“I Feel for You” is a groundbreaking R&B, funk, and hip-hop-infused song by Chaka Khan, released in October 1984 with “Chinatown” on the B-side as the lead single from her album of the same name. Originally written and recorded by Prince in 1979 for his Prince album, Chaka Khan’s version transformed the song into a genre-blending hit, becoming one of her most iconic tracks.
Khan’s rendition of I Feel for You is notable for its innovative production, featuring a rap intro by Melle Mel of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, a funky synth-heavy beat, and a signature harmonica riff performed by Stevie Wonder. This fusion of R&B, pop, hip-hop, and electronic elements was ahead of its time, making it one of the earliest examples of hip-hop influencing mainstream pop and R&B music.
The song was a massive commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 1 on the R&B and Dance charts, and No. 1 in the UK, making it one of the biggest hits of Khan’s career.
The song won two Grammy Awards – for Best R&B Song and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.