Diana Ross & The Supremes – Someday We’ll Be Together

About the song

“Someday We’ll Be Together” by Diana Ross & The Supremes is a poignant and soulful farewell track that marked the end of an era for one of the most successful girl groups in music history. Released in 1969, this song was the final single released by the Supremes with Diana Ross as the lead singer before she embarked on her solo career. It became an enduring classic, known for its emotional depth and the signature Motown sound.

The song was written by Johnny Bristol, Jackey Beavers, and Harvey Fuqua. Originally recorded by Johnny & Jackey in 1961, it was reimagined for Diana Ross & The Supremes by Motown’s production team. The lyrics express a hopeful message of reunion and enduring love, with the narrator expressing confidence that they will one day be reunited with their loved one. This theme of separation and hope resonated with audiences, particularly during a time of social change and upheaval.

Musically, “Someday We’ll Be Together” is distinguished by its lush orchestration and smooth, soulful arrangement. The song features a gentle, steady rhythm, rich string arrangements, and a prominent bass line, all hallmarks of the classic Motown sound. The instrumental backing was provided by Motown’s legendary house band, The Funk Brothers, who played a crucial role in shaping the sound of countless Motown hits.

Diana Ross’s vocal performance on the track is both tender and commanding. Her delivery captures the emotional nuance of the song, blending a sense of melancholy with a hopeful outlook. Notably, Ross was the only member of the Supremes to perform on this track; the background vocals were provided by Johnny Bristol, Maxine Waters, and Julia Waters, rather than her usual bandmates Mary Wilson and Cindy Birdsong. This decision reflected the group’s transition and the impending launch of Ross’s solo career.

“Someday We’ll Be Together” was a significant commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. It was the Supremes’ twelfth and final number-one hit on the Hot 100, capping a remarkable run of success during the 1960s. The song also marked the end of an era for Motown as the label’s focus began to shift towards a new generation of artists and styles.

The track’s legacy has endured far beyond its initial release. It remains a beloved classic, frequently featured in retrospectives of Motown’s golden era. The song has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be celebrated for its timeless message and beautiful arrangement.

In conclusion, Diana Ross & The Supremes‘ “Someday We’ll Be Together” is a significant piece of music history, symbolizing both an ending and a new beginning. With its heartfelt lyrics, rich Motown production, and Diana Ross’s emotive vocals, the song stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Supremes and the lasting impact of Motown Records.

Video

Lyrics

“Someday We’ll Be Together”
(originally by Diana Ross & the Supremes)