About the song
“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” is more than just a song; it’s a cornerstone of American music history. Penned by the legendary Smokey Robinson in 1962, the track became an instant sensation, propelling The Miracles to superstardom and forever etching its place in the annals of popular music.
This million-selling single wasn’t just a hit – it was a cultural phenomenon. It soared to the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and dominated the R&B charts, solidifying The Miracles’ position as one of Motown’s brightest stars. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” transcended genre, finding fans not only in the burgeoning R&B scene but also captivating pop audiences.
The song’s impact extends far beyond the charts. It received a Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1998, a testament to its enduring quality and influence. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame even included it on their prestigious list of “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll,” highlighting its undeniable contribution to the genre’s evolution.
But “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” isn’t just about accolades. It’s about the raw emotion conveyed by Robinson’s powerful vocals and the tight harmonies of The Miracles. The song explores the complexities of love, capturing the push and pull of a powerful connection. The lyrics express a love that’s both frustrating and irresistible, leaving the listener captivated by the emotional rollercoaster.
The song’s success wasn’t a fluke. Robinson, inspired by Sam Cooke’s “Bring It On Home to Me,” poured his heart into the composition during a business trip to New York. The recording, produced by Robinson himself, featured the band’s signature sound: a pulsating beat, captivating guitar work by Eddie Willis and Marv Tarplin, and the soaring vocals of Robinson and Bobby Rogers.
“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” wasn’t even intended to be the main attraction. It was initially relegated to the B-side of “Happy Landing.” However, the sheer power of the song resonated with audiences, ultimately usurping its A-side counterpart and propelling The Miracles to national fame.
The song’s legacy continues to this day. It’s been covered by countless artists, from The Beatles to Sheryl Crow, each offering their own interpretation of this timeless classic. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” is a testament to the enduring power of music, its ability to capture the complexities of human emotions and resonate across generations.
Video
Lyrics
I don’t like you, but I love you
Seems that I’m always thinking of you
Oh, oh, oh, you treat me badly
I love you madly, you really got a hold on me
You really got a hold on me, you really got a hold on me, you really got a hold, baby
I don’t want you, but I need you
Don’t want to kiss you, but I need you
Oh, oh, oh, you do me wrong now
My love is strong now you really got a hold on me
You really got a hold on me, you really got a hold on me, you really got a hold, baby
I love you and all I want you to do is just hold me
Hold me, hold me, hold me
Tighter
Tighter
I want to leave you, don’t want to stay here
Don’t want to spend another day here
Oh, oh, oh, I want to split now, I can’t quit now
You really got a hold on me, you really got a hold on me, you really got a hold, baby
I love you and all I want you to do is just hold me, please
Hold me, squeeze, hold me, hold me
You really got a hold on me
You really got a hold on me
I said you really got a hold on me