About the song
Released in 1966, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a timeless masterpiece by the iconic American vocal group, The Supremes. This song, written by Holland-Dozier-Holland, is a testament to the group’s ability to craft catchy, memorable melodies that have stood the test of time. With its lush harmonies, soaring vocals, and a dash of Motown magic, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” has become an enduring classic in the world of popular music.
The song’s narrative is a poignant exploration of the emotional highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics, delivered with conviction by lead vocalist Diana Ross, paint a picture of a lover who is torn between the thrill of being in love and the agony of being left hanging. The song’s chorus, with its iconic “you keep me hangin’ on” refrain, has become one of the most recognizable and beloved in pop music history.
Musically, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a masterclass in arrangement and production. The song’s instrumentation, featuring a prominent guitar riff and a driving beat, provides a perfect backdrop for the group’s lush harmonies. The song’s bridge, with its dramatic build-up and release, is a particularly standout moment, showcasing the group’s impressive vocal range and control.
“You Keep Me Hangin’ On” has been a staple of The Supremes’ live performances for decades, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the group’s ability to craft songs that transcend generations. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Kim Wilde, who had a hit with her 1986 cover of the song. However, it is The Supremes’ original version that remains the definitive recording, a true masterpiece of Motown’s golden era.
In conclusion, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. With its unforgettable melody, poignant lyrics, and masterful production, this song is a must-listen for anyone who loves music. The Supremes’ legacy is a testament to the power of music to bring people together, and “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a shining example of their enduring impact on the world of popular music.
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Lyrics
Set me free, why don’t cha, baby?
Get out my life, why don’t cha, baby?
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on
You don’t really need me
But you keep me hangin’ on
Why do you keep a-comin’ around?
Playin’ a-with my heart?
Why don’t you get out of my life?
And let me make a new start?
Lettin’ me get over you
The way you’ve gotten over me, hey
Set me free, why don’t cha, babe?
Let me be, why don’t cha, babe? (Oh, oh, oh, oh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on (oh, oh, oh, oh)
Now, you don’t really want me
You just keep me hangin’ on
You say, although we broke up
You still wanna be just friends
But how can we still be friends?
When seein’ you only breaks my heart again?
And there ain’t nothin’ I can do about it
set me free, why don’t cha babe?
(Whoa, whoa, whoa) get out my life, why don’t cha babe?
(Uh) set me free, why don’t cha, babe?
Get out my life, why don’t cha, babe?
You claim you still care for me
But your heart and soul needs to be free
And now that you’ve got your freedom
You wanna still hold on to me
You don’t want me for yourself
So let me find somebody else, hey
Why don’t you be a man about it?
And set me free? (Uh)
Now, you don’t care a thing about me
You’re just usin’ me (uh)
Go on, get out, get out of my life
And let me sleep at night, please (uh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on