About the song
“The One Who Really Loves You” by Mary Wells is a quintessential Motown classic that beautifully showcases the soulful voice and heartfelt emotion of one of Motown’s pioneering female artists. Released in 1962, this song was penned by the legendary Smokey Robinson, whose songwriting brilliance shines through in the song’s catchy melody and poignant lyrics. It is the title track from Wells’ second studio album, “The One Who Really Loves You,” which played a significant role in cementing her status as a leading star in the Motown roster.
The song narrates the story of a woman who reassures her lover of her unwavering devotion, despite the challenges they face. With a rhythm that’s both bouncy and smooth, “The One Who Really Loves You” perfectly captures the essence of early 1960s soul music. Mary Wells’ tender yet powerful delivery brings the song’s emotions to life, making it easy for listeners to connect with its message of enduring love and loyalty.
Upon its release, “The One Who Really Loves You” achieved remarkable success, climbing to number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and securing the number 2 spot on the R&B singles chart. This commercial triumph was a testament to Wells’ growing popularity and the universal appeal of her music. The success of this single, along with others, helped to establish Mary Wells as “The Queen of Motown” during the early years of the label’s ascent to greatness.
The production of the song, featuring the impeccable musicianship of The Funk Brothers, Motown’s house band, provides a rich, textured backdrop that complements Wells’ vocal performance perfectly. Their contributions are a key part of what made Motown’s sound so distinctive and beloved.
“The One Who Really Loves You” remains a standout track in Mary Wells’ discography and an enduring favorite among fans of classic soul music. Its timeless appeal lies in its combination of relatable lyrics, memorable melody, and Wells’ captivating voice. This song not only highlights Mary Wells’ significant contribution to Motown’s early success but also showcases Smokey Robinson’s exceptional talent as a songwriter. Together, they created a piece of music history that continues to resonate with audiences today.
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Lyrics
Some other girls are filling your head with jive
So now, you’re acting like you don’t know that I’m alive
Love, you better wake up
Yeah, before we break up
And you lose me, little me
The one who really loves you
Suzie, only wants you until the day
(Only wants you until the day)
That she’ll again have her true love
Who’s far, far, away
(Her true love, who’s far away)
So love, you better wake up (wake up)
Yeah, before we break up and you lose me, little me
The one who really loves you (I really love you, yeah-yeah-yeah)
Ginny only wants you ’cause she thinks she has to have everyone
Minnie, only wants you
‘Cause she thinks that hurting me would be fun
Oh, oh, oh
Silly Lilly, you know she doesn’t really
Want you with a love that’s true
In fact, there’s no other girl
In this whole wide world
Who can love you like I do
They get tired of you
Then, they’re gonna put you down
(Put you down, put you down)
Then, they ain’t gonna want you hangin’ around
(Hangin’ around, hangin’ around)
So love, you better wake up (wake up)
Yeah, before we break up
And you lose me, little me
The one who really loves you (I really love you, yeah-yeah-yeah)
I-I-I do (yeah-yeah)
Really, really, love you
(I really love you, yeah-yeah-yeah)
Oh-oh, oh-oh, oh-oh, ooh-ooh (yeah-yeah)
(I really love you)