About the song
If there’s one group that truly defined the sound of the 1960s, it’s The Supremes. With their impeccable harmonies and infectious melodies, they captured the hearts of millions and left an enduring legacy in the world of pop music. Among their many hits, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” stands out as a particularly powerful and emotionally resonant track.
Released in 1966, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” was a departure from the more lighthearted and upbeat sound that had characterized many of The Supremes’ earlier hits. This song delves into the darker side of love, exploring themes of obsession, desperation, and the pain of unrequited love. The lyrics, penned by Holland-Dozier-Holland, paint a vivid picture of a woman caught in a tumultuous and one-sided relationship. She pleads with her lover to either fully commit or let her go, expressing her frustration and heartbreak in a raw and honest way.
Musically, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a departure from the group’s earlier material. The song features a driving beat, a distorted guitar riff, and a more urgent vocal performance from Diana Ross. The overall sound is darker and more intense, reflecting the emotional turmoil expressed in the lyrics. The song’s arrangement is also noteworthy, with its use of call-and-response vocals and a building crescendo that culminates in a powerful final chorus.
What makes “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” so compelling is its raw emotion. The Supremes’ vocal harmonies perfectly capture the vulnerability and desperation of the lyrics. Diana Ross’s powerful delivery conveys a sense of longing and heartbreak that is both relatable and unforgettable. The song’s intensity and emotional depth have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike.
Beyond its musical merits, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” also holds significant cultural importance. The song’s exploration of complex and often painful emotions challenged the conventions of popular music at the time. It demonstrated that The Supremes were capable of creating music that was both commercially successful and artistically significant.
In conclusion, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” by The Supremes is a powerful and timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its raw emotion, catchy melody, and innovative arrangement have ensured its place in the music history books. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Supremes or simply appreciate great music, this song is definitely worth a listen.
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Lyrics
Set me free, why don’t cha, baby?
Get out my life, why don’t cha, baby?
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on
You don’t really need me
But you keep me hangin’ on
Why do you keep a-comin’ around?
Playin’ a-with my heart?
Why don’t you get out of my life?
And let me make a new start?
Lettin’ me get over you
The way you’ve gotten over me, hey
Set me free, why don’t cha, babe?
Let me be, why don’t cha, babe? (Oh, oh, oh, oh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on (oh, oh, oh, oh)
Now, you don’t really want me
You just keep me hangin’ on
You say, although we broke up
You still wanna be just friends
But how can we still be friends?
When seein’ you only breaks my heart again?
And there ain’t nothin’ I can do about it
set me free, why don’t cha babe?
(Whoa, whoa, whoa) get out my life, why don’t cha babe?
(Uh) set me free, why don’t cha, babe?
Get out my life, why don’t cha, babe?
You claim you still care for me
But your heart and soul needs to be free
And now that you’ve got your freedom
You wanna still hold on to me
You don’t want me for yourself
So let me find somebody else, hey
Why don’t you be a man about it?
And set me free? (Uh)
Now, you don’t care a thing about me
You’re just usin’ me (uh)
Go on, get out, get out of my life
And let me sleep at night, please (uh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on