About the song
“Stop! In the Name of Love,” performed by The Supremes on *Ready Steady Go!* in 1965, is an iconic representation of the group’s influence on the pop and soul music landscape of the 1960s. This vibrant television performance underscores the extraordinary talent of The Supremes and their significant contribution to the Motown sound.
The Supremes, comprised of Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard, were at the pinnacle of their success when “Stop! In the Name of Love” was released. The song, which is a standout track from their album *More Hits by The Supremes* (1965), perfectly captures the essence of the Motown era with its catchy melody and compelling lyrical content. Written by the acclaimed songwriting team Holland-Dozier-Holland, the song features a blend of pop and soul that became a hallmark of The Supremes’ sound.
“Stop! In the Name of Love” is known for its infectious chorus and powerful vocal performance by Diana Ross. The song’s lyrics express a plea for a lover to reconsider their actions, encapsulating a mix of drama and emotional appeal that resonated with many listeners. The performance on *Ready Steady Go!*, a popular British music television show, highlighted the group’s stage presence and synchronized choreography, which became a signature of their live shows.
Upon its release, “Stop! In the Name of Love” achieved remarkable chart success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Billboard R&B chart. This success further solidified The Supremes’ position as one of the most prominent and influential female groups of the era. The song’s widespread popularity and enduring appeal are a testament to its memorable composition and the group’s exceptional ability to connect with audiences.
The performance of “Stop! In the Name of Love” on *Ready Steady Go!* remains a memorable moment in the history of pop music, showcasing The Supremes’ impact on the genre and their significant role in shaping the Motown sound. Released in 1965, the song’s success on the charts and its enduring popularity highlight The Supremes’ remarkable talent and their lasting influence on popular music.
In summary, “Stop! In the Name of Love” by The Supremes, performed on *Ready Steady Go!* in 1965, is a quintessential example of 1960s Motown music. The song’s chart-topping success and its vibrant performance underscore the group’s remarkable contribution to the music industry and their enduring legacy in pop and soul music.
Video
Lyrics
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Baby, baby I’m aware of where you go
Each time you leave my door
I watch you walk down the street
Knowing your other love you’ll meet
But this time before you run to her
Leaving me alone and hurt
(Think it over) After I’ve been good to you
(Think it over) After I’ve been sweet to you
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Think it over
Think it over
I’ve known of your
Your secluded nights
I’ve even seen her
Maybe once or twice
But is her sweet expression
Worth more than my love and affection
But this time before you leave my arms
And rush off to her charms
(Think it over) Haven’t I been good to you
(Think it over) Haven’t I been sweet to you
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Think it over
Think it over
I’ve tried so hard, hard to be patient
Hoping you’d stop this infatuation
But each time you are together
I’m so afraid I’ll be losing you forever
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love
Before you break my heart
Stop! In the name of love