About the song
“I Can’t Help Myself” by the Four Tops stands as a quintessential Motown classic, embodying the essence of 1960s soul with its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1965 under the Motown label and crafted by the legendary Holland-Dozier-Holland production team, the song quickly became one of the era’s biggest hits, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
At its core, “I Can’t Help Myself” is a jubilant confession of love, delivered with earnestness by lead singer Levi Stubbs. Backed by the harmonies of Abdul “Duke” Fakir, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, Lawrence Payton, and the Andantes, Stubbs croons lines like “Sugar pie, honey bunch, I’m weaker than a man should be!” with a raw, soulful energy that resonated deeply with audiences. The song’s irresistible charm lies in its simplicity and universality, capturing the essence of unguarded emotion and infatuation.
Musically, the track is characterized by its upbeat tempo and dynamic instrumentation, courtesy of the renowned Funk Brothers and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which provided lush strings. The bassline, masterfully played by James Jamerson, and the driving rhythm from Benny Benjamin’s drums, underscore Stubbs’ impassioned vocals, creating a perfect blend of soul, rhythm, and blues.
Upon its release, “I Can’t Help Myself” soared to the top of both the Billboard R&B chart, where it reigned for an impressive nine weeks, and the Hot 100 chart, claiming the No. 1 spot for two non-consecutive weeks. Its popularity was further solidified by its international success, marking the Four Tops’ breakthrough into the UK charts and later re-entering the top 10 upon re-release.
Critically acclaimed, the song has endured through generations, its influence acknowledged by its inclusion in Rolling Stone magazine’s prestigious list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. Its legacy extends beyond its initial release, with numerous cover versions and appearances in commercials, affirming its status as a timeless anthem of love and longing.
“I Can’t Help Myself” not only defined an era of Motown greatness but also remains a testament to the enduring power of soul music to captivate and move listeners, transcending decades with its irresistible blend of passion and melody.
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Lyrics
Ooh, sugar pie, honey bunch
You know that I love you
I Can’t Help Myself
I love you and nobody else
In and out my life (In and out my life)
You come and you go (You come and you go)
Leaving just your picture behind (Ooh)
And I’ve kissed it a thousand times (Ooh)
When you snap your finger or wink your eye
I come a-running to you
I’m tied to your apron strings
And there’s nothing that I can do, ooh
I Can’t Help Myself
No, I Can’t Help Myself
‘Cause sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
I’m weaker than a man should be
I can’t help myself
I’m a fool in love, you see
Wanna tell you I don’t love you
Tell you that we’re through, and I tried
But every time I see your face (Can’t help myself)
I get all choked up inside
When I call your name
Girl, it starts to flame (Burning in my heart, tearing it all apart)
No matter how I try
My love, I cannot hide
‘Cause sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
You know that I’m waiting for you (Waiting for you)
Can’t Help Myself
I love you and nobody else, ooh
Sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
Do anything you ask me to (Ask me to)
Can’t Help Myself
I want you and nobody else, ooh
Sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
You know that I love you (Love you)
Can’t Help Myself
No, I can’t help myself, ooh