Four Tops – Something About You: A Motown Soul Classic
In the realm of Motown soul music, the Four Tops stand as a legendary group, their powerful vocals and infectious melodies etching indelible marks on the genre’s landscape. Among their vast repertoire of hits, “Something About You” holds a special place, a soulful ballad that has captivated listeners for generations with its timeless charm and heartfelt lyrics.
Background
Released in 1965 as the third single from their sophomore album, Four Tops’ Second Album, “Something About You” marked a turning point for the group, showcasing their ability to deliver not only uptempo dance anthems but also tender ballads that resonated deeply with listeners. The song reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 9 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart, solidifying its status as a Motown classic.
The song opens with a gentle guitar riff, setting the stage for the group’s signature smooth harmonies. Levi Stubbs’ lead vocals take center stage, his emotive delivery perfectly capturing the essence of the song’s message: the overwhelming power of love and attraction.
The lyrics, penned by Holland-Dozier-Holland, are a masterclass in simplicity and emotional depth. They paint a vivid picture of a man captivated by his lover’s irresistible charm, his every thought and feeling consumed by her presence.
The chorus is particularly memorable, with its repeated refrain of “There’s something about you baby, that makes me want to…” The ellipsis leaves the listener to fill in the blank, adding to the song’s universal appeal and emotional resonance.
See More: Four Tops – Shake Me, Wake Me
“Something About You” is not just a love song; it’s an ode to the intoxicating power of attraction and the transformative force of love. The song’s message is as relevant today as it was when it was first released, capturing the essence of that heady feeling of being smitten and the overwhelming desire to be near the object of one’s affection.
The song’s enduring popularity lies not only in its relatable lyrics and soulful melody but also in the Four Tops’ impeccable delivery. Their vocal harmonies are tight and smooth, perfectly blending their individual voices to create a sound that is both powerful and emotive.
“Something About You” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and Michael Bublé, each adding their own interpretation to the timeless classic. However, the Four Tops’ original version remains the definitive, a testament to their songwriting prowess and their ability to deliver soulful ballads that touch the heart.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Holland-Dozier-Holland, the legendary Motown songwriting trio.
- It was released in 1965 as the third single from the Four Tops’ album Four Tops’ Second Album.
- The song reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 9 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart.
- “Something About You” has been covered by numerous artists, including Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and Michael Bublé.