Sam Cooke was a singer and songwriter known for his smooth voice and heartfelt songs. He was born in 1931 in Mississippi.
He became famous in the 1950s and 1960s with hits like “You Send Me” and “A Change Is Gonna Come.” His music mixed soul, gospel, and pop.
Apart from that, he also stood up for civil rights. Though his life was short, his music and message continue to inspire people around the world.
About the Song
Wonderful World is a sweet and simple love song that talks about how school subjects don’t matter much when you’re in love.
With its soft melody and honest lyrics, the song became a timeless classic that makes listeners smile and think about young love.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | April 14, 1960 |
| Album | The Man Who Invented Soul (2000) |
| Writers | Sam Cooke, Lou Adler & Herb Alpert |
| Producer | Sam Cooke |
Complete Lyrics of Wonderful World
Pre-Chorus
Don’t know much about history
Don’t know much biology
Don’t know much about a science book
Don’t know much about the French I took
Chorus
But I do know that I love you
And I know that if you love me too
What a wonderful world this would be
Pre-Chorus
Don’t know much about geography
Don’t know much trigonometry
Don’t know much about algebra
Don’t know what a slide rule is for
Chorus
But I do know one and one is two
And if this one could be with you
What a wonderful world this would be
Verse
Now, I don’t claim to be an A student
But I’m trying to be
For, maybe, by being an A student, baby
I can win your love for me
Pre-Chorus
Don’t know much about history
Don’t know much biology
Don’t know much about a science book
Don’t know much about the French I took
Chorus
But I do know that I love you
And I know that if you love me too
What a wonderful world this would be
Bridge
La-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta (History)
Hm (Biology)
Wa-la-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta (Science book)
Hm (French I took), yeah
Chorus
But I do know that I love you
And I know that if you love me too
What a wonderful world this would be
Similar Songs Like Wonderful World
If you love the heartfelt charm of What a Wonderful World, these timeless tracks offer the same warmth, soul, and emotional richness:
- You Send Me: This song is celebrated for its tender lyrics and smooth melody. This romantic hit remains one of Sam Cooke’s most beloved classics.
- Cupid: It’s a catchy and heartfelt track that highlights Cooke’s smooth vocals and a plea for love guided by Cupid’s arrow.
- Chain Gang: Driven by rhythm and story, this song paints a picture of prison life through Cooke’s voice and beat.
- Bring It on Home to Me: This soulful song seamlessly blends heartfelt lyrics with powerful vocals that convey a profound longing and love.
Similar Artists Like Sam Cooke
These legendary soul artists captured hearts with powerful vocals, meaningful lyrics, and a lasting impact on music around the world:
- Otis Redding
Genre: Soul, Rhythm and Blues
Top Albums: Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul, The Dock of the Bay - Al Green
Genre: Soul, R&B, Gospel
Top Albums: Let’s Stay Together, I’m Still in Love with You - Wilson Pickett
Genre: Soul, R&B
Top Albums: The Exciting Wilson Pickett, In the Midnight Hour - Jackie Wilson
Genre: Soul, R&B, Pop
Top Albums: Lonely Teardrops, Higher and Higher
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Wonderful World Perform on the Charts?
It reached #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #2 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart in 1960.
Was Wonderful World a Hit Immediately After Release?
Yes, it quickly became one of Sam Cooke’s most successful singles since You Send Me.
Did Sam Cooke Perform Wonderful World Live?
There is no known footage of Sam Cooke performing the song live.
