Martha Reeves & The Vandellas – Heat Wave: A Soulful Scorcher from the Motown Vault
Ah, Motown. In the heart of this legendary record label, a trio of powerhouse female vocalists blazed a trail: Martha Reeves & The Vandellas. Among their many hits, one song stands out for its ability to capture the sweltering discomfort and simmering emotions of a summer heatwave – the aptly titled “Heat Wave”.
Background
Released in 1963, “Heat Wave” marked a turning point for Martha Reeves & The Vandellas.
While they had already established themselves as rising stars with earlier hits like “Dancing in the Street,” “Heat Wave” showcased their ability to deliver a more nuanced and soulful performance.
The song climbed the charts, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, solidifying their place as Motown royalty.
Martha Reeves’ vocals are the heart and soul of “Heat Wave.” Her powerful voice effortlessly conveys the frustration and longing of the protagonist, drawing the listener into the sweltering atmosphere.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Whenever I’m with himSomething inside starts to burningAnd I’m filled with desireCould it be the devil in meOr is this the way love’s supposed to be?It’s like a heat waveIt’s burning in my heartI can’t keep from burningIt’s tearing me apartWhenever he calls my name so softly and plainRight then, right there, I feel that burning flameHas high blood pressure got a hold on me?Is this the way love’s supposed to be?It’s like a heat waveIt’s burning in my heartI can’t keep from burningIt’s tearing me apartSometimes I stare in spaceTears all over my faceI can’t explain it, don’t understand itI ain’t never felt like this beforeNow this funny feeling has me amazedDon’t know what to do, my head’s in a hazeIt’s like a heat waveeah yeahYeah yeahHa oh yeahYeah yeahYeah yeahOh yeahI feel it burning right here in my heartDon’t you know it’s like a heat wave?Yeah yeahYeah yeahOhDon’t you know it’s like a heat waveBurning right here in my heart?