1975’s “Feel Like Makin’ Love” had its origins quite a few years earlier–in 1968, to be exact–when lead singer Paul Rodgers was 19 years old and touring with the group Free (of “All Right Now” fame).

Paul came up with the lyrics and the basic instrumental outline, but then shelved it until Bad Company was putting together their “Straight Shooter” album in 1974.

He played the song for group guitarist Mick Ralphs, who added the power chords and some other flourishes from a song HE had been working on, that took the country-flavored melody and transformed it in to a rock power ballad in the chorus. Drummer Simon Kirke added a few flourishes of his own.

According to Mick, the melody appealed to the ladies, but the chorus was “bloody macho,” and that’s a (Pretty accurate assessment!

When “Feel Like Makin’ Love” was released as a single in 975, it climbed to #2 in New Zealand, #5 in Canada, and #10 in here the US.

Over the years, the song has been featured in TV shows, including Malcolm in the Middle,” “The Simpsons,” “King of the Hill,” and “Criminal Minds,” as well as films like “G.I. Jane.”

“Feel Like Makin’ Love” feels like a “Great Song of 1975!”

— Mike Cook