About the song
The Timeless Sound of “Still Water (Love)”
In the vibrant musical landscape of the 1970s, few songs captured the essence of love and social consciousness as eloquently as “Still Water (Love)”, a hit single by the legendary Motown group Four Tops. Written by the iconic Smokey Robinson and Frank Wilson, and produced by the latter, this song was a departure from the group’s previous recordings, showcasing a smoother sound that would become a hallmark of the era. Released in 1970, “Still Water (Love)” was a socially conscious single that not only resonated with listeners but also left an indelible mark on the music industry.
A Song Born from Collaboration and Innovation
The song’s creation was a testament to the collaborative spirit of Motown’s golden era. Smokey Robinson and Frank Wilson, two of the most influential figures in Motown’s history, came together to craft a song that would not only showcase the group’s vocal prowess but also push the boundaries of musical innovation. The result was a song that featured a unique chord structure, with a repeated pattern of E-Flat Major, C Minor, and B-Flat Major, creating a sense of continuity and flow that was both soothing and captivating.
A Legacy that Endures
“Still Water (Love)” was a commercial success, reaching #4 on the Hot Soul Singles chart and #11 on the US Pop Chart. Its impact extended beyond the charts, however, as it became a staple of the Motown sound, influencing generations of musicians to come. The song’s legacy can be seen in the many covers and interpretations that followed, including Terry Callier’s 1979 rendition, “Turn to Love”, and O’Bryan’s 1982 cover, “Doin’ Alright”. Today, “Still Water (Love)” remains a beloved classic, a testament to the power of music to transcend time and touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
A Song that Continues to Inspire
As we reflect on the enduring legacy of “Still Water (Love)”, we are reminded of the importance of music as a force for social change and personal connection. This song, with its themes of love and peace, continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners alike. Its impact is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the timeless appeal of a well-crafted song. In the words of Smokey Robinson, “Still Water (Love)” is a song that “still runs deep”, a reminder of the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and minds.
Video
Lyrics
Walk with me
Take my hand
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Still water
Ah, ah, ah
Never you mind if I
Don’t tell strangers passing by
If I don’t brag
If I don’t brag or boast
Click my glass and say a toast
About my love for you
How it runs so deep and true
And yet it’s so
‘Cause don’t you know, oh
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Oh, oh oh
Walk with me
Take my hand
Still waters
Still water
Walk with me
Take my hand
Whoa, whoa, whoa now
Still waters run deep
Hey, hey, hey, hey
Whoa, whoa, whoa now
Still waters run deep