The Supremes – Come See About Me: A Motown Masterpiece of Teenage Yearning
Ah, The Supremes. The very name conjures up images of shimmering gowns, flawless harmonies, and a sound that defined an era. Among their many gems, “Come See About Me” stands out as a quintessential Motown masterpiece, capturing the innocent flirtation and sweet anxieties of young love.
Background
Released in 1964, “Come See About Me” marked a turning point in The Supremes’ career. While earlier hits like “Where Did Our Love Go” explored the heartache of lost love, “Come See About Me” embraced a brighter tone, showcasing the group’s ability to deliver both soulful ballads and upbeat, playful tunes. The song rocketed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying their status as Motown royalty.
Composed by the legendary songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland (Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland), the song’s narrative revolves around a young woman’s desire to reconnect with a seemingly distant love interest. Through playful lyrics and Diana Ross’s soaring vocals, the song portrays a relatable scene: the frustration of unreturned calls, the longing for attention, and the hope that a simple plea can rekindle the spark.
Listen closely to the opening lines:
“Baby, baby, baby, won’t you come see about me
I’ve been calling you all day, baby, on the telephone, can’t you see?
You must be trifling, just don’t want to make me blue
Baby, baby, baby, come see about me, what can I do?”
These opening lines perfectly capture the teenage voice – a mix of exasperation and genuine concern. Diana Ross’s delivery is both playful and pointed, conveying the young woman’s desire for his attention without resorting to overt anger.
The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in Motown production. A driving, syncopated beat lays the foundation, punctuated by upbeat handclaps and a catchy tambourine line. Lush strings and horns fill out the soundscape, creating a vibrant backdrop for the Supremes’ signature harmonies.
Beyond its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “Come See About Me” stands out for its innovative use of recording techniques. One such technique is the fade-in, a relatively new approach at the time, that throws listeners directly into the heart of the young woman’s frustration. This bold move sets the tone for the song’s energy and immediacy.
“Come See About Me” has become an enduring classic, covered by numerous artists across genres. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to capture the universal emotions of teenage love: the thrill of budding romance, the fear of rejection, and the unwavering hope that true love will prevail. The Supremes’ rendition, however, remains the definitive version, a testament to their undeniable talent and the enduring power of Motown music.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- Composed by Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland.
- Released in 1964 on Motown Records as a single from the album “Where Did Our Love Go.”
- Reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.