About the Song
Absolutely! Let’s delve into the infectiously soulful “The Love You Save” by the legendary Jackson 5. Released in 1970, this song wasn’t just another hit for the group – it became a cultural phenomenon. It cemented their place as teen idols and showcased their signature blend of youthful energy and musical sophistication.
“The Love You Save” perfectly embodies 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 relatable message. The lyrics, penned by Motown’s songwriting team “The Corporation” (Berry Gordy Jr., Freddie Perren, Alphonso Mizell, Deke Richards), tell the story of a young man pleading for a second chance after letting his love slip away.
While delivered with the innocent charm of the Jackson 5, the song’s message resonates with anyone who’s ever experienced regret and the desire to win back a lost love. “The Love You Save” transcends the typical teenage heartbreak narrative – it’s a testament to the power of forgiveness and the importance of cherishing what you have before it’s gone.
Musically, the song is a masterpiece. Michael Jackson’s vocals, then just a teenager’s, take center stage. His soulful delivery and playful ad-libs showcase a maturity beyond his years. The tight harmonies provided by his brothers, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon, add another layer of richness to the sound.
The impact of “The Love You Save” cannot be overstated. It became the Jackson 5’s third consecutive No. 1 hit, solidifying their dominance on the pop charts. The song’s infectious energy and timeless message have inspired countless artists and continue to resonate with listeners across generations. So, crank up the volume and let yourself be swept away by the irresistible groove of “The Love You Save” – a classic that never fails to put a smile on your face.
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Lyrics: “The Love You Save”
Stop! Na, na, na! You’d better save it
Stop, stop, stop, you’d better save itWhen we played tag in grade school
You wanted to be it
But chasing boys was just a fad
You crossed your heart you’d quitWhen we grew up, you traded
Your promise for my ring
Now, just like back to grade school
You’re doing the same old thingStop! The love you save may be your own
Darling, take it slow
Or someday, you’ll be all alone
You’d better stop! The love you save may be your own
Darling, look both ways before you cross me
You’re headed for a danger zoneI’m the one who loves you
I’m the one you need
Those other guys will put you down
As soon as they succeedThey’ll ruin your reputation
They’ll label you a flirt
The way they talk about you
They’ll turn your name to dirt
OhIsaac said he kissed you
Beneath the apple tree
When Benji held your hand he felt
ElectricityWhen Alexander called you
He said he rang your chime
Christopher discovered
You’re way ahead of your timeStop! The love you save may be your own
Darling, take it slow
Or someday, you’ll be all alone
You’d better stop! The love you save may be your own
Darling, look both ways before you cross me
You’re headed for a danger zoneSlow down
Slow down
Slow down
Slow downS is for “Save it”
T is for “Take it slow”
O is for “Oh, no!”
P is for “Please, please, don’t go!”The love you save may be your own
Some day, you may be all alone
Stop it
Save it, girl
Baby! OohYou’d better stop! The love you save may be your own
Please, please
Or someday, someday, baby, you’ll be all aloneI’m the one who loves you
I’m the one you need
Those other guys will put you down as soon as they succeedStop! The love you save may be your own, baby
You’d better stop it, stop it, stop it, girl
Or someday, you’ll be all aloneThe way they talk about you
They’ll turn your name, turn your name to dirt
Stop! The love you save may be your own!
Don’t you know? Don’t you know?
Someday, baby, you’ll be all aloneWait a while
Those other guys will put you down as soon as they succeed