Big John Greer (November 21, 1923 – May 12, 1972) was an American rhythm & … Read Full Bio ↴Big John Greer (November 21, 1923 – May 12, 1972) was an American rhythm & blues tenor saxophonist and vocalist, best known for his recordings from 1949 to 1955, which included "Got You On My Mind" and "Bottle It Up And Go."

Born John Marshall Greer in Hot Springs, Arkansas, United States, he was a friend of Henry Glover from childhood, and both attended college at Alabama A&M together. Glover was playing in Lucky Millinder's band when Bull Moose Jackson left the group in 1948; Glover suggested that Greer be chosen as Jackson's replacement. Greer played with Bob Shad and appeared on Millinder's RCA recordings until 1950, when Millinder signed to King Records. Greer stayed with RCA and played with Wynonie Harris and Jackson among others. He sang lead vocals on his biggest hit, 1952's "Got You On My Mind". In 1954 he switched to Groove Records, but did not make much impact on the American record charts there. In October of that year, he released "We Want To See Santa Do The Mambo", a Christmas hit to this day. In 1955, he finally signed with King, but only recorded for them for about a year. Greer also worked with Hal Singer and Bill Doggett.
By 1957, Greer had developed extended troubles with alcoholism, and he moved back to his home town of Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he died in 1972 at age 48.

I'll Never Let You Go
Big John Greer Lyrics

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Hold me, hold me, hold me tight
Love me, love me, love me right
Thrill me, thrill me through and through
Love me baby like I love you

Cos I need you so, In the morning
I need you so, In the evening
I need you so

Well baby, I'll never let you go

Yes baby, baby, I won't fight
I'll be home early every night
I won't ever run around
I'll bring home my paycheck and put in down

Cos I need you so, In the morning
I need you so, In the evening
I need you so
Well baby, I'll never let you go

Don't you want to be my wife
Stay with be the rest your life
Tell me that we'll never part
Tell me baby I want your heart

Cos I need you so, In the morning
I need you so, In the evening
I need you so
Well baby, I'll never let you go

I need you so
I need you so, In the evening

I need you so
Well baby, I'll never let you go

Overall Meaning

In Big John Greer's song "I'll Never Let You Go", he expresses his deep love and commitment to his significant other. The lyrics are straightforward and emphasize the intense emotion he feels towards his partner. He asks to be held, loved, and thrilled; he needs his partner in the morning and evening, and he promises never to let her go. He assures her that he will be a faithful partner and provide for their future together. Greer also explicitly states that he wants to be with his partner forever, seeking her heart and asking her to be his wife.

The song's message is a display of a genuine, passionate, and loving relationship. Greer portrays his affectionate and committed side towards his lover, and the words exude a sense of hope that their lives will be intertwined. The song highlights the willingness to accept someone and love them endlessly. It's a beautiful dedication of a love that is demanding, intense, and everlasting.

I'll Never Let You GoBig John Greer Lyrics

I'll Never Let You Go
Big John Greer Lyrics