About The Song
A Soulful Classic: Smokey Robinson’s “Shop Around”
In the realm of soul music, few names resonate with the enduring brilliance of Smokey Robinson. His velvety vocals, poignant songwriting, and masterful production have solidified his legacy as one of the genre’s most influential figures. Among his illustrious catalog of hits, “Shop Around” stands as a timeless gem, captivating audiences for generations with its infectious melody and heartfelt message.
Released in 1960, “Shop Around” marked a turning point in Robinson’s career, propelling him and his group, The Miracles, into the national spotlight. The song’s irresistible groove, courtesy of Robinson’s impeccable songwriting and the Miracles’ tight harmonies, quickly captured the hearts of listeners, topping the Billboard R&B Singles chart and reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Beyond its catchy tune, “Shop Around” resonates deeply with its empowering lyrics. The song chronicles the tale of a determined lover, undeterred by rejection, who persistently seeks affection from their desired partner. Robinson’s emotive vocals infuse the lyrics with a sincerity that resonates with listeners, capturing the universal experience of pursuing love amidst setbacks.
The song’s enduring appeal lies not only in its infectious melody and relatable lyrics but also in its timeless production. Robinson’s masterful arrangement, featuring a driving beat, soulful horns, and lush strings, creates a sonic backdrop that perfectly complements the song’s emotional core. The result is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners across generations.
“Shop Around” has cemented its place in the pantheon of soul music, inspiring countless covers and becoming a staple in the genre’s repertoire. From Marvin Gaye to Michael Jackson, artists have paid homage to Robinson’s masterpiece, each adding their own unique interpretation while preserving the song’s essence.
Smokey Robinson’s “Shop Around” stands as a testament to the power of soul music to transcend time and touch hearts. Its infectious melody, relatable lyrics, and timeless production have earned it a place among the genre’s greatest anthems, ensuring that Robinson’s legacy as a soul music icon will endure for generations to come.
Video
Lyric
🎶Let’s sing along with the lyrics!🎤
When I became of age, my mother called me to her side
She said, “Son, you’re growing up now
Pretty soon you’ll take a bride”
And then she said
Just because you’ve become a young man now
There’s still somethings that you don’t understand now
Before you ask some girl for her hand now
Keep your freedom for as long as you can now
My mama told me, you better shop around (shop, shop around, uh-huh-huh)
Whoa yeah, you better shop around (shop, shop around)
Oh, there’s some things that I want you to know now
Just as sure as the winds gonna blow now
The women come and the women gonna go now
Before you tell ’em that you love ’em so now
My mama told me, you better shop around (shop, shop around, uh-huh-huh)
Whoa yeah, you better shop around (shop, shop around)
Try to get yourself a bargain, son
Don’t be sold on the very first one
Now pretty girls come a dime a dozen
Try to find one who’s gonna give you true loving
Before you take a girl and say “I do” now
Make sure she’s in love with you now
My mama told me, you better shop around
Oh, hey
Try to get yourself a bargain, son
Don’t be sold on the very first one
Pretty girls come a dime a dozen
Try to find one who’s gonna give you true loving
Before you take a girl and say “I do” now
Make sure she’s in love with you now
Make sure that her love is true now
I’d hate to see you feeling sad and blue now
My mama told me, you better shop around (shop, shop around, uh-huh-huh)
Uh-huh, don’t let the first one get you
Oh no, ’cause I don’t wanna see her with you
Uh-huh, before you let her hold you tight
Oh yeah, yeah, make sure she’s alright
Uh-huh, before you let her take your hand, my son
Understand, my son, be a man, my son
I know you can, my son, I love you