About the song
## You Keep Me Hangin’ On: A Timeless Supremes Classic
The Supremes, a trio of Detroit-born singers, emerged in the early 1960s as one of the most influential girl groups of all time. Their harmonies, combined with their infectious energy and Motown’s signature sound, propelled them to international stardom. Among their many hits, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” stands out as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Released in 1966, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a heart-wrenching ballad that explores the emotional turmoil of unrequited love. The song’s driving rhythm and soaring vocals capture the intensity of the protagonist’s longing and frustration. The lyrics, penned by Holland-Dozier-Holland, the songwriting team behind many of the Supremes’ hits, paint a vivid picture of a relationship caught in a state of limbo.
The song’s opening lines, “I’m hanging by a thread, a fragile thread of hope,” immediately set the tone for the emotional journey that follows. The protagonist is desperately clinging to the possibility of reconciliation, but their partner’s indifference is slowly eroding their hope. The repetition of the phrase “you keep me hangin’ on” throughout the song emphasizes the protagonist’s vulnerability and their inability to let go.
The Supremes’ harmonies are a key element in the song’s emotional impact. The three singers’ voices blend seamlessly, creating a rich and textured sound that complements the song’s dramatic themes. Diana Ross, the group’s lead singer, delivers a powerful and emotive performance, conveying the protagonist’s pain and anguish with raw intensity.
Beyond its emotional resonance, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is also a testament to the enduring power of Motown music. The song’s infectious melody and driving rhythm have made it a popular choice for covers and samples. Artists as diverse as The Kinks, David Bowie, and Kim Wilde have offered their own interpretations of the classic.
In conclusion, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a masterpiece of songwriting and vocal performance. The Supremes’ heartfelt rendition of this timeless ballad continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the group or discovering their music for the first time, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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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