About the song
“Ooo Baby Baby” is a timeless ballad that exemplifies the soul and emotional depth characteristic of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Written by Robinson and his fellow Miracle, Pete Moore, the song was released in 1965 under Motown’s Tamla label. This poignant track, featuring Robinson’s signature heartfelt delivery, became a notable hit, reaching number 4 on the Billboard R&B singles chart and number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song’s melancholic tone is underscored by its slow, remorseful lyrics, where Robinson’s lead vocals express a deep sense of regret for a romantic indiscretion and a heartfelt plea for forgiveness. The track is distinguished by its lush orchestral arrangement, which includes a string section and the meticulous background harmonies arranged by Pete Moore. The Funk Brothers provided the instrumental backing, with their dynamic support adding richness to the song’s overall feel. Cash Box described it as “a medium-paced, low-down, pop-R&B ode about an unfortunate gal whose singin’ the blues since she lost her guy,” capturing the essence of the track’s emotional landscape.
The Miracles’ original version of “Ooo Baby Baby” has achieved enduring acclaim, earning a spot at number 266 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” This recognition highlights the song’s lasting impact and the excellence of Robinson’s songwriting and performance.
Over the years, “Ooo Baby Baby” has inspired numerous cover versions across various genres, with artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Todd Rundgren, Linda Ronstadt, and many others putting their unique spin on the classic. Notably, Linda Ronstadt’s 1978 rendition, included on her double-platinum album *Living in the USA*, reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Her version, produced by Peter Asher and featuring a memorable saxophone solo by David Sanborn, further cemented the song’s place in pop culture.
The influence of “Ooo Baby Baby” extends beyond these renditions. John Lennon, a notable fan of Smokey Robinson, reportedly borrowed elements of the song’s emotional expression for The Beatles’ track “I Am the Walrus.” This cross-generational appreciation underscores the song’s significant role in shaping the musical landscape.
Overall, “Ooo Baby Baby” remains a quintessential example of soul music’s power to convey deep emotional truths, with its heartfelt lyrics and lush arrangement continuing to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
Ooh, la-la-la-la
I did you wrong
My heart went out to play
But in the game I lost you
What a price to pay
I’m cryin’
Ooh, baby, baby
Ooh, baby, baby
Mistakes, I know I’ve made a few
But I’m only human
You’ve made mistakes too
I’m cryin’
Ooh, baby, baby
Ooh, baby, baby
I’m just about at the end of my rope
But I can’t stop tryin’, I can’t give up hope
‘Cause I feel that one day I’ll hold you near
Whisper, “I still love you”
Until that day is here
I’m cryin’
Ooh, baby, baby
Ooh, baby, baby
Ooh-ooh, baby, baby
Oo-hoo-ooh, baby, baby
Ooh-ooh