Tell Me What I Gotta Do
Al Jarreau · Other Songs - Al Jarreau
And I can see
How you shine
Here I am alone with nothin'
But a dream
That you are mine
Just exactly what I'll do
I don't know baby
But I gotta find
A way to reach you
Tell me what I gotta do
To get to your house
Tell me where I gotta go
To be with you
Tell me what I gotta say
To speak to your heart
Tell me what I need
To know tonight
So everything will be all right
Every night I wonder
Just how it would feel
Close to you
I imagine that this
Fantasy is real
You love me too
Got to get from here to there
Here and now baby
Open up your arms
And let me love you
Tell me what I gotta do
To get to your house
Tell me where I gotta go
To be with you
Tell me what I gotta say
To speak to your heart
Tell me what I need
To know tonight
So everything will be all right
Got to get from here
To there
Here and now baby
Open up your arms
And let me love you
Tell me what I gotta do
To get to your house
Tell me where I gotta go
To be with you
Tell me what I gotta say
To speak to your heart
Tell me what I need
To know tonight
So everything will be all right
Tell Me What I Gotta Do
Al Jarreau's "Tell Me What I Gotta Do" stands as a quintessential example of his smooth, jazz-infused vocal style, blending R&B sensibilities with sophisticated phrasing. Released during a period where Jarreau expanded his repertoire beyond traditional standards, the track showcases his ability to navigate complex melodic structures while maintaining an intimate, conversational tone. The recording reflects the polished production typical of his mid-career work, emphasizing lyrical clarity and emotional depth over overt rhythmic complexity. As part of his broader discography, the song exemplifies his commitment to exploring themes of personal agency and emotional vulnerability within the framework of contemporary soul and jazz fusion. It remains a testament to his versatility as a vocalist who seamlessly transitions between pop accessibility and high-art jazz expression.