Introduction
Released in late 1964, “Come See About Me” became the third consecutive #1 hit for The Supremes, cementing their status as the leading girl group of the decade. With its soulful emotion, subtle gospel influences, and sleek Motown production, this song not only resonated with fans but also showcased the group’s growing artistic maturity. In this post, we explore why “Come See About Me” remains a beloved classic in soul and pop music history.
Background: Motown’s Hit Machine Rolls On
By the time “Come See About Me” hit the airwaves, The Supremes had already conquered the charts with “Where Did Our Love Go” and “Baby Love.” Backed once again by the powerhouse songwriting/production team of Holland–Dozier–Holland, this track was the next step in their meteoric rise.
The song was recorded at Hitsville U.S.A., Motown’s iconic studio in Detroit, and featured the Funk Brothers on instrumentation—Motown’s trusted house band responsible for countless hits.
The Song’s Emotional Core
“Come See About Me” is a plea for reconnection—an emotional cry wrapped in a deceptively upbeat rhythm. Diana Ross delivers the lyrics with controlled vulnerability, supported by the lush harmonies of Florence Ballard and Mary Wilson. The result is a song that sounds joyous on the surface but carries deep emotional resonance.
🎵 “I’ve been crying ’cause I’m lonely (for you) / Smiles have all turned to tears…”
This blending of melancholy and melody became a trademark of The Supremes’ best work and helped “Come See About Me” stand out even in an era full of musical gems.
Chart Success and Influence
Released in November 1964, the song climbed to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 by December—making The Supremes the first all-female group to have three consecutive #1 singles in the United States.
“Come See About Me” crossed racial and regional boundaries, becoming a hit not only on R&B stations but also on mainstream pop radio. Its success reflected the growing cultural impact of Motown and its artists on the American mainstream.
A TV Milestone
The Supremes famously performed “Come See About Me” on The Ed Sullivan Show in December 1964. Their elegant presentation, synchronized choreography, and poised demeanor helped further establish their public image as America’s sweethearts—and proved that a Black girl group could command prime-time television with style and grace.
Legacy and Covers
Over the years, “Come See About Me” has been covered by a wide range of artists, from Junior Walker & the All Stars to Shakin’ Stevens. Yet none have matched the intimacy and subtle strength of the original. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its emotional honesty and polished production—hallmarks of the Motown sound.
Why It Still Resonates
“Come See About Me” isn’t just a hit—it’s a touchstone of pop-soul. It captures a moment when Motown was hitting its creative stride, and when The Supremes were transforming from rising stars to pop royalty.
Its message—yearning, love, and vulnerability—remains universal. And thanks to its irresistible groove, it continues to be played, sampled, and celebrated by new generations of listeners.
Fun Facts
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The Supremes performed this song twice on The Ed Sullivan Show within just a few weeks—an unusual feat at the time.
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The single was almost simultaneously released by both The Supremes and a rival group, Nella Dodds, but Motown’s version quickly dominated the charts.
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It’s one of the early pop songs to feature a fade-in intro, something rarely done in recordings at the time.
Conclusion
“Come See About Me” by The Supremes is more than just a chart-topping hit—it’s a soulful masterpiece that highlights the group’s emotional range, vocal talent, and cultural importance. A shining example of Motown magic, it continues to move hearts and fill dance floors, decades after its release.
Lyrics: Come See About Me
I’ve been crying (ooh, ooh)
‘Cause I’m lonely (for you)
Smiles have all turned (to tears)
But tears won’t wash away the fearsThat you’re never ever gonna return
To ease the fire that within me burns
It keeps me crying baby for you
Keeps me sighin’ baby for youSo won’t you hurry
Come on boy, see about me
(Come see about me)
See about you baby
(Come see about me)I’ve given up my friends just for you
My friends are gone and you have too
No peace shall I find
Until you come back and be mineNo matter what you do or say
I’m gonna love you anyway
Keep on crying baby for you
I’m gonna keep sighin’ baby for youSo come on hurry
Come on and see about me
(Come see about me)
See about you baby
(Come see about me)Sometime’s up (ooh, ooh)
Sometime’s down (ooh, ooh)
My life’s so uncertain (ooh, ooh)
With you not around (ooh, ooh)From my arms you maybe out of reach
But my heart says you’re here to keep
Keeps me crying baby for you
Keep on, keep on crying baby for youSo won’t you hurry
Come on boy, see about me
(Come see about me)
See about you baby
(Come see about me)You know I’m so lonely
(Come see about me)
I love you only
(Come see about me)See about your baby
(Come see about me)
Hurry, hurry
(Come see about me)
