Four Tops – I Can’t Help Myself
“I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” is a song written by Holland–Dozier–Holland and originally recorded by The Four Tops for the Motown label in 1965. The song was the group’s second Motown single and their first Top 10 hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Hot R&B Singles chart in the United States. It was also a hit in the United Kingdom, reaching number 12 on the UK Singles Chart.
Background and composition
“I Can’t Help Myself” was written by Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland. The song was inspired by Holland–Dozier–Holland’s own experiences with love and heartbreak. They wanted to write a song that would capture the feeling of being helplessly in love.
The song’s lyrics are simple, yet powerful, and they speak to the universal experience of love. The song is also notable for its catchy melody and driving beat.
Recording and production
“I Can’t Help Myself” was recorded at the Motown Recording Studio in Detroit, Michigan. The song was produced by Holland–Dozier–Holland.
The recording features Levi Stubbs on lead vocals. Stubbs’ vocals are passionate and soulful, and they perfectly convey the emotion of the song. The song’s instrumentation is simple, yet effective, with a driving beat and a catchy melody.
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“I Can’t Help Myself” is a beautiful and moving song that will be cherished for generations to come.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland.
- The song was inspired by Holland–Dozier–Holland’s own experiences with love and heartbreak.
- The song was a critical and commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “I Can’t Help Myself” has been covered by many artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Marvin Gaye.