About the song
**”You Can’t Hurry Love”** stands as one of the quintessential tracks of the 1960s, embodying the spirit and innovation of Motown. Originally recorded by The Supremes and released on July 25, 1966, this song exemplifies the transition from the group’s earlier teen-pop hits to a more mature and nuanced sound. As the second single from their album *The Supremes A’ Go-Go*, “You Can’t Hurry Love” became an emblematic example of Motown’s musical prowess and the Supremes’ evolving artistry.
Written and produced by the iconic Motown team Holland–Dozier–Holland, the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for two weeks, marking the Supremes’ seventh number-one hit. It also achieved notable success internationally, making the top five in the UK and top ten in Australia. This single’s success was bolstered by its vibrant production and compelling lyrics, which revolve around the universal theme of patience in love. The song’s memorable hook, inspired by Dorothy Love Coates’s gospel tune “(You Can’t Hurry God) He’s Right on Time,” reflects the strong influence of gospel music on R&B and soul.
The Supremes’ version of the song, characterized by its infectious rhythm and dynamic arrangement, was praised for its lively instrumental backing and powerful vocal performance. Billboard described it as “the group’s most exciting side to date,” while Cash Box hailed it as a “pulsating pop-R&B rhythmic ode,” and Record World noted its “wonderful and happy-sounding” quality. The song’s success cemented its place as a defining Motown hit and a standout track for The Supremes.
In 1983, the song saw a resurgence when Phil Collins covered it, turning it into a UK number-one hit for two weeks. His version also charted in the US, reaching number ten on the Billboard Hot 100, introducing the classic track to a new generation.
“You Can’t Hurry Love” is recognized not only as one of The Supremes’ signature songs but also as a significant piece in the history of popular music. It is included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s permanent collection of 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, underscoring its enduring impact. Additionally, the song was so influential that it was even recorded in Italian under the title “L’amore verrà” (“Love Will Come”), showcasing its broad appeal and timeless charm.
The track is a testament to the artistry of The Supremes and the genius of Holland–Dozier–Holland, continuing to resonate with audiences and influence artists long after its original release.
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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
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