The Contours – It Must Be Love

The Contours – It Must Be Love: A Motown Anthem of Enduring Love

In the realm of Motown music, The Contours stand as a seminal group, their infectious energy and soulful harmonies leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Among their illustrious repertoire, “It Must Be Love” reigns supreme, a timeless ballad that captures the essence of enduring love with its heartfelt lyrics and irresistible melody.

Background

Released in 1962, “It Must Be Love” soared to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing The Contours’ status as Motown stars. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to transcend generations and cultures, its message of love resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

The song opens with a captivating guitar riff, immediately setting the stage for the group’s soulful vocals. Bernie Worrell’s lead vocals take center stage, his smooth and emotive delivery perfectly conveying the depth and sincerity of the lyrics.

The lyrics, penned by Motown legend Smokey Robinson, paint a vivid picture of a love so strong that it defies explanation. The opening lines, “When I wake up in the morning, the first thing on my mind/Is if you’re still with me, I’m feeling kind of fine,” capture the essence of a love that has become an integral part of one’s being.

The chorus is an anthem of enduring love, with the group harmonizing on the lines, “It must be love, ’cause it feels so right/It must be love, ’cause it feels so right.” These simple yet powerful words have echoed through the decades, becoming a universal expression of love’s unwavering presence.

The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in Motown simplicity, featuring a driving rhythm section, a catchy horn line, and a tasteful use of strings. This understated approach allows the group’s vocals and the song’s heartfelt message to take center stage.

“It Must Be Love” has garnered critical acclaim for its timeless appeal and its ability to capture the essence of love in its purest form. The song has been praised for its infectious melody, soulful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, making it a true Motown classic.

Beyond its commercial and critical success, “It Must Be Love” has had a profound impact on popular culture. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Mary J. Blige, and its influence on soul and R&B music is undeniable.

“It Must Be Love” remains a cherished favorite among music lovers worldwide, its enduring popularity a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. The song’s message of love, with its simplicity and sincerity, continues to resonate with generations, making it a timeless classic that will undoubtedly continue to touch hearts for years to come.**

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Here are some additional details about the song:

• The song was written by Smokey Robinson.
• It was released in 1962 as a single from The Contours’ album The Contours Do Motown.
• The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Billboard R&B Singles chart.
• “It Must Be Love” has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Mary J. Blige.