The Monitors – Say You: A Soulful Yearning for Reassurance
Venture back to the vibrant soul scene of the mid-1960s, a time when powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics reigned supreme. Amongst the rising stars of this era, a group called The Monitors stands out for their poignant and soulful sound.
Their 1965 single, “Say You”, remains a captivating testament to their artistry, capturing the raw vulnerability of yearning for love’s reassurance.
While the exact origin story of The Monitors remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, their impact on the Motown scene is undeniable. Initially a backing group for various artists on the legendary label, they soon found their own voice, crafting songs that resonated with a generation yearning for love and emotional connection.
“Say You” embodies this yearning perfectly. The song’s opening bars set the stage with a melancholic yet hopeful melody, drawing the listener into a world of emotional vulnerability.
The lead vocals, often attributed to either Johnnie Mae Matthews or Claudette Robinson, are imbued with a raw honesty that cuts straight to the heart. The lyrics, penned by Freddie Gorman and Bernice McKinney, paint a vivid picture of a love threatened by uncertainty.
The chorus, the song’s emotional core, delivers a poignant plea:
“Say you love me, just one more time Don’t let doubt cloud your mind Say you love me, hold me near Whisper sweet nothings in my ear”
These lines capture the universal desire for affirmation and reassurance in a relationship. The song transcends the boundaries of time, speaking to anyone who has ever grappled with insecurity or questioned the strength of their love.
The musical arrangement of “Say You” is a masterful blend of classic soul elements. A driving yet understated rhythm section provides the backbone, while a soulful horn section adds accents of emotional intensity.
The background vocals, a hallmark of Motown productions, offer a comforting and harmonious counterpoint to the lead singer’s passionate plea.
Despite not reaching the top of the Billboard charts, “Say You” has garnered a cult following among soul music aficionados. Its raw emotion and timeless message continue to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place as a hidden gem of the Motown era.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
(Say you)
Who do you belong to?
(Say you)
I’ve been longing to meet youBaby (baby)
You caught my eye, I can’t deny
I realized it’s you
I like what I see, your pleasant to me
Fast and fancy(Say you)
Oooh
(Say you)I don’t want to be friends, let my heart cave in
Watching you play around (play around)
‘Cause this would make me mad, hurt so bad
Soon it would drag me downSay you (say you)
(Say you)There’s none quite as fair as you
(Let’s make plans for two)
And oh yeah