About the song
## Love Child: A Timeless Exploration of Adolescent Love
**Diana Ross & The Supremes**’ “Love Child” is a poignant ballad that delves into the complexities of young love and its societal implications. Released in 1968, the song quickly became a chart-topping hit, resonating with audiences of all ages.
The song’s narrative unfolds through the perspective of a teenage girl who finds herself caught in a whirlwind romance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of youthful infatuation, filled with both excitement and uncertainty. The girl’s emotional turmoil is palpable as she grapples with the societal pressures and moral dilemmas that often accompany such relationships.
The Supremes’ harmonies are a hallmark of the song, adding depth and richness to the emotional landscape. Ross’s soulful vocals convey the character’s vulnerability and longing, making the listener empathize with her struggles. The arrangement is both elegant and understated, allowing the lyrics and melodies to take center stage.
“Love Child” is more than just a catchy pop song; it is a thoughtful exploration of universal themes that continue to resonate with audiences today. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to capture the essence of young love, its societal implications, and the complexities of human relationships. It is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
Started my life in an old, cold, rundown tenement slum
My father left, he never even married mom
I shared the guilt my mama knew
So afraid that others knew I had no name
You think that I don’t feel love
What I feel for you is real love
In other’s eyes I see reflected a hurt, scorned, rejected
Love child, never meant to be
Love child, born in poverty
Love child, never meant to be
Love child, take a look at me
Started to school in a worn, torn, dress that somebody threw out
I knew the way it felt to always live in doubt
To be without the simple things
So afraid my friends would see the guilt in me
This love we’re contemplating, is worth the pain of waiting
We’ll only end up hating the child we may be creating
Love child, never meant to be
Love child, society
Love child, always second best
Love child, different from the rest
Hold on, whoa (Mmm baby)
Hold on, whoa (Mm-mmh baby)
Let me be proud
What you wishing for means so much with a ring on my hand
We’ve come this far, please try your best to understand
If we throw away what we have today
There’ll be nothing left, no self-respect
What a price to pay
Don’t think that I don’t need you
Don’t think I don’t want to please you
No child of mine will be bearing the name of shame I’ve been wearin’
Love child, love child, never quite as good
Afraid, ashamed, misunderstood
I’ll always love you
I’ll always love you
I’ll always love you
I’ll always love you
Never meant to be
Love child, take a look, take a look
Take a look at me
I’ll always love you
I’ll always love you
Take a look, take a look
Take a look at me
Love child, love child
I’ll always love you
I’ll always love you