What makes Still Bill by Bill Withers notable?

Still Bill includes the iconic hit Lean on Me, which became an anthem for community and support, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album's critical acclaim helped cement Withers’ status as a significant voice in American music during the '70s. Released in 1972, Still Bill was Bill Withers' second studio album, following his successful debut, Just As I Am. At this point in his career, Withers was solidifying his reputation as a soulful storyteller with relatable themes, which would resonate widely with audiences.

Who is Still Bill for?

Still Bill works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, warm, inviting atmosphere and thoughtful reflective moments.

How many songs are on Still Bill?

Still Bill has 12 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Still Bill

Bill Withers · 1972

44 min · 12 tracks · pop music

A warm blend of soul and R&B that marries heartfelt lyrics with infectious grooves and timeless melodies.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Lean on Me — This track is a powerful anthem about friendship and support that has become synonymous with community resilience, showcasing Withers' gift for universal storytelling.
→
Use Me — With its catchy groove and candid exploration of desire, Use Me stands out as a bold expression of vulnerability and honesty in relationships.
→
Who Is He (And What Is He to You)? — This track combines intrigue and emotional depth, featuring a haunting melody that captures the complexity of love and connection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

Withers blends heartfelt lyrics and infectious grooves, creating a memorable and relatable album.

What we noticed

The first four tracks establish a steady groove with rhythmic bass lines and layered instrumentation, creating a cohesive sound.
Several songs feature call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel of the music.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
warm, inviting atmosphere
thoughtful reflective moments
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1972, Still Bill was Bill Withers' second studio album, following his successful debut, Just As I Am. At this point in his career, Withers was solidifying his reputation as a soulful storyteller with relatable themes, which would resonate widely with audiences.
Stylistic neighbors: Al Green· Otis Redding· Marvin Gaye