The Supremes – Tears of Sorrow

About the song

“Tears of Sorrow” by The Supremes is a soulful and poignant track that stands as a testament to the group’s influence in shaping the sound of the 1960s. Released in 1965, this song was part of their album “More Hits by The Supremes”, which marked another pivotal moment in the band’s career. The Supremes, led by the iconic Diana Ross, had already achieved considerable success by this time, becoming the most commercially successful act from Motown Records. With “Tears of Sorrow,” they delved deeper into the themes of love, heartbreak, and emotional vulnerability, demonstrating their versatility and depth as artists.

The song itself is a powerful ballad that explores the pain of a broken heart. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and grief, expressing the sorrow of a love lost and the emotional torment that follows. This was not just another love song for The Supremes; it was a reflection on the more somber and painful side of relationships, showcasing their ability to tackle complex emotions through music. The melody, coupled with the soulful harmonies of The Supremes, amplifies the heartache expressed in the lyrics, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere that resonates with listeners on a deep level.

In terms of social impact, “Tears of Sorrow” contributed to the ongoing cultural shift of the 1960s, a period that was marked by significant social and political change. The song’s poignant portrayal of emotional vulnerability offered a contrast to the upbeat and glamorous image often associated with pop culture at the time. The Supremes, with their polished performances and impeccable vocal abilities, became role models for many young women, particularly African American women, who saw in them a reflection of both beauty and strength. While the track itself wasn’t as commercially successful as some of their other hits, it added depth to the group’s legacy and reinforced their place in the pantheon of 1960s pop and soul music.

The song also played a role in reinforcing the notion that music could be a vehicle for emotional expression, something that resonated with audiences far beyond the United States. It spoke to the universal experience of heartbreak and the catharsis that music can provide in moments of personal sorrow. The Supremes’ ability to capture the complexity of human emotions in their music made them more than just entertainers; they became voices of empathy and understanding for their listeners.

Ultimately, “Tears of Sorrow” is more than just a ballad. It’s a reflection of a time when music and culture were deeply intertwined, and artists like The Supremes helped bridge personal experience with societal shifts. The song remains a beautiful example of the lasting power of soulful storytelling and vocal artistry, ensuring The Supremes‘ place in the annals of music history.

Video

Lyrics

chorus

Tears of sorrow

Ripe for tomorrow

I’ll just have to cry again

So why wait till then?

verse

All my happiness

Gone and I guess

I’ll just have to be alone

Till you come back home

verse

The day you left me

I just had too much pride

To call you back to me

Now all I do is cry

chorus

Tears of sorrow (tears of sorrow)

Ripe for tomorrow (ripe for tomorrow)

I’ll just have to cry again (cry again)

So why should I wait till then?

chorus

Tears of sorrow

Ripe for tomorrow

I’ll just have to cry again

So why should I wait till then?

verse

All my happiness

Gone and I guess

I’ll just have to be alone

Till you come back home

verse

The day you left me

I just had too much pride

To call you back to me

Now all I do is cry

chorus

Tears of sorrow (tears of sorrow)

Ripe for tomorrow (ripe for tomorrow)

I’ll just have to cry again (cry again)

So why should I wait till then?

outro

Tears of sorrow (come on, come on)

Ripe for tomorrow (please, baby please)

I’ll just have to cry again…

Writer(s): Richard T. Morris, Robert West