About the song
“I Can’t Get Next to You” stands as one of the Temptations’ iconic singles, released in 1969 under the Gordy (Motown) label. Co-written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, this track quickly rose to prominence, claiming the No. 1 spot on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Top R&B Singles chart. It held the top position on the pop chart for two weeks in October 1969, replacing “Sugar, Sugar” by the Archies and preceding “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis Presley. Simultaneously, it dominated the R&B chart for five consecutive weeks, succeeding “Oh, What a Night” by the Dells and paving the way for “Baby I’m For Real” by the Originals.
The song’s success marked the Temptations’ second No. 1 hit on the U.S. pop charts and solidified their reputation as one of Motown’s premier acts. Billboard recognized it as the third top-selling song of 1969, highlighting its widespread appeal and commercial impact.
“I Can’t Get Next to You” is characterized by its distinctive introduction, where applause is abruptly halted by Dennis Edwards’ memorable spoken line, “Hold it, hold it, listen.” This unique opening became iconic and was later sampled in another Temptations track, “Psychedelic Shack,” adding to its enduring legacy.
Included on the Temptations’ 1969 album “Puzzle People,” the song exemplifies the group’s ability to blend soulful vocals with a vibrant, energetic musical backdrop. It features multi-lead vocals that showcase the group’s harmonies and dynamic range, contributing to its infectious groove and lasting appeal.
Over the years, “I Can’t Get Next to You” has been covered by various artists, underscoring its timeless quality and influence across different musical genres. Notably, Al Green released a rendition in 1970, offering a slower-paced interpretation on his album “Al Green Gets Next to You,” which achieved notable chart success.
Annie Lennox also paid homage to the song with her rendition on the 1995 album “Medusa,” showcasing its enduring appeal and ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
“I Can’t Get Next to You” remains a cornerstone of the Temptations’ discography, celebrated for its infectious rhythm, innovative production, and the group’s unparalleled vocal prowess. It continues to be cherished as a classic of Motown soul, leaving an indelible mark on the history of popular music.
Video
Lyrics
I
Can turn the gray sky blue
I can make it rain, whenever I want it to, oh I
I can build a castle from a single grain of sand
I can make a ship sail, on dry land tell ’em yeah
But my life is incomplete and I’m so blue
‘Cause I can’t get next to you
I can’t get next to you, babe (next to you)
I can’t get next to you (I just can’t get next you)
I can’t get next to you, babe
I can’t get next to you
I
Can fly like a bird in the sky
Hey, and I can buy anything that money can’t buy
Oh, I
I can turn a river into a raging fire
I can live forever if I so desired
Unimportant are all the things I can do
‘Cause I can’t get next to you
I can’t get next to you, babe (no matter what I do)
I can’t get next to you
Uh-ya
Ooo-ooo
Ooo-ooo
Chica boom, chica boom
Chica boom, boom, boom
I can turn back the hands of time, you better believe I can
I can make the seasons change, just by waving my hand
Oh, I
I can change anything from old to new
The things I want to do the most, I’m unable to do
Unhappy am I with all the powers I possess
‘Cause girl you’re the key to my happiness
And I
Can’t get next to you
Girl, you’re blowing my mind ’cause I can’t get (next to you)
Can’t you see these tears I’m crying? I can’t get (next to you)
Girl, it’s you that I need, I gotta get (next to you)
Can’t you see these tears I’m crying? I can’t get (next to you)
I, I, I, I, I can’t get (next to you)
I, I, I, I, I can’t get (next to you)
Girl, you’re blowing my mind