About the song
“Stop! In the Name of Love” is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Recorded in 1965 by the legendary Supremes for the iconic Motown label, this song has become an anthem of love, heartbreak, and caution. Written and produced by the renowned Holland-Dozier-Holland team, “Stop! In the Name of Love” was a massive hit, reaching the number one position on the Billboard pop singles chart and staying there for a week. The song’s success was not limited to the US, as it also reached the number two spot on the soul chart.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. In 2001, the 1965 recording of “Stop! In the Name of Love” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and in 2021, it was listed at number 254 on Rolling Stone’s “Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time”. The song’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, with its influence extending beyond the music world to fashion, dance, and even film.
The song’s origins are rooted in the personal experiences of Lamont Dozier, one of the song’s writers. Dozier drew inspiration from his own heartbreak, using the phrase “Baby, please stop. In the name of love- before you break my heart” during an argument with his girlfriend. The Supremes’ recording of “Stop! In the Name of Love” is a masterclass in vocal harmonies, with Diana Ross, Florence Ballard, and Mary Wilson delivering a performance that is both powerful and poignant.
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Lyrics
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Baby, baby I’m aware of where you go
Each time you leave my door
I watch you walk down the street
Knowing your other love you’ll meet
But this time before you run to her
Leaving me alone and hurt
(Think it over) After I’ve been good to you
(Think it over) After I’ve been sweet to you
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Think it over
Think it over
I’ve known of your
Your secluded nights
I’ve even seen her
Maybe once or twice
But is her sweet expression
Worth more than my love and affection
But this time before you leave my arms
And rush off to her charms
(Think it over) Haven’t I been good to you
(Think it over) Haven’t I been sweet to you
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Think it over
Think it over
I’ve tried so hard, hard to be patient
Hoping you’d stop this infatuation
But each time you are together
I’m so afraid I’ll be losing you forever
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love