Love and Happiness is a soul and R&B ballad by Al Green, co-written with guitarist Mabon “Teenie” Hodges. It first appeared on Green’s 1972 album I’m Still in Love with You, and was released as a single in the UK in 1973 and in the US in 1977. The track, produced by Willie Mitchell, is famous for its intense groove and the story of how the tempo was locked in during the recording, with Teenie Hodges counting off the timing with a foot on a Coke crate. Lyrically it preaches fidelity and the idea that happiness comes from really feeling good with the right partner. Though Green’s personal life drew attention in that era, the song is often hailed as one of his quintessential works and remains influential, ranking #98 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and frequently covered by artists such as Etta James and Al Jarreau.
