I Want You Back – Jackson 5

About the Song

Absolutely! Let’s delve into the infectious groove of “I Want You Back” by the legendary Jackson 5. Released in 1969, this song wasn’t just the Jackson 5’s debut single for Motown Records, it became a cultural phenomenon, catapulting the young group – led by the unforgettable vocals of a teenage Michael Jackson – to instant superstardom.

“I Want You Back” perfectly encapsulates the essence of classic Motown. The upbeat tempo, driven by a tight rhythm section and punctuated by crisp horns, is guaranteed to get your feet tapping. But beneath the shiny exterior lies a surprisingly complex story. The lyrics, penned by Motown’s songwriting team “The Corporation,” tell the tale of a lovestruck young man pleading for a second chance after letting his girl go. While delivered with the innocent charm of the Jackson 5, the song’s message resonates with anyone who’s ever experienced the pangs of regret and the desperate desire to win back a lost love.

However, “I Want You Back” transcends the typical teenage heartbreak narrative. It’s a testament to the power of youthful exuberance and the Jackson 5’s undeniable musical talent. Michael’s crystal-clear vocals soar effortlessly above the polished production, showcasing a vocal maturity that belied his young age. The tight harmonies provided by his brothers, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon, add another layer of richness to the sound.

The impact of “I Want You Back” cannot be overstated. It became the first of four consecutive No. 1 hits for the Jackson 5, ushering in a new era of teen idols and forever changing the landscape of pop music. The song’s influence can be heard across decades and genres, inspiring countless artists and solidifying its place as a timeless classic. So, put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and prepare to be swept away by the irresistible charm of “I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5.

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Lyrics: “I Want You Back”

Uh-huh huh huh huh
Let me tell ya now
Uh-huh

When I had you to myself, I didn’t want you around
Those pretty faces always made you stand out in a crowd
But someone picked you from the bunch, one glance was all it took
Now, it’s much too late for me to take a second look

Oh, baby, give me one more chance (To show you that I love you)
Won’t you please let me (Back in your heart)
Oh, darling, I was blind to let you go (Let you go, baby)
But now, since I see you in his arms (I want you back)

Yes, I do now (I want you back)
Ooh, ooh, baby (I want you back)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah (I want you back)
Na, na, na, na

Trying to live without your love is one long sleepless night
Let me show you, girl, that I know wrong from right
Every street you walk on, I leave tear stains on the ground
Following the girl, I didn’t even want around
Let me tell you now

Oh, baby, all I need is one more chance (To show you that I love you)
Won’t you please let me (Back in your heart)
Oh, darling, I was blind to let you go (Let you go, baby)
But now, since I see you in his arms, uh-huh

A buh buh buh buh
A buh buh buh buh, all I want
A buh buh buh buh, all I need
A buh buh buh buh, all I want
A buh buh buh buh, all I need

Oh, just one more chance
To show you that I love you
Baby! Baby!
Baby! Baby!
Baby! Baby!
I want you back

Forget what happened then
I want you back

Let me live again

Oh, baby, I was blind to let you go
But now, since I see you in his arms
I want you back

Spare me of this ’cause

Give me back what I lost

Oh, baby, I need one more chance, ha
I tell ya that I love you
(Baby!) Oh! (Baby!) Oh! (Baby!) Oh!
I want you back!

Forget what happened then

I want you back!

And let me live again

Oh, I want you back! Ha!