, R&B, and soft pop was emblematic of the era’s musical trends, and it continues to be a favorite on classic pop and soul playlists. The song’s enduring popularity has kept it relevant in pop culture, often appearing in films, TV shows, and commercials that look to capture the sound of the 1980s.
The Song’s Lasting Legacy
Since its release, “I Keep Forgettin’” has remained a beloved track in Michael McDonald’s catalog. Its soul-soaked melody and emotional lyrics have ensured that it remains an essential part of the 1980s musical landscape. McDonald’s work as a solo artist, particularly “I Keep Forgettin'”, helped solidify his place as one of the era’s most distinctive voices.
The song’s influence can be heard in the music of contemporary artists who blend soul, pop, and R&B. Artists like John Mayer and Leon Bridges have cited McDonald’s ability to blend genres and emotions as an influence on their own sound. “I Keep Forgettin'” is still regarded as one of McDonald’s most iconic hits, and it continues to be a go-to track for fans who appreciate its vulnerability and smooth, soulful groove.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
“I Keep Forgettin’” is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and emotional conflict, all wrapped in Michael McDonald’s smooth, soulful vocals. The song’s timeless production, unforgettable melody, and relatable lyrics have kept it fresh for decades. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it after years, “I Keep Forgettin’” remains an essential part of Michael McDonald’s legacy and an enduring classic that continues to captivate audiences across the world.
Lyrics: I Keep Forgettin’
I keep forgettin’ we’re not in love anymore
I keep forgettin’ things will never be the same again
I keep forgettin’ how you made that so clear
I keep forgettin’, darlin’Every time you’re near
Every time I see you smile
Hear your “hello”
Saying you can only stay a whileHey, I know that it’s hard for you
To say the things that we both know are true
But tell me how come IKeep forgettin’ we’re not in love anymore
I keep forgettin’ things will never be the same again
I keep forgettin’ how you made that so clear
I keep forgettin’, babyEverytime I hear
How you never want to live a lie
How it’s gone too far
And you don’t have to tell me whyWhy you’re gone and why the game is through
If this is what’s real, if this is what’s true
Tell me how come IKeep forgettin’ we’re not in love anymore, baby
I keep forgettin’ things will never be the same again
I keep forgettin’ how you made that so clear, yeah, yeah
I keep forgettin’, babeDon’t say that, don’t say that, don’t say that
I know you’re not mine anymore, anyway, anytime
Tell me how come IKeep forgettin’ we’re not in love anymore
(How come I)
I keep forgettin’ things will never be the same again
I keep forgettin’ how you made that so clear
I keep forgettin’, baby
Every time you’re nearKeep forgettin’ we’re not in love anymore
(Every time you’re near)
I keep forgettin’ things will never be the same again
(Hey, baby)
I keep forgettin’ how you made that so clear
(Every time you’re near)
I keep forgettin’
