In the ever-evolving landscape of soul music, few songs encapsulate the heartfelt energy and iconic sound of Motown as powerfully as “Something About You” by the Four Tops. Released in 1965 as part of the group’s second studio album, Four Tops Second Album, this lesser-known gem shines as a testament to the group’s harmonious depth and infectious groove. Nestled in a catalog dominated by hits like “Reach Out I’ll Be There” and “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),” “Something About You” is often overshadowed by these blockbuster hits. However, this track has a magic all its own—a unique charm that combines Motown’s signature sound with the emotional depth the Four Tops consistently brought to their music. Let’s dive into what makes this song special and why it remains a significant piece of the Four Tops’ legacy.
1. The Story Behind the Song
“Something About You” was written by the legendary Motown songwriting team Holland-Dozier-Holland, the masterminds behind many of the label’s greatest hits. The song follows a familiar narrative: the allure and mystery of attraction. But what sets it apart is the raw honesty and soulful delivery the Four Tops bring, especially in lead singer Levi Stubbs’ emotionally resonant performance. Stubbs had a way of delivering lyrics with a distinct edge, drawing listeners into the story of a powerful yet inexplicable attraction.
Holland-Dozier-Holland understood the chemistry between Levi Stubbs’ commanding voice and the layered harmonies of the other Tops (Lawrence Payton, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, and Abdul “Duke” Fakir), and they crafted “Something About You” to showcase that synergy. The song isn’t just about love—it’s about that indescribable something that pulls two people together, something intangible and undeniable. This sense of magnetic pull is reflected not only in the lyrics but also in the intense, driving rhythm and melodies.
2. A Sonic Snapshot of 1960s Soul
Musically, “Something About You” is quintessentially Motown. The song is built on an irresistible groove, a tight rhythm section, and a punchy horn arrangement that propels the listener forward. It captures the essence of the Motown sound that defined 1960s soul: polished yet raw, sophisticated yet grounded in emotion. The Funk Brothers, Motown’s in-house band, lend their signature instrumental flair, making “Something About You” a danceable and deeply soulful tune.
One of the most striking elements of the track is its driving beat, which creates a sense of urgency. It’s as if the music itself is echoing the protagonist’s desperate need to understand this powerful attraction. The bass line is smooth and groovy, lending the song a foundation that supports Stubbs’ emotive vocal line, while the guitars add subtle textures that enhance the overall feel without overpowering the vocals. The use of horns gives the song a sense of grandeur, a triumphant sound that is quintessentially Motown.
3. Levi Stubbs: The Soul of the Song
Levi Stubbs was known for his powerful voice that could convey a wide range of emotions, and his performance on “Something About You” is no exception. Stubbs’ vocal style was unique in that he didn’t try to sing perfectly smooth notes; instead, he infused his voice with raw intensity, giving each lyric an urgency that resonated with listeners. In “Something About You,” Stubbs captures the yearning and confusion of being drawn to someone without understanding why.
His vocals are a blend of passion and frustration, almost as if he’s searching for answers within the lyrics. This level of emotional depth was a hallmark of Stubbs’ style, and it’s one of the reasons why the Four Tops stood out in the crowded Motown lineup. His ability to make listeners feel what he was feeling was a rare talent, and it shines brilliantly in this song.
4. The Four Tops’ Harmonies: A Perfect Backdrop
While Stubbs’ vocals are the focal point of the song, the harmonies provided by Payton, Benson, and Fakir add depth and texture to the overall sound. The backing vocals serve as a conversation with the lead, echoing Stubbs’ sentiments and reinforcing the theme of longing and attraction. The harmonies aren’t overly complex, but they’re incredibly effective, creating a sound that feels warm and inviting.
In “Something About You,” the harmonies act almost like a Greek chorus, reflecting and amplifying the lead singer’s emotions. They add a layer of richness to the song, making it feel full and complete. The synergy between the lead and backing vocals is a crucial part of what makes the Four Tops’ music so enduring. It’s a reminder of the power of group harmony in soul music, where each member contributes to a sound that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
5. Why “Something About You” Still Resonates Today
“Something About You” may not be as widely recognized as some of the Four Tops’ other hits, but it has an enduring appeal that resonates with fans of classic soul and new listeners alike. The song’s themes of attraction and mystery are universal, and the Four Tops’ passionate performance makes these themes feel timeless. While the track is rooted in the sounds of the 1960s, its emotional core feels fresh and relevant today.
The song serves as a reminder of the power of Motown and the depth of the Four Tops’ artistry. It’s easy to think of Motown as merely producing “hits,” but songs like “Something About You” show that it was also a place where artists could explore complex emotions and ideas. This song is a testament to the fact that some of the best music is not necessarily the most commercially successful or widely known, but rather the music that captures genuine human emotion.
6. Rediscovering a Hidden Gem
In recent years, there’s been a renewed interest in digging deeper into classic soul and Motown catalogs, and songs like “Something About You” are gaining appreciation among music enthusiasts. For those who only know the Four Tops for their biggest hits, “Something About You” is a wonderful introduction to the depth and variety of their music. It’s a reminder of the group’s ability to capture complex emotions in just a few minutes and leave listeners feeling understood and connected.
In conclusion, “Something About You” is more than just another track in the Four Tops’ catalog. It’s a song that speaks to the mystery and power of attraction, brought to life by one of the most talented vocal groups of the era. The synergy between Levi Stubbs’ passionate vocals, the harmonies of Payton, Benson, and Fakir, and the rich musical backdrop crafted by the Funk Brothers makes it a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a soul classic, give “Something About You” a listen—you might just find yourself drawn in by that “something” you can’t quite explain.