About the song
The Supremes’ “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is a powerful anthem that showcases both the group’s vocal prowess and the iconic Motown sound. Released in 1966 as a single and featured on their album “The Supremes Sing Holland–Dozier–Holland,” this song stands as a testament to the group’s ability to deliver emotive performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
Written by the celebrated songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” features a distinctive blend of soulful vocals by Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard (later replaced by Cindy Birdsong). The song’s lyrics convey the pain and longing of a tumultuous relationship, underscored by its driving beat and memorable chorus.
Upon its release, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking The Supremes’ eighth number 1 hit. It also topped the Billboard R&B singles chart, highlighting its broad appeal and popularity across diverse audiences.
The album “The Supremes Sing Holland–Dozier–Holland,” where the song was prominently featured, achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. It further solidified The Supremes’ status as chart-topping artists and showcased their ability to consistently deliver hit singles.
“You Keep Me Hangin’ On” has endured as a classic in the Motown catalogue, celebrated for its infectious melody and the emotional depth of its lyrics. Its influence can still be felt in contemporary music, with numerous artists paying homage to its enduring legacy.
In summary, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” encapsulates The Supremes’ musical brilliance and their impact on the pop and soul genres. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate listeners, affirming its place as a cornerstone of popular music history and a testament to The Supremes’ enduring legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Set me free why don’t cha, babe
Get out my life why don’t cha, babe
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on
Set me free why don’t cha, babe
Get out my life why don’t cha, babe (ooh, ooh, ooh)
‘Cause you don’t really need me
But you just keep me hangin’ on
Why do you keep a-comin’ around playing with my heart?
Why don’t cha get out of my life and let me make a brand new start?
Let me get over you the way you gotten over me, yeah
Set me free why don’t cha, babe
Get out my life why don’t cha, babe (ooh, ooh, ooh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on
No, you don’t really want me
You just keep me hangin’ on
You say although we broke up you still just wanna be just friends
But how can we still be friends when seeing you only breaks my heart again
(And there ain’t nothing I can do about it)
Whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa
Yeah, yeah
Get out, get out of my life
And let me sleep at night
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me (hangin’ on) hangin’ on
You say you still care for me but your heart and soul needs to be free
And now that you’ve got your freedom you wanna still hold on to me
You don’t want me for yourself so let me find somebody else
Set me free why don’t cha, babe
Get out my life why don’t cha, babe (ooh, ooh, ooh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on
Why don’t cha be a man about it and set me free
Now you don’t care a thing about me
You’re just using me
Hey, abusing me
Get out, get out of my life
And let me sleep at night (ooh, ooh, ooh)
‘Cause you don’t really love me
You just keep me hangin’ on (ooh, ooh, ooh)