About the Song
Ah, “Baby Love” by The Supremes. This infectious 1964 tune isn’t just a slice of sugary sweet pop – it’s a landmark song that marked a turning point for Motown Records and launched The Supremes into superstardom.
A Turning Point for Motown:
Composed by the legendary Holland-Dozier-Holland team, “Baby Love” was a departure from the group’s earlier, more subdued sound. With its driving beat, playful call-and-response vocals, and Diana Ross’s signature sass, the song exuded youthful exuberance and a yearning for love. This shift in sound perfectly captured the burgeoning energy of the Motown era, a sound that would soon dominate the airwaves.
More Than Just a Love Song:
While the lyrics of “Baby Love” might seem like a straightforward plea for affection, the song delves deeper. The singers plead with their “baby love” not to throw their love away, hinting at a fragile relationship that needs nurturing. This vulnerability adds a layer of complexity to the song and allows listeners to connect with the emotional core.
Supremacy for The Supremes:
“Baby Love” was a game-changer for The Supremes. It became their first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, kicking off a string of chart-topping successes that would solidify their place as Motown royalty. Their polished vocals and captivating stage presence, showcased in the song’s iconic “woo-hoo” backing vocals, redefined girl group pop and inspired countless future artists.
A Legacy of Sweetness and Soul:
“Baby Love” remains a cornerstone of The Supremes’ legacy. It’s a song that perfectly encapsulates the youthful energy and infectious melodies of the Motown era. More than just a love song, it showcases the group’s undeniable talent and their role in pioneering a new sound that continues to influence music today. So, crank up the volume and let yourself be swept away by the sweet soul of “Baby Love” – a song that not only ignited Motown mania but also cemented The Supremes’ place in pop music history.
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Lyrics: “Baby Love”
Ooh baby love, my baby love
I need you, oh how I need you
But all you do is treat me bad
Break my heart and leave me sad
Tell me, what did I do wrong
To make you stay away so long’Cause baby love, my baby love
Been missing ya, miss kissing ya
Instead of breaking up
Let’s do some kissing and making up
Don’t throw our love away
In my arms, why don’t you stay?Need ya, need ya
Baby love, ooh, baby loveBaby love, my baby love
Why must we seperate, my love
All of my whole life through
I never loved no one but you
Why you do me like you do?
I get this needOoh, ooh, need to hold you
Once again, my love
Feel your warm embrace, my love
Don’t throw our love away
Please don’t do me this way
Not happy like I used to be
Loneliness has got the best of meMy love, my baby love
I need you, oh how I need you
Why you do me like you do
After I’ve been true to you
So deep in love with youBaby, baby, ooh till it’s hurtin’ me
Till it’s hurtin’ me
Ooh, baby love
Don’t throw our love away
Don’t throw our love away