About the song
Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose‘s “Too Late to Turn Back Now” is a quintessential soul-pop hit from the early 1970s that captures the bliss and commitment of falling deeply in love. Released in 1972, this song became the group’s biggest hit and is celebrated for its smooth melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and impeccable vocal harmonies.
Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose was a family vocal group from Dania, Florida, consisting of siblings Carter Cornelius, Eddie Cornelius, Rose Cornelius, and, for a time, their sister Billie Jo Cornelius. They were known for their rich harmonies and a blend of soul, pop, and rhythm and blues, which allowed them to appeal to a wide audience. The group achieved significant success in the early 1970s, with “Too Late to Turn Back Now” standing as a testament to their talent.
The song was written by Eddie Cornelius, one of the group members, and produced by the renowned production duo Mike Norfleet and Bob Archibald. The lyrics describe the narrator’s realization that they’ve fallen deeply in love, with the chorus expressing the pivotal moment of acceptance: “It’s too late to turn back now, I believe, I believe, I believe I’m falling in love.” The song’s narrative is a joyful confession of surrendering to love’s overwhelming power, even if it was initially unexpected or surprising.
Musically, “Too Late to Turn Back Now” features a polished arrangement that blends elements of soul and pop. The song begins with a gentle, yet catchy piano riff that sets the tone, followed by lush string arrangements that add a rich, orchestral feel. The rhythm section, marked by a steady bass line and crisp drumming, provides a danceable groove that complements the song’s uplifting message.
The vocal performance is one of the standout aspects of the track. Eddie Cornelius delivers the lead vocals with a warm and earnest tone, conveying the sincerity of the lyrics. The harmonies provided by the other group members, especially Rose Cornelius, enhance the song’s emotional depth and create a lush, full sound. The interplay between lead and background vocals adds a dynamic quality to the song, making it engaging and memorable.
“Too Late to Turn Back Now” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the R&B chart. The song’s success was not limited to the United States; it also found a receptive audience internationally. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal theme of love and the emotional honesty conveyed in both the lyrics and the performance.
The song has been covered by various artists and remains a staple on classic soul playlists. It continues to be a favorite for its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and the warmth of the Cornelius family’s vocal harmonies. The track’s enduring popularity underscores the group’s impact on the soul and pop music scenes of the 1970s.
In summary, Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose‘s “Too Late to Turn Back Now” is a soulful and heartfelt anthem of falling in love. With its smooth vocals, rich instrumentation, and memorable melody, the song captures the joyous inevitability of embracing love and remains a cherished classic in the annals of soul music.
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Lyrics
**[Chorus]**
It’s too late to turn back now
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
**[Verse 1]**
I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
**[Verse 2]**
It’s too late to turn back now
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
**[Chorus]**
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
**[Bridge]**
I’ve been around, oh, too long
I’ve been around, oh, too long
**[Chorus]**
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
**[Verse 3]**
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now
**[Outro]**
It’s too late to turn back now
I believe, I believe, I believe, I believe
It’s too late to turn back now