Diana Ross & The Supremes & The Temptations – I’ll Try Something New: A Motown Masterpiece of Unity and Optimism
In the vibrant tapestry of Motown music, Diana Ross & The Supremes and The Temptations stand as two of the most iconic and beloved groups. Their voices, imbued with soul, emotion, and an undeniable touch of magic, have captivated audiences for generations. In 1968, these two powerhouse ensembles came together to create a masterpiece of unity and optimism: “I’ll Try Something New.”
Background
Released as a joint single, “I’ll Try Something New” marked a special moment in Motown history, uniting the reigning queens and kings of the label for a song that exuded positivity and a willingness to embrace the unfamiliar. The song’s opening notes, a gentle interplay of piano and strings, set the stage for a journey of musical exploration.
Diana Ross’s soaring vocals, brimming with her signature grace and elegance, take center stage, introducing the song’s message of embracing new experiences and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. The Supremes, with their impeccable harmonies, provide a lush backdrop, their voices intertwining seamlessly to create a tapestry of sound.
Not to be outdone, The Temptations enter with their signature soulful energy, their voices adding a touch of grit and determination to the song’s message. Eddie Kendricks’s lead vocals are particularly captivating, his impassioned delivery emphasizing the power of taking a leap of faith and trying something new.
The lyrics, penned by the legendary Smokey Robinson, are as simple as they are profound, capturing the essence of human curiosity and the desire to expand one’s horizons. The song’s chorus, a rousing declaration of openness and willingness to embrace the unknown, is as infectious as it is inspiring: “I’ll try something new, if it means I’ll find you.”
The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in Motown production, featuring a driving beat, lush orchestration, and a soulful undercurrent that keeps the energy flowing throughout. The interplay between the two groups is nothing short of electrifying, their voices blending and contrasting in a way that is both harmonious and dynamic.
“I’ll Try Something New” quickly became a hit, reaching number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to capture the universal human spirit of adventure and the joy of discovering new possibilities.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Smokey Robinson.
- It was released in 1968 as a joint single by Diana Ross & The Supremes and The Temptations.
- The song reached number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969.
- “I’ll Try Something New” has been covered by many artists, including Donny Hathaway, Gladys Knight & The Pips, and Michael Jackson.