Recorded - January 5, 7, and 11, 1965.
Released - February 8, 1965
#1 for weeks of March 27 and April 3, 1965.
It's amazing just how many number ones The Supremes have had, even in 1965. Motown records by now was not just exclusively for the R&B market. With The Temptations and The Supremes charting big on the pop charts, Berry Gordy Jr's label was a goldmine. "Stop! In The Name Of Love" is The Supremes' fourth #1, and once again, it 1-up's their previous hits.
Written yet again by the solid songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland, there is a natural sense of continuity and sonic similarities between all of their past compositions given to The Supremes. Lyrically, the song deals with the singer wanting her lover to not cheat, and to preserve their relationship/marriage. With relatable lyrics, tons of vocal hooks, and a recognizable singing trio as the artists, the song was an easy hit.
Musically, there is actually quite a bit happening. We have a rich blend of brass, organ, and numerous pianos, which create almost a Wall Of Sound feel. Of course, this is Motown, so all of this fine musicianship is done by The Funk Brothers. Vocally, this tops "Come See About Me" by far. You not only have a great vocal performance by Diana Ross, there's an equally strong backing by Flo and Mary. Certainly a long way from "Where Did Our Love Go", where the backing duo were barely spotlighted.
There's not much else to add as The Supremes had plenty more #1's, including one more before 1965 was over. So you can expect to hear me talk about them rather soon.
Final Verdict - The best vocal effort yet by The Supremes. "Stop! In The Name Of Love" is rich with hooks, and a solid musical backdrop. It certainly gets my seal of approval.
Coming Up Next - "I'm Telling You Now" by Freddie And The Dreamers.
Until Next Time - Stop! in the name of Dr. Rock -
No comments:
Post a Comment