This is the peerless match of the Four Tops’ vocal might, commanded by Levi Stubbs, with the emerging firepower of Holland/Dozier/Holland. Together, they can’t help themselves.
The Four Tops’ Second Album was released in November 1965. After 11 years together they found their groove with Motown’s top writing / production team of Holland/Dozier/Holland and produced their first Top 20 album on the pop charts.
The union with H/D/H starts blazing a trail. “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),” becomes the Tops’ first No. 1 record and a hit overseas, followed by “It’s The Same Old Song,” “Something About You” and “Shake Me, Wake Me (When It’s Over).” Levi’s voice, fronting the harmonies of his three companions and those of studio sirens the Andantes, is a new asset for Motown, amplified by the magic of its studio musicians, the Funk Brothers.
“That album brought a lot of people to Detroit to find out what this Motown thing was all about.” – Lamont Dozier
Enjoy the video which celebrates this classic album, and cast your vote below if you think that Second Album should be crowned as Motown’s best-ever album.
Voting is open until May 27, and you can share your details to be entered into a prize draw for some limited-edition vinyl.
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