I’ll Be There – Jackson 5

About the Song

Stepping away from the high-energy dance tracks, let’s explore a more tender side of the Jackson 5 with their soulful ballad “I’ll Be There”. Released in 1970, amidst a string of chart-topping hits, “I’ll Be There” showcases the group’s versatility and emotional depth.

“I’ll Be There” is a heartfelt promise of devotion and unwavering support. The song opens with a powerful declaration of unity: “You and I must make a pact, we must bring salvation back.” This sets the stage for a message of unwavering loyalty and unwavering love. The lyrics, penned by the songwriting team known as “The Corporation” (Berry Gordy Jr., Freddie Perren, Alphonso Mizell, Deke Richards), speak to the importance of being there for your loved one through thick and thin, offering comfort and joy.

Musically, “I’ll Be There” strikes a beautiful balance between tenderness and power. The gentle strum of an acoustic guitar lays the foundation, while soaring strings and soulful backing vocals add an element of grandeur. However, the spotlight remains firmly on Michael Jackson’s vocals. Here, he sheds the youthful exuberance of their previous hits and delivers a performance brimming with sincerity and emotional depth. His voice effortlessly glides through the melody, conveying a depth of emotion that belied his young age.

“I’ll Be There” resonated deeply with listeners. It became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing the Jackson 5’s ability to not only deliver infectious dance tunes but also connect with audiences on a more emotional level. The song’s message of unwavering love and support continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in the Jackson 5’s impressive repertoire.

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Lyrics: “I’ll Be There”

You and I must make a pact
We must bring salvation back
Where there is love, I’ll be there (I’ll be there)
I’ll reach out my hand to you
I’ll have faith in all you do
Just call my name and I’ll be there (I’ll be there)

And oh, I’ll be there to comfort you
Build my world of dreams around you, I’m so glad that I found you
I’ll be there with a love that’s strong
I’ll be your strength, I’ll keep holding on
(Holding on, holding on, holding on) Yes, I will. Yes, I will

Let me fill your heart with joy and laughter
Togetherness, girl, is all I’m after
Whenever you need me, I’ll be there (I’ll be there)
I’ll be there to protect you (Yeah, baby)
With an unselfish love that respects you
Just call my name and I’ll be there (I’ll be there)

And oh, I’ll be there to comfort you
Build my world of dreams around you, I’m so glad that I found you
I’ll be there with a love that’s strong
I’ll be your strength, I’ll keep holding on
Hoo-hoo (Holding on, holding on, holding on) Yes, I will. Yes, I will

If you should ever find someone new
I know he better be good to you
‘Cause if he doesn’t, I’ll be there (I’ll be there)

Don’t you know, baby, yeah, yeah
I’ll be there, I’ll be there
Just call my name (I’ll be there), I’ll be there
Just look over your shoulders, honey! Ooh
I’ll be there, I’ll be there
Whenever you need me (I’ll be there), I’ll be there

Don’t you know, baby, yeah, yeah
I’ll be there, I’ll be there
Just call my name (I’ll be there), I’ll be there
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh
I’ll be there, I’ll be there