Introduction to “Up the Ladder to the Roof” by The Supremes
The Supremes, a trio of Detroit-born women, reigned as the undisputed queens of Motown in the mid-1960s. Their harmonies, combined with their infectious energy and glamorous image, captivated audiences worldwide.
Background
One of their most iconic tracks, “Up the Ladder to the Roof”, is a quintessential example of their signature sound.
Released in 1966, “Up the Ladder to the Roof” is a joyous celebration of love and aspiration. The song’s uplifting melody and optimistic lyrics perfectly capture the spirit of the era. The Supremes’ vocal prowess shines through, as they effortlessly navigate the song’s intricate harmonies.
The song’s opening verse sets the scene, with the narrator expressing their desire to escape the mundane and reach new heights in their relationship. The metaphor of climbing a ladder symbolizes the journey of love and growth. The chorus, with its catchy refrain of “Up the ladder to the roof, where we can be alone,” reinforces this theme of reaching new heights and finding intimacy.
The bridge of the song introduces a playful element, as the narrator imagines building a house on the roof. This whimsical image adds to the overall sense of joy and optimism. The final chorus brings the song to a triumphant conclusion, with the narrator declaring their love and commitment to their partner.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Come with meAnd we shall run across the skyAnd illuminate the nightOh, oh, oh, I will try and guide youTo better times and brighter daysDon’t be afraidGo up the ladder to the roofWhere we can see heaven much betterGo up the ladder to the roofWhere we can be (where we can be, where we can be)Closer to heaven (to heaven, stay)Stay with meAnd we shall let expressions sing(Please bring our virtues with us)Can’t you hear ’em ringing? (Ringing)Oh-oh-ohMemories of yesterdaysYesterday’s broken dreamsDon’t you know they’ll all fade awayIf you’ll comeUp the ladder to the roofWhere we can see heaven much betterCome up the ladder to the roofWhere we can be (where we can be)Oh, closer to heavenWe’ll laugh and I’ll tell you the story of loveHow it is, and the happiness in it babyWe’ll combine our thoughtsAnd together we’ll travel the roadsTo the fountain of lovelinessI will never, ever, ever leave youLeave you alone to wonderAs we go on our love, it will grow (it will grow)Much stronger strongerDon’t you wanna goUp the ladder to the roofWhere we can see heaven much betterGo up the ladder to the roofWhere we can be closer to heavenAh, up the (up the)Ooh-ooh, up the (up the)Oh, come on and walk (walk)Come on and talk (talk)Come and sing about love and understandingOoh-ooh-oohUp the ladder to the roofOoh-ooh-oohSee heaven much better