Song #240 - "The Love You Save" - The Jackson Five

Recorded - March 1970

Released - May 8, 1970

#1 for weeks of June 27 and July 4, 1970. 

     In an echo of the massive chart success of The Supremes during 1964, The Jackson Five managed to repeat the former's success throughout 1970. In less than six months, the quintet scored a whopping three #1 singles. The third of these, "The Love You Save", continues the themes of "I Want You Back" and "ABC": Love, heartbreak, and optimism, all set to a catchy and upbeat melody. 

     Speaking of The Supremes, it's hard not to draw parallels between the success of the former and The Jackson Five. Both were strictly vocal groups, and always relied on Motown-based songwriters for their hits. As a result, there is a level of consistency between The Jackson Five's best known songs. If you love "I Want You Back", you'll certainly enjoy their third consecutive #1 hit, "The Love You Save". 

     I actually consider "The Love You Save" to be a step forward in terms of the overall sound of the Jackson Five. The song is significantly faster and has a set-groove which has elements of funk music. There are also some nice staccato guitars and a very tight drum part, which propel the song's groove along. 

     Vocally, Michael Jackson is still the star of the show. However, the other four Jackson Five members provide a strong backing, and occasional Jermaine Jackson adds a contrasting and more mature sounding lead vocal. I'd even go as far as to say the bass vocalizations during the first pre-verse of the song hearken back to the days of Doo-wop. 

     If I had to nitpick, I'd say that "The Love You Save" lacks a strong hook. The melody and vocals are superb, but the song overall isn't as memorable as its previous two predecessors. Sometimes, maturation doesn't cross over into longevity. Out of the four consecutive Jackson Five singles which reached #1, I'd probably rank this one as the least successful. (You'll hear my thoughts about the final hit soon!)

Final Verdict - "The Love You Save" showcases a more mature sound from The Jackson Five. Still, the song not having the same lasting quality as "I Want You Back" or "ABC", and I don't consider it among the strongest of 1970. Regardless, "The Love You Save" is an enjoyable listen. 

      Coming Up Next - "Mama Told Me Not To Come" by Three Dog Night. 

    Until Next Time, I'm Dr. Rock, and may the blog you bookmark be my own!