It's How You Say It
Al Jarreau · Other Songs - Al Jarreau
Don't you turn away, something I say
Could keep her faithful and true
Used to say, satin, silk and lace
Fascinate a pretty face
Bet you're life she'll stay
I was stunned, struck dumb y'all
Total strangers when she walked away, she told me
It's how you say it, it's all in how you play it
If it's a love I get to feeling it baby
It's how you move me, it's all in how you do me
If it's for real we make a melody down in my soul
Callin' all players, Don Juan, Romeo too
Please dont' turn away, everything I say
Is with affection for you
She's in pain, cause' when you hit and run
Like you're blind, deaf, and dumb, every dreams' undone
Only one way to hold her
Be for real before she walks away
It's how you say it, it's all in how you play it
If it's a love I get to feeling it baby
It's how you move me, it's all in how you do me
If it's for real I get a tickle down in my soul
It's how you say it, it's all in how you play it
If it's a love I get to feeling it baby
It's how you move me, it's all in how you do me
If it's for real I get a tickle in the middle
Round and round, they all fall down
It's just a losing game when you break it down
(Let me just break it down)
[Repeat: x2]
It's how you say it, all in how you play it
If it's a love I get to feeling it baby
It's how you move me, it's all in how you do me
If it's for real I get a tickle down in my soul
It's How You Say It
Al Jarreau's 'It's How You Say It' stands as a quintessential example of his mastery over vocal phrasing and jazz-inflected pop sensibilities. Released during a period where Jarreau balanced his commercial appeal with sophisticated improvisation, the track showcases his signature ability to blend smooth crooning with rhythmic complexity. The song reflects the broader tradition of late 20th-century R&B and jazz fusion, emphasizing the emotional nuance conveyed through delivery rather than rigid structure. Jarreau's performance highlights his versatility as a vocalist who could navigate both mainstream radio formats and the more intricate demands of jazz standards. The recording captures the essence of his career, where technical precision met accessible melody, reinforcing his status as a leading figure in contemporary vocal jazz.