Introduction:
In the long and storied career of Johnny Mathis, there exists a catalog so vast and nuanced that even longtime listeners may overlook some of its quieter treasures. One such gem is the contemplative and elegantly understated ballad, “And I Think That’s What I’ll Do.” While not among his most commercially celebrated tracks, this song is a poignant reminder of Mathis’s ability to communicate volumes with a single phrase, a gentle pause, or the softened lift of a melody. For seasoned fans and careful listeners, it is precisely in pieces like this that his artistry shines most brightly.
First appearing on his 1973 album Killing Me Softly with Her Song, “And I Think That’s What I’ll Do” encapsulates the bittersweet tone that Mathis has so often perfected. The lyrics speak to quiet resignation and mature reflection—of a love that perhaps was not meant to last, and a decision to let go not in bitterness, but in peace. The beauty of the track lies in its emotional restraint. Where others might lean into melodrama, Mathis instead chooses grace.
Musically, the arrangement is sparse and sophisticated, allowing his signature tenor voice to glide effortlessly above gentle instrumentation. A soft string section, a tender piano progression, and subtle rhythm work all create a bed over which his voice can soar, but never overpower. Mathis doesn’t so much sing the lyrics as breathe life into them, each line shaped by his impeccable phrasing and interpretative sensitivity.
What is particularly notable about this song is its maturity—not just in its themes, but in its performance. At a time when the music industry was pivoting toward louder, flashier production, Johnny Mathis continued to deliver music that honored the craft of singing and the emotional truth of storytelling. “And I Think That’s What I’ll Do” is a masterclass in subtlety. It’s not a song that demands attention, but one that earns it, quietly and confidently.
For longtime followers of Mathis’s work, revisiting this track offers a reminder of his timelessness. And for those who may know him only through his biggest hits, discovering this piece opens the door to the deeper, more introspective side of his repertoire. In an era where so much of music is fleeting, disposable even, this song remains—a quiet, persistent echo of dignity, heartache, and the kind of beauty that only grows more profound with time.
Indeed, if you’re looking for a song that reveals just how powerful a whisper can be, “And I Think That’s What I’ll Do” is a perfect place to begin.