About the song
“I Can’t Help Myself” stands as an iconic Motown classic, immortalized by the Four Tops in 1965 under the meticulous production of Holland-Dozier-Holland. This chart-topping single not only defined the sound of Motown in the 1960s but also cemented the Four Tops’ status as one of the era’s most beloved vocal groups.
Written and produced by Motown’s powerhouse team, Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Edward Holland, Jr., “I Can’t Help Myself” showcases the irresistible charm and vocal prowess of lead singer Levi Stubbs. The song swiftly captured the hearts of listeners with its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, exemplifying the signature Motown sound that blended soulful vocals with energetic instrumentation.
Upon its release, “I Can’t Help Myself” ascended to the top of both the Billboard R&B chart, where it reigned for an impressive nine weeks, and the Hot 100 chart, where it claimed the No. 1 position for two non-consecutive weeks in June 1965. Its success was a testament to the group’s ability to deliver soul-stirring performances coupled with the songwriting genius of Holland-Dozier-Holland.
The composition itself finds Stubbs passionately declaring his love: “Sugar pie, honey bunch/I’m weaker than a man should be!/Can’t help myself/I’m a fool in love, you see.” Backed by the harmonies of Abdul “Duke” Fakir, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, Lawrence Payton, and the Andantes, the song resonated universally with its relatable themes of love and vulnerability.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, “I Can’t Help Myself” became not only the Four Tops’ first top 40 single in the UK but also a perennial favorite among Motown enthusiasts worldwide. Its enduring appeal is underscored by its inclusion in Rolling Stone magazine’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, solidifying its place in music history.
The song’s impact transcends generations, evidenced by its frequent covers and appearances in various media, including television commercials. In 2019, Applebee’s featured “I Can’t Help Myself” in a memorable advertisement, reaffirming its timeless appeal and cultural significance.
With its irresistible blend of soulful vocals, infectious melody, and heartfelt lyrics, “I Can’t Help Myself” remains a cherished classic that continues to captivate audiences and define the golden era of Motown music.
Video
Lyrics
Ooh, sugar pie, honey bunch
You know that I love you
I Can’t Help Myself
I love you and nobody else
In and out my life (In and out my life)
You come and you go (You come and you go)
Leaving just your picture behind (Ooh)
And I’ve kissed it a thousand times (Ooh)
When you snap your finger or wink your eye
I come a-running to you
I’m tied to your apron strings
And there’s nothing that I can do, ooh
I Can’t Help Myself
No, I Can’t Help Myself
‘Cause sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
I’m weaker than a man should be
I can’t help myself
I’m a fool in love, you see
Wanna tell you I don’t love you
Tell you that we’re through, and I tried
But every time I see your face (Can’t help myself)
I get all choked up inside
When I call your name
Girl, it starts to flame (Burning in my heart, tearing it all apart)
No matter how I try
My love, I cannot hide
‘Cause sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
You know that I’m waiting for you (Waiting for you)
Can’t Help Myself
I love you and nobody else, ooh
Sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
Do anything you ask me to (Ask me to)
Can’t Help Myself
I want you and nobody else, ooh
Sugar pie, honey bunch (Sugar pie, honey bunch)
You know that I love you (Love you)
Can’t Help Myself
No, I can’t help myself, ooh
qwerty