Kenny Loggins and Stevie Nicks’ Timeless Duet: “Whenever I Call You ‘Friend'”
In the autumn of 1978, Kenny Loggins released a song that would become one of his most enduring hits, a duet that encapsulates the spirit of friendship and connection. “Whenever I Call You ‘Friend'”, co-written with Melissa Manchester, was featured on Loggins’ album Nightwatch and quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. This single not only solidified Loggins’ place in the music industry but also marked a significant moment in his career as it became his first major solo hit, even though it was performed as a duet with the legendary Stevie Nicks.
The collaboration between Loggins and Nicks is a highlight of the song. While Nicks was credited on the album track, interestingly, her name was absent from the single release, making it a unique situation where a song widely recognized as a duet was officially credited to only one artist. Despite this, Nicks’ contribution is undeniable, her distinctive voice blending effortlessly with Loggins’, creating a harmonious and memorable performance.
The song’s journey to success was not without its challenges. Nicks has shared that working with Loggins in the studio was a demanding experience. She humorously referred to him as “Slave Driver Loggins,” as he pushed her to deliver the perfect performance. Loggins himself admitted to pushing her harder than she was used to, but the result was a performance that felt effortless and joyous, a testament to their professionalism and talent.
“Whenever I Call You ‘Friend'” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of an era, capturing the essence of late 1970s soft rock. The track’s upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics struck a chord with listeners, making it a favorite on radio stations and a staple in Loggins’ live performances. The song’s theme of friendship and its uplifting melody resonated with a wide audience, ensuring its place as a classic in Loggins’ repertoire.
The song’s success wasn’t confined to the United States. In the Netherlands, where it was also popular, a unique performance was arranged for the TV program TopPop. Since Nicks wasn’t available to perform, Dutch singer Kimm Hekker was brought in to stand alongside Loggins. This performance highlighted the song’s universal appeal, as it transcended borders and connected with audiences in different countries.
Interestingly, Melissa Manchester, who co-wrote the song, recorded her own version a year later in 1979, featuring Arnold McCuller. While this version did not achieve the same level of success as Loggins’ and Nicks’ duet, it offered a different interpretation that some critics, like Charles Donovan of AllMusic, found to be more elegant and refined.
Over the years, “Whenever I Call You ‘Friend'” has remained a beloved track, not just for its catchy melody but for the story behind it. It represents a moment in time when two iconic voices came together to create something truly special. For fans of both Loggins and Nicks, the song is a reminder of the magic that can happen when two talented artists collaborate.
Today, as we look back on the song’s release and its impact, it’s clear that “Whenever I Call You ‘Friend'” is more than just a hit single; it’s a timeless piece of music history that continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.