About the song
The Supremes’ “You Can’t Hurry Love” stands as a timeless anthem of love and patience within the Motown repertoire. Released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “The Supremes Sing Holland–Dozier–Holland,” this song is a testament to the group’s harmonious vocals and the iconic Motown sound.
The Supremes, consisting of Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard (later replaced by Cindy Birdsong), were a pivotal force in the 1960s music scene under the guidance of Berry Gordy at Motown Records. They epitomized elegance, style, and vocal prowess, becoming one of the most successful groups of their era.
Written by the legendary songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland, “You Can’t Hurry Love” features a catchy melody and relatable lyrics about the patience required in matters of the heart. The song’s upbeat tempo and Diana Ross’s lead vocals captured the essence of Motown’s upbeat, soulful sound, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Upon its release, “You Can’t Hurry Love” soared to the top of the charts, becoming The Supremes’ seventh number 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. It also reached the top spot on the Billboard R&B singles chart, showcasing its widespread appeal and impact.
The album “The Supremes Sing Holland–Dozier–Holland” showcased not only “You Can’t Hurry Love” but also other hits such as “You Keep Me Hangin’ On,” demonstrating The Supremes’ versatility and range. The album itself peaked at number 6 on the Billboard 200 chart, further solidifying their status as chart-topping artists.
Over the years, “You Can’t Hurry Love” has remained a beloved classic, celebrated for its infectious groove and timeless message. Its influence can still be felt in contemporary music, and its legacy continues to resonate with listeners, reaffirming The Supremes’ place as trailblazers in the world of soul and pop music.
Video
Lyrics
I need love, love to ease my mind
I need to find, find someone to call mine
But mama said you can’t hurry love
No you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take
You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
You gotta trust, give it time
No matter how long it takes
But how many heartaches must I stand
Before I find a love to let me live again
Right now the only thing that keeps me hanging on
When I feel my strength, yeah, it’s almost gone
I remember mama said
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take
How long must I wait? How much more can I take?
Before loneliness will ’cause my heart, heart to break
No, I can’t bear to live my life alone
I grow impatient for a love to call my own
But when I feel that I, I can’t go on
These precious words keeps me hanging on
I remember mama said
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take
You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said trust, give it time
No matter how long it takes (gotta wait)
No love, love don’t come easy
But I keep on waiting, anticipating for that
Soft voice to talk to me at night
For some tender arms to hold me tight
I keep waiting, I keep on waiting (give and take)
But it ain’t easy, it ain’t easy when mama said
You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said trust, give it time
No matter how long it takes
You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
She said love don’t come easy
It’s a game of give and take
You can’t hurry love
No, you just have to wait
Mama said just give it time