The Four Tops – River Deep, Mountain High (with The Supremes)

Introduction to “River Deep, Mountain High” by The Four Tops and The Supremes

The Four Tops and The Supremes, two iconic groups of the Motown era, joined forces to create one of the most celebrated and influential songs in music history. “River Deep, Mountain High”, released in 1967, is a masterpiece of soul and pop music, showcasing the incredible vocal talents of both groups and the innovative production of Phil Spector.

The song’s title, “River Deep, Mountain High,” is a metaphor for the overwhelming depth of love and passion expressed by the singers. The lyrics, penned by Spector and Jeff Barry, delve into themes of devotion, longing, and the intensity of romantic emotions. The singers’ voices soar with emotion, capturing the raw intensity of love in a way that resonates with listeners.

Phil Spector’s production of “River Deep, Mountain High” is legendary. His signature “wall of sound” approach, characterized by layered instruments and dense harmonies, creates a lush and immersive soundscape. Spector’s meticulous attention to detail and innovative techniques resulted in a production that is both groundbreaking and timeless.

The Four Tops and The Supremes deliver exceptional vocal performances on “River Deep, Mountain High.” The harmonies between the two groups are seamless, and the lead singers, Levi Stubbs and Diana Ross, showcase their powerful and expressive voices. Their chemistry on the song is palpable, creating a sense of intimacy and passion.

Despite its critical acclaim, “River Deep, Mountain High” did not achieve immediate commercial success upon its release. However, it has since become a beloved classic, recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time.

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Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

… When I was a little girl, I had a rag doll
Only doll I’ve ever owned
Well, I love you just the way I loved that rag doll
Only now my love has grown

… And it gets stronger (stronger) in every way
And it gets deeper (deeper), let me say
And it gets higher (higher), day by day, oh-oh

… Do I love you? My, oh, my (ooh, baby)
River deep, mountain high (yeah, yeah, yeah)
If I lost you, would I cry? (Oh-ho)
Oh, how I love you, baby, baby, baby

… When you were a young girl, did you have a puppy
That always followed you around?
Well, I’m gonna be as faithful as that puppy
You know I’ll never let you down

… ‘Cause it goes on and on (on and on) like the river flows
And it gets deeper, baby (deeper), Heaven knows
And it gets sweeter, baby (sweeter), as it flows

… If I lost you, would I cry?
Oh, how I love you, baby (oh, I love you, baby)
Baby, baby

… I love you, baby
The mountain so high (and river deep)
Whoo, oh, baby, baby
I love you, baby (I bet you do), whoo
I love you, baby (do you love me?)
Yes, I do? Oh-oh