EVERY UK NUMBER ONE SONG: ‘Reach Out I’ll Be There’ – Four Tops

What was the number one song in the UK on 27th October 1966?

American vocal quartet, Four Tops, got to number one for 3 weeks with Reach Out I’ll Be There.

I bloody love this song. From it’s famous introduction, emotive chorus and Levi Stubbs’ vocals, it’s sublime. It sometimes feels like a mix of classic Motown soul with a little bit of 60s rock. This can be heard in particular with Levi’s vocals. My only criticism of this song is that it cuts off too short. It starts fading as soon as it kicks into the final chorus right after a dramatic pause and I think most fans of this song, could easily listen to the rest of the chorus without the fade at least.

Lyrics

Now if you feel that you can’t go on
Because all of your hope is gone,
And your life is filled with much confusion
Until happiness is just an illusion,
And your world around is crumblin’ down;
Darling, reach out (come on girl, reach on out for me)
Reach out (reach out for me.)
I’ll be there, with a love that will shelter you.
I’ll be there, with a love that will see you through.
I’ll be there to always see you through.
When you feel lost and about to give up
‘Cause your best just ain’t good enough
And you feel the world has grown cold,
And you’re drifting out all on your own,
And you need a hand to hold:
Darling, reach out (come on girl, reach out for me)
Reach out (reach out for me.)
I’ll be there, to love and comfort you,
And I’ll be there, to cherish and care for you.
I’ll be there to love and comfort you.
I can tell the way you hang your head,
You’re without love and now you’re afraid
And through your tears you look around,
But there’s no peace of mind to be found.
I know what you’re thinkin’,
You’re alone now, no love of your own,
But darling, reach out (come on girl, reach out for me)
Reach out (reach out for me.)
Just look over your shoulder
I’ll be there, to give you all the love you need,
And I’ll be there, you can always depend on me.

The Playlist

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