Wonder recorded the song and released his version as a single from his 1971 album Where I'm Coming From.

[2] The song was one of the last to feature Motown's background band the Funk Brothers.

After its release, Wonder left the Hitsville USA studios to record in New York City, playing most of the instruments himself.

Wonder played Moog bass synthesizer,[citation needed] drums, and piano on "If You Really Love Me", while Wright is featured in the background singing.

Cash Box said of it that "Wonder, via superb use of dynamics and fine mood changes will bring this tune to national attention.