About the song
In the realm of soul music, few names resonate with the power and passion of Sam Cooke. Often hailed as the “King of Soul,” Cooke’s voice possessed an unmatched ability to stir emotions, conveying both the depths of sorrow and the heights of joy with an effortless grace that left audiences spellbound. Among his many enduring classics, “Cupid” stands out as a timeless gem, a heartfelt plea for love’s intervention that has captivated listeners for generations.
Released in 1961, “Cupid” emerged as a beacon of soulful expression, showcasing Cooke’s masterful blend of gospel fervor and pop sensibilities. The song’s opening lines, “Cupid, draw back your bow / And let your arrow go / Straight to my lover’s heart for me,” set the stage for a heartfelt entreaty, as Cooke implores the Roman god of love to strike his beloved with an arrow of affection.
The song’s melody, a captivating blend of Latin rhythms and soulful cadences, perfectly complements Cooke’s impassioned vocals. His voice soars and dips, conveying the urgency of his plea while exuding an irresistible charm that makes the song an irresistible listen.
“Cupid” proved to be a commercial success, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 20 on the Hot R&B Sides chart. Its popularity extended beyond the United States, peaking at number seven on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s enduring appeal has earned it a place on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Beyond its chart success, “Cupid” has become a cultural touchstone, appearing in numerous films and television shows. Its message of love and longing continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, cementing its status as a soul music classic.
As the song reaches its crescendo, Cooke’s voice overflows with emotion, pleading, “Cupid, don’t you hear me calling you? / I need you, Cupid, why don’t you hear me?” His desperation is palpable, yet tempered by an underlying hope that Cupid will heed his plea.
“Cupid” fades out on a lingering note of longing, leaving the listener with an indelible impression of Cooke’s soulful artistry. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power to connect with listeners on an emotional level, reminding us of the universal desire for love and the transformative power of music.
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Lyrics
Cupid, draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover’s heart for me, for me
Cupid, please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Now I don’t mean to bother you but I’m in distress
There’s danger of me losing all of my happiness
For I love a girl who doesn’t know I exist
And this you can fix, so
Cupid, draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Nobody but me
Cupid, please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Now, Cupid if your arrow make a love storm for me
I promise I will love her until eternity
I know between the two of us, her heart we can steal
Help me if you will, so
Cupid, draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Nobody but me
Cupid, please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Now, Cupid, don’t you hear me
Calling you? I need ya
Cupid, help me, I need you
Cupid, don’t fail me