The Jackson 5 – Got to Be There: A Smooth Transition into Solo Stardom
The Jackson 5, a name synonymous with infectious rhythms and electrifying stage presence, dominated the music scene in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Within this powerhouse group, a young Michael Jackson began to emerge, captivating audiences with his precocious talent and soulful vocals.
“Got to Be There”, released in 1972, marked a pivotal moment in Jackson’s career, serving as the title track for his debut solo album and foreshadowing his future trajectory as the “King of Pop.”
Background
Breaking away from the energetic, Motown-infused sound of The Jackson 5, “Got to Be There” showcased a more introspective and sentimental side of Michael. The song, penned by Elliot Willensky, explores themes of universal longing and desire for connection.
The lyrics paint a picture of a young man yearning for someone special, a sentiment that resonated deeply with teenagers navigating the complexities of love and belonging.
The melody, a departure from the group’s signature upbeat style, is a gentle ballad with a touch of disco flair. Lush orchestration and a driving bassline provide a sophisticated backdrop for Michael’s emotive vocals.
He delivers the song with a maturity beyond his years, his voice imbued with a vulnerability and tenderness that captivated audiences.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Got to be there (got to be there)Got to be there in the morningWhen she says hello to the world
Got to be there (got to be there)Got to be there in her down timeAnd show her that she´s my girlOoo what a feeling there´ll beThe moment I know she loves meCause when I look in her eyes I realizeI need her sharing the world beside me
So I got to be there (got to be there)Got to be there in the morningAnd welcome her into my worldAnd show her that she´s my girlWhen she says hello world (got to be there) (got to be there)
I need her sharing the world beside me
That´s why I got to be there (got to be there)Got to be there where it all beginsAnd that´s everywhere she goesI got to be there so she knowsThat when she´s with meShes home (ooo shes home) (ooo shes home) yea
got to be there, got to be there(Got to be there) got to be there, got to be there(Got to be there) ooh baby, baby, got to be there, got to be there(Got to be there) got to be there, got to be there(Got to be there) ooh, got to be there, got to be there(Got to be there) ooh, got to be there, got to be there