About the song
A true powerhouse combination, wouldn’t you agree? This iconic song, released in 1970, transcended its status as a pop hit to become an anthem of enduring love and unwavering commitment. But to fully appreciate its brilliance, we need to delve a little deeper.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” wasn’t originally intended for Diana Ross. Songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson, fresh faces at Motown Records, penned it in 1966. Their initial vision was a powerful duet, and it was recorded by the legendary Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. Their version, released in 1967, showcased their undeniable chemistry and became a Top 20 hit.
However, Diana Ross, then the lead singer of the Supremes, had her sights on the song too. She initially recorded it with the Supremes, but the magic wasn’t quite there. As fate would have it, after the Supremes disbanded and Diana embarked on her solo career, the opportunity arose again. In 1970, with the success of her debut single “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand),” Ashford & Simpson convinced her to revisit “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – this time, as a solo venture.
This proved to be a golden decision. Diana’s powerful vocals, brimming with soulful conviction, breathed new life into the song. The arrangement, courtesy of the legendary Motown session band The Funk Brothers, was equally inspired. A bed of shimmering strings and a driving percussion section provided the perfect foundation for Diana’s soaring vocals.
But what truly elevates “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is its message. The lyrics, a beautiful call-and-response between Diana and a backing chorus, paint a vivid picture of unwavering devotion. “If you need me, call me/ No matter where you are, no matter how far…” These lines, delivered with Diana’s signature sincerity, resonate deeply. Love, the song declares, conquers all. No obstacle, no matter how daunting, can stand in the way of two hearts truly connected.
The impact of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” was undeniable. It skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming Diana’s first solo number one hit. The song’s infectious energy and empowering message transcended genres and generations. It became a fixture in wedding ceremonies, graduation parties, and any occasion that called for a dose of unwavering optimism.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is more than just a pop song. It’s a testament to the enduring power of love, the brilliance of Diana Ross’s vocal delivery, and the timeless artistry of Motown Records. It’s a song that continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this very day.
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Lyrics
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”
No matter where you are
No matter how far
Just call my name
I’ll be there in a hurry
On that you can depend and never worry
No wind, (no wind)
No rain, (no rain)
Nor winter’s cold
Can stop me, babe
(Oh, babe) baby (baby)
If you’re my goal
No wind, (no wind)
No rain, (no rain)
Can stop me, babe
If you wanna go
I know, I know you must follow the sun
Wherever it leads
But remember
If you should fall short of your desires
Remember life holds for you one guarantee
You’ll always have me
And if you should miss my lovin
One of these old days
If you should ever miss the arms
That used to hold you so close, or the lips
That used to touch you so tenderly
Just remember what I told you
The day I set you free
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
Ain’t no river wild enough
To keep me from you
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
(Say it again)
Ain’t no river wild enough
To keep me from you
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Nothing can keep me
Keep me from you
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
(Say it again)
Ain’t no river wild enough
To keep me from you
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Nothing can keep me
To keep me from you