Introduction to “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” by Diana Ross & The Supremes
Diana Ross & The Supremes‘ “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a classic Motown anthem that encapsulates the rollercoaster of emotions experienced in a tumultuous romantic relationship.
Released in 1966 as the lead single from their album “Supremes A’ Go-Go,” the song quickly ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing the group’s status as one of the most popular acts of the era.
Background
The song’s irresistibly catchy melody and Ross’s powerful vocals combine to create a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today.
The lyrics express the frustration and longing of a woman who is caught in a love triangle, torn between her desire to hold onto a relationship and the fear of being rejected. The song’s repetitive chorus, “You keep me hangin’ on,” serves as a poignant metaphor for the protagonist’s emotional state.
“You Keep Me Hangin’ On” was produced by Holland-Dozier-Holland, the legendary songwriting and production team behind many of Motown’s greatest hits. Their signature sound, characterized by its infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and uplifting harmonies, is evident throughout the song.
The arrangement features a driving bassline, a pulsating beat, and a lush orchestral backdrop that adds to the song’s emotional intensity.
Ross’s vocal performance on “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is nothing short of extraordinary. Her voice is full of emotion and power, conveying the song’s message with raw intensity. She effortlessly transitions between soaring high notes and soulful low registers, showcasing her versatility as a vocalist. The other members of The Supremes, Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard, provide strong backing vocals that complement Ross’s lead vocals and add to the song’s overall harmony.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Set me free, why don’t cha, baby?Get out my life, why don’t cha, baby?‘Cause you don’t really love meYou just keep me hangin’ onYou don’t really need meBut you keep me hangin’ onWhy 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 youThe way you’ve gotten over me, heySet 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 meYou just keep me hangin’ on (oh, oh, oh, oh)Now, you don’t really want meYou just keep me hangin’ onYou say, although we broke upYou still wanna be just friendsBut how can we still be friends?When seein’ you only breaks my heart again?And there ain’t nothin’ I can do about itset 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 meBut your heart and soul needs to be freeAnd now that you’ve got your freedomYou wanna still hold on to meYou don’t want me for yourselfSo let me find somebody else, heyWhy don’t you be a man about it?And set me free? (Uh)Now, you don’t care a thing about meYou’re just usin’ me (uh)Go on, get out, get out of my lifeAnd let me sleep at night, please (uh)‘Cause you don’t really love meYou just keep me hangin’ on