About the song
“Save the Overtime (For Me)” is a soulful track by the legendary Gladys Knight & The Pips, a group renowned for their heartfelt performances and smooth harmonies. Released in 1983, this song is part of their album “Visions,” which showcased the group’s versatility and ability to blend contemporary sounds with their classic soul roots.
The song was composed by Michael Masser and Gerry Goffin, two prolific figures in the music industry. Masser, known for his work with artists like Diana Ross and Whitney Houston, and Goffin, a renowned lyricist who collaborated with Carole King, brought their expertise to create a track that resonated deeply with audiences.
“Save the Overtime (For Me)” enjoyed significant success on the charts. It reached the number one spot on the Billboard R&B chart, marking a triumphant return for Gladys Knight & The Pips. This achievement underscored the group’s enduring appeal and ability to adapt to the evolving musical landscape of the 1980s. The song’s infectious groove and relatable lyrics about prioritizing love over work struck a chord with listeners, making it a favorite on radio stations and in nightclubs.
“Visions,” the album featuring this hit, was a critical and commercial success. It demonstrated the group’s ability to innovate while staying true to their soulful origins. The album also included other notable tracks like “You’re Number One (In My Book)” and “Hero (Wing Beneath My Wings),” further solidifying its place in the hearts of fans.
Gladys Knight & The Pips, consisting of Gladys Knight, her brother Merald “Bubba” Knight, and cousins Edward Patten and William Guest, had already established themselves as a formidable force in the music industry by the time “Save the Overtime (For Me)” was released. Their career, spanning several decades, saw them produce numerous hits that have become timeless classics.
“Save the Overtime (For Me)” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the group’s ability to connect with their audience through relatable themes and captivating melodies. Its success on the charts and its lasting impact on fans highlight the enduring legacy of Gladys Knight & The Pips in the realm of soul and R&B music.
Video
Lyrics
Darling, don’t stay too long
Pretty baby, I know you’re working hard for me
Darling, don’t stay away too long
Pretty baby, save the overtime for me
I walk around, tryin’ to find something to do
Baby, until your return
Turn on TV or play some solitaire
It does the job for a while
But nothing takes the place of you
Just ain’t no substitute
‘Cause you’re all that I want in me
Only you can set me free
Darling, don’t stay too long
Pretty baby, I know you’re working hard for me
Darling, don’t stay away too long
Pretty baby, save the overtime for me
My love starts to come down hard on me
And I just can’t find no relief, no
Only until I see your face again
I’m gonna be in such misery
Runnin’ to the door, peepin’ out the window
Hopin’ to see only you
Listen for the phone, checkin’ out the tick tock
Countin’ if it’s a certain time
Hear me now, five, four, three, two, one
Darling, don’t stay away too long
Pretty baby, I know you’re working hard for me
Darling, baby, don’t stay away too long
Pretty baby, save the overtime for me, for me
Baby, baby, save the overtime
Save the overtime
I know you have your eight hours to do
But it just don’t feel good without ya
Oh, how I’m missing you, oh, feelin’ blue
I know it’s crazy, but I, I walk around
Tryin’ to find something else to do
Pretty baby, until your return
Turnin’ on the TV, or play some solitaire
Does the job for a while
Find yourself runnin’ to the door
Peepin’ out the window, hopin’ to see only you
Listen for the phone, checkin’ out the clock
Countin’ if it’s a certain time
Hear me now, five, four, three, two, one
Darling, don’t stay away too long
Pretty baby, I know you’re working hard for me
Darling, don’t stay away too long
Pretty baby, save the overtime for me
Darling, don’t stay too long
Pretty baby, I know you’re working hard for me
Darling, don’t stay away too long