Album Review: "If You Have Faith" by Billy Gee – A Doo-Wop Gem That’ll Make You Believe
Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into If You Have Faith, the 1961 rock-meets-doo-wop masterpiece from Billy Gee. Released under the Iona label in the USA and Canada (because apparently, one country wasn’t enough for this goodness), this album is like that quirky uncle who shows up unannounced but somehow steals the whole family reunion. Arranged by Mark Reynolds, it’s got charm, soul, and just enough swagger to make you forget you’re listening to something older than your grandma’s cookie recipe.
Now, let’s talk tracks. First up: “King of Hearts.” Oh man, this one hits different. It’s smooth, kinda sassy, and feels like cruising down a boulevard in a convertible with no destination in mind—just vibes. The harmonies are tighter than your jeans after Thanksgiving dinner, and there’s this sneaky little guitar riff that keeps poking its head in like an overexcited puppy. You can’t help but bob your head along to it. Plus, the lyrics? Straight-up confidence booster material. Listening to this track makes me want to strut around my apartment like I own the joint—even though I definitely don’t.
Then there’s the title track, “If You Have Faith.” This tune is straight-up spiritual fuel for your soul, minus the preachy vibe. It’s not trying too hard; it just glides along on a cloud of dreamy vocals and perfectly balanced doo-wop beats. There’s something about how Billy delivers those lines—it’s like he’s whispering secrets directly into your ear while simultaneously serenading the heavens. Honestly, if faith came with a soundtrack, this would be it. And hey, maybe after hearing this song, you’ll start believing you can finally tackle that impossible jigsaw puzzle sitting untouched in your closet.
What makes this album stick? Well, aside from the obvious talent oozing out of every note, it’s refreshingly real. No auto-tune here, folks—just raw voices and instruments doing their thing. Sure, some parts sound a bit rough around the edges, but isn’t that what gives vintage music its character? Like finding a scratch on an old vinyl record and realizing it only adds to the story.
So yeah, If You Have Faith might not have gone platinum or whatever back in ’61, but it’s the kind of hidden treasure that deserves a second look today. Next time you’re feeling nostalgic—or maybe just need a break from TikTok trends—give this baby a spin. Who knows? Maybe Billy Gee will become your new favorite artist…or at least someone cool to name-drop at parties.
And now, my parting thought: If Billy ever decided to drop a remix version of these songs featuring modern artists, I’d pay good money to hear Post Malone try his hand at “King of Hearts.” Just saying.
