About the song
“Reach Out I’ll Be There” stands tall as a definitive Motown classic, etched into the annals of music history by the vocal prowess of the Four Tops. Released in 1966 as part of their fourth studio album, “Reach Out,” the song swiftly ascended charts worldwide, cementing its place as one of the era’s most iconic hits. Crafted by Motown’s formidable songwriting and production team, Holland–Dozier–Holland, the track seamlessly blends soulful melodies with a pulsating rhythm, capturing the essence of 1960s R&B.
The song’s journey began with Lamont Dozier’s vision of creating a musical narrative rich in emotional depth—a journey from minor key verses with a Russian melancholy to uplifting gospel-inspired choruses. This structural duality aimed to evoke a spectrum of feelings, heightened by Levi Stubbs’ impassioned vocal delivery. Stubbs, known for his powerful voice, lent the song a distinctive edge, straddling the line between singing and emotive shouting, a technique reminiscent of his earlier hits.
Recording “Reach Out I’ll Be There” was an exercise in meticulous craftsmanship. The arrangement included innovative touches like overdubbed instruments—such as piccolos and flutes—enhancing the orchestral richness of the composition. The drum pattern, crafted using unconventional techniques with tambourines, added further dynamism to the track. Despite initial reservations from the Four Tops themselves about its unconventional style, Motown founder Berry Gordy insisted on its release as a single, a decision vindicated by its subsequent chart-topping success.
Critically acclaimed from the outset, the song’s impact reverberates through music history. Rolling Stone recognized its enduring influence by ranking it among “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” underscoring its status as a soul symphony of epic proportions. The blend of Stubbs’ evocative vocal performance and the song’s rock-solid groove continues to captivate listeners decades later.
In 2022, the Library of Congress honored “Reach Out I’ll Be There” with inclusion in the National Recording Registry, solidifying its cultural significance. With its dramatic tension and cathartic release, the song remains a testament to the artistic vision of its creators and the timeless appeal of Motown’s golden era. “Reach Out I’ll Be There” not only defines the Four Tops’ legacy but also encapsulates the spirit of an era defined by soulful expression and musical innovation.
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Lyrics
Now if you feel that you can’t go on
Because all of your hope is gone
And your life is filled with much confusion
Until happiness is just an illusion
And your world around is crumblin’ down
Darling, reach out, come on girl, reach on out for me
Reach out, reach out for me
I’ll be there, with a love that will shelter you
I’ll be there, with a love that will see you through
When you feel lost and about to give up
‘Cause your best just ain’t good enough
And you feel the world has grown cold
And you’re drifting out all on your own
And you need a hand to hold
Darling, reach out, come on girl, reach out for me
Reach out, reach out for me
I’ll be there, to love and comfort you
And I’ll be there, to cherish and care for you
I’ll be there, with a love that will see you through
I’ll be there to love and comfort you
I can tell the way you hang your head
You’re without love and now you’re afraid
And through your tears you look around
But there’s no peace of mind to be found
I know what you’re thinkin’
You’re alone now, no love of your own
But darling, reach out, come on girl, reach out for me
Reach out
Just look over your shoulder
I’ll be there, to give you all the love you need
And I’ll be there, you can always depend on me
I’ll be there, to give you all the love you need
I’ll be there, you can always depend on me
I’ll be there