Reach Out I’ll Be There – Four Tops

About the Song

Emerging from the golden age of Motown in 1966, “Reach Out I’ll Be There” by The Four Tops is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a timeless message of empathy and unwavering support, a soulful ballad that offers a comforting hand to those facing loneliness and despair.

Four Tops, a legendary vocal quartet known for their smooth harmonies and powerful delivery, breathe life into this message of hope. Levi Stubbs, the group’s lead vocalist, imbues the song with a sincerity that resonates deeply. Right from the opening lines, “I can tell by the way you hang your head / You, I love now, now you’re afraid,” the song acknowledges the listener’s pain and vulnerability.

The lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling with loneliness and a sense of isolation. Lines like, “There’s no piece of mind to be found” and “You’re alone now, no love of your own,” capture the depths of despair. However, the song doesn’t dwell on the darkness. It offers a powerful counterpoint in the chorus: “Darling, come on girl, reach out for me / Reach out, just look over your shoulder / I’ll be there to give you all the love you need / And I’ll be there, you can always depend on me.”

“Reach Out I’ll Be There” isn’t just about romantic love; it’s about the universal human need for connection and support. The song extends a lifeline to anyone feeling lost or alone, assuring them that they are not forgotten and that help is readily available. The repeated refrain, “I’ll be there,” serves as a constant source of encouragement, a reminder that we don’t have to face our struggles in isolation.

The enduring legacy of “Reach Out I’ll Be There” lies in its timeless message of hope and compassion. The song’s soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with listeners across generations, offering a comforting embrace to anyone in need. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, a helping hand is often just a reach away.

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Lyrics: “Reach Out (I’ll Be There)”

Now if you feel that you can’t go on
Because all of your hope is gone
And your life is filled with much confusion
Until happiness is just an illusion
And your world around is crumblin’ downDarling, reach out
Come on girl, reach out for meI’ll be there, with a love that will shelter you
I’ll be there, with a love that will see you through

When you feel lost and about to give up
When your best just ain’t good enough
And you feel the world has grown cold
And you’re drifting out all on your own
And you need a hand to hold

Darling, reach out
Oh, reach out for me

I’ll be there, to love and comfort you
And I’ll be there, to cherish and care for you
I’ll be there, with a love that will see you through
I’ll be there, to love and comfort you

I can tell the way you hang your head
You’re without love and now you’re afraid
And through your tears you look around
But there’s no peace of mind to be found
I know what you’re thinkin’ babe, no love of your own

But darling, reach out
Darling, reach out for me

I’ll be there, to give you all the love you need
I’ll be there, you can always depend on me
I’ll be there, to give you all the love you need
I’ll be there, you can always depend on me

I’ll be there
I’ll be there
I’ll be there
Love that will shelter you
(Love that will shelter you)
I’ll, I’ll be there
I’ll, I’ll be there
I’ll, I’ll be there