About the song
“Handy Man,” a classic song written by Jimmy Jones and Otis Blackwell, has enjoyed a remarkable journey through music history since its inception. Originally recorded by The Sparks Of Rhythm, the song’s early version was in a minor key with a different melody than the widely recognized one. It was Jimmy Jones’ own rendition, released in 1959, that transformed the song with a major key and a new melody, showcasing his signature vocal style and the catchy “Come-a, come-a come-a come-a, come come-a, yeah” refrain. This reworked version was produced by Otis Blackwell, who also contributed memorable whistling throughout the track.
Jones’ 1959 release of “Handy Man” became a major hit, reaching No. 3 on the R&B charts and No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1960. It achieved significant commercial success, selling over a million copies and solidifying Jones’ place in the music industry. This initial success was followed by a resurgence of the song’s popularity with cover versions by Del Shannon in 1964, and notably, James Taylor’s rendition in 1977.
James Taylor’s cover of “Handy Man” further elevated the song’s legacy. His version reached No. 1 on the RPM Top Singles chart in Canada and No. 2 on the Cash Box Top 100, while also hitting No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Taylor’s rendition, known for its laid-back, mellow vibe, was praised for its smooth arrangement and thoughtful interpretation. Taylor’s version featured prominent background vocals by Leah Kunkel and a refined instrumental arrangement that included Danny Kortchmar on electric guitar and Russell Kunkel on drums. The 1977 recording won Taylor a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, further cementing the song’s place in pop culture.
Critics have noted the contrast between Jones’ original and Taylor’s version, with AllMusic critic Jason Elias describing Taylor’s rendition as “laid back” compared to the more energetic and somewhat “obnoxious” original. Billboard highlighted Taylor’s version for its “fluidly soft” quality and tasteful arrangement, while Cash Box and Record World praised the transformation from the original’s frenetic pace to a more considered ballad.
“Handy Man” has left a lasting impact on music, with its infectious melody and memorable lyrics continuing to resonate with audiences. The song’s influence extends into other genres and eras, even being noted for similarities in Culture Club’s 1983 hit “Karma Chameleon,” though Boy George denied any deliberate plagiarism. Overall, “Handy Man” stands as a testament to the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to be reinterpreted across different musical landscapes.
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Lyrics
Hey girls, gather round
Listen to what I’m puttin’ down
Hey, baby, I’m your handy man
I’m not the kind that uses pencil or rule
I’m handy with the love and I’m no fool
I fix broken hearts, I know I truly can
If your broken heart, she needs repair
Then I’m the man to see, I whisper sweet things
You tell all your friends, they’ll come running to me
Here is the main thing I want to say
I’m busy twenty four hours a day
I fix broken hearts, I know that I truly can
Come, come, come, come, come, come, come
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Come, come, come, come, come, come, come, oh now
They’ll come runnin’ to me
Here is the main thing I want to say
I’m busy twenty four hours a day
I fix broken hearts, baby I’m your handy man
Come, come, come, come, come, come, come
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Come, come, come, come, come, come, come
Yeah, yeah, yeah
That’s me
(Come, come, come, come, come, come)
I’m your handy man
(Yeah, yeah, yeah)
That’s me
(Come, come, come, come, come, come)
I’m your handy man
(Yeah, yeah, yeah)