The Jackson 5 – Never Can Say Goodbye

Introduction to “Never Can Say Goodbye” by The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5, a quintet of brothers from Gary, Indiana, burst onto the music scene in the late 1960s, revolutionizing the sound of pop and soul. Their infectious harmonies, energetic performances, and timeless melodies captivated audiences worldwide.

Among their many hits, “Never Can Say Goodbye” stands as a testament to their enduring legacy.   

Background

Released in 1970 as the B-side of their single “ABC,” “Never Can Say Goodbye” quickly gained popularity and eventually surpassed its A-side to become a top-ten hit. The song’s poignant lyrics, penned by Motown legend Berry Gordy, explore the bittersweet emotions of parting and the lingering hope of reconciliation.

With its soulful melody and the group’s signature harmonies, the track showcases their musical maturity and emotional depth.

The song begins with a captivating piano intro, setting a melancholic tone. The Jackson brothers’ voices harmonize seamlessly, conveying the pain of separation. The lyrics express the longing for a lost love, with lines like “I’m gonna miss you, baby, more than words can say.” The bridge introduces a hopeful note, suggesting the possibility of reconciliation, but the final chorus reinforces the bittersweet reality of parting.

“Never Can Say Goodbye” is a classic example of the Jackson 5’s ability to blend catchy melodies with heartfelt emotions. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal, relatable lyrics, and the group’s exceptional vocal talent. It remains a beloved anthem of love, loss, and the human experience.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

Never can say goodbye
No, no, no, no I
never can say goodbye
Even tho’ the pain and heartache seem to follow me wherever I go
Tho’ I tried and tried to hide my feelings then always seem to show
Then you try to say you’re leaving me and I always have to say no
Tell me why is it so
But I never can say goodbye
No, no, no, no
never can say goodbye
Every time I think I’ve had enough and start heading for the door
There’s very strange vibrations, piercing me right to the core
It says turn around you fool you know you love her more and more
Tell me why is it so?

Don’t wanna let you go
I never can say goodbye girl
(Never can say goodbye, girl)
Ohh, ohh, baby
(don’t wanna let you go, girl)
I never can say goodbye
No, no, no, no, no, no

Ohh, I never can say goodbye girl
(Never can say goodbye, girl)
Ohh, ohh, ohh
(don’t wanna let you go, baby)
I never can say goodbye
No, no, no, no, no, no
Ohh

Never can say goodbye
No, no, no, no
I never can say goodbye
I keep thinkin’ that our problems soon are all gonna work out
But there’s that same unhappy feelin’ there’s that anguish, there’s that doubt
It’s that same old dizzy hang-up can’t do with you or without
Tell me why is it so