Introduction to “Up the Ladder to the Roof” by The Supremes
The Supremes, a trio of Detroit-born singers, emerged as one of the most iconic girl groups in the history of popular music. Their harmonious blend of voices, coupled with their sophisticated style, captivated audiences worldwide.
Background
Released in 1967 as the lead single from their album “The Supremes Sing Holland,” “Up the Ladder to the Roof” marked a departure from their earlier Motown sound. The song’s arrangement, featuring a lush orchestral backdrop and a driving rhythm, reflected the group’s growing maturity and their desire to experiment with new musical styles.
The lyrics, penned by Holland-Dozier-Holland, painted a vivid picture of a young couple’s love affair, culminating in a metaphorical ascent to the rooftop, symbolizing their unwavering commitment and passion.
The opening verse sets the scene, establishing a sense of anticipation and longing: “When the day is done, and the stars come out to play, I’ll be waiting on the corner, hoping you’ll come my way.” Diana Ross, the lead singer of The Supremes, delivers these lines with a tender vulnerability, capturing the emotional intensity of the moment.
The chorus, with its infectious melody and soaring vocals, serves as the emotional centerpiece of the song: “Up the ladder to the roof, we’ll climb so high above, where we can see the world, and feel the love.” The imagery of climbing the ladder to the roof evokes a sense of freedom and escape, as if the couple is transcending the ordinary and reaching for something extraordinary.
The bridge of the song introduces a more introspective tone, as Ross reflects on the challenges and uncertainties of love: “Sometimes I wonder if we’ll make it through, but I’m holding on so tight, to the love that’s true.”
This moment of vulnerability adds depth and complexity to the song, reminding us that even the most passionate love relationships are not without their trials and tribulations.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Come with meAnd we shall run across the skyAnd illuminate the nightOh, oh, oh, I will try and guide youTo better times and brighter daysDon’t be afraidGo up the ladder to the roofWhere we can see heaven much betterGo up the ladder to the roofWhere we can be (where we can be, where we can be)Closer to heaven (to heaven, stay)Stay with meAnd we shall let expressions sing(Please bring our virtues with us)Can’t you hear ’em ringing? (Ringing)Oh-oh-ohMemories of yesterdaysYesterday’s broken dreamsDon’t you know they’ll all fade awayIf you’ll comeUp the ladder to the roofWhere we can see heaven much betterCome up the ladder to the roofWhere we can be (where we can be)Oh, closer to heavenWe’ll laugh and I’ll tell you the story of loveHow it is, and the happiness in it babyWe’ll combine our thoughtsAnd together we’ll travel the roadsTo the fountain of lovelinessI will never, ever, ever leave youLeave you alone to wonderAs we go on our love, it will grow (it will grow)Much stronger strongerDon’t you wanna goUp the ladder to the roofWhere we can see heaven much betterGo up the ladder to the roofWhere we can be closer to heavenAh, up the (up the)Ooh-ooh, up the (up the)Oh, come on and walk (walk)Come on and talk (talk)Come and sing about love and understandingOoh-ooh-oohUp the ladder to the roofOoh-ooh-oohSee heaven much better