Reading Time: 20 min read

13 GIVE Songs Where It’s Giving Greatness (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Helena Lopes from Pexels; Gordon Johnson from Pixabay]13 GIVE Songs Where It’s Giving Greatness features songs by Artemas, Bon Jovi, Chappell Roan, George Benson, New Radicals, and Tracy Chapman.

“So, take it like a taker / ‘Cause, baby, I’m a GIVER.”
Noted, Chappell Roan! Another fantastic female musician, Tracy Chapman, asserts, “GIVE me one reason to stay here / And I’ll turn right back around.” From a male perspective, Bon Jovi, specifically Jon Bon Jovi, proclaims, “Shot through the heart and you’re to blame / Darling, you GIVE love a bad name.” The common thread between Chappell Roan, Tracy Chapman, and Bon Jovi is some form of the word GIVE! 13 GIVE Songs Where It’s Giving Greatness serves as the sequel to What Do These 13 Songs Give? (2023). The premise is simple: all songs must feature some form of the word give in their title.  Give, given, giver, giving, and gimme are all acceptable. 13 GIVE Songs Where It’s Giving Greatness features songs by Artemas, Bon Jovi, Chappell Roan, George Benson, New Radicals, and Tracy Chapman. So, without further ado, let the GIVING commence!


~ Table of Contents ~

1. Artemas, “baby give me more” (Ft. Mareux)

Artemas, LOVERCORE [📷: Artemas]

2. Chappell Roan, “The Giver”

Chappell Roan, The Giver [📷: Amusement / KRA International Inc. / Island]

3. Bon Jovi, “You Give Love a Bad Name”

Bon Jovi, Slippery When Wet [📷: Mercury / UMG Recordings, Inc.]

4. David Archuleta, “Give You the World”

David Archuleta, Earthly Delights (EP) [📷: Archie Music]

5. Anthony Hamilton, “Never Give Up”

Anthony Hamilton, Southern Comfort [📷: Tappy Whyte’s Music / Merovingian Music Ltd.]

6. AxCx, “I’m Gonna Give You AIDS”

AxCx, Fuckin' A [📷: Wicked Sick]

7. Jordan Knight,  “Give It To You”Jordan Knight, Jordan Knight [📷: UMG Recordings Inc.]

8. New Radicals, “You Get What You Give”

New Radicals, Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too [📷: UMG Recordings, Inc.]

9. Tracy Chapman, “Give Me One Reason”

Tracy Chapman, New Beginning [📷: Elektra Entertainment]

10. George Benson, “Give Me the Night”

George Benson, Give Me the Night [📷: Warner Records Inc.]

11. Marvin Gaye, “Got To Give It Up”

Marvin Gaye, Every Great Motown Hit of Marvin Gaye [📷: Motown]

12. Jerry Butler, “Never Give You Up”

Jerry Butler, The Ice Man Cometh [📷: UMG Recordings, Inc.]

13. Mary Mary, “Can’t Give Up Now”

Mary Mary, Thankful [📷: Columbia]

 


1. Artemas, “baby give me more” (Ft. Mareux)

LOVERCORE » Artemas » 2025

Artemas, LOVERCORE [📷: Artemas]

“Take me out tonight / Emily, you rule my mind,”
Artemas (Artemas Diamandis, b. 1999) asserts in the intro and eventual bridge of “baby give me more”.  He continues, “Release your sweet divine / And if you’re not religious / I want you to euthanize me.” Euthanize? Wow 😮! Gen-Z musicians just hit differently, don’t they? “Baby give me more” is the seventh track from Diamandis’ third mixtape, LOVERCORE.  Artemas, featured guest Mareux (Aryan Ashtiani, b. 1992), and Daintree penned “baby” while Artemas and Daintree produced it.  Like many an Artemas track, desire is potent to the nth degree.

Mareux assists with the sexiness of this LOVERCORE highlight.  In the memorable chorus, twice he sings, “Baby, give me more,” and adds, “If your heart is in your hips / Baby, give me more.” Heart in your hips, huh? Now that’s a line! Artemas is dramatic and indulgent in the first verse, consumed by her: “I can’t relieve myself / Only you can touch me right / You don’t even have to try.” Hmm, by relieving yourself, dude, are you… You know… Moving on.  Mareux brings the spice to the pre-chorus, once again, mentioning heart in hips, as well as “Stroke your body from the floor, biting on your lips.” 😈 Of course, you knew Artemas wasn’t going to allow Mareux all of the naughty lines.  Also, you knew he wasn’t going without dropping a few f-bombs, either.  “I want you on top, in my face / Now we’re living babe, now we’re fucking living, babe,” he sings in the second verse.  Added to the mix are pills, tripping, and an unrecognizable Artemas, who informs us, “My heart can’t take rejection anymore, anymore.” “Baby give me more” is not only dark lyrically, but it also features a dark musical backdrop. It is set in a minor key, the synths are enigmatic, hypnotic, and mesmerizing, while the beat provides a firm anchor. All said and done, the intriguing and talented Artemas and Mareux do the damn thing on “baby give me more”. It’s a surefire vibe.

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~ Table of Contents ~

2. Chappell Roan, “The Giver”

“The Giver” » Amusement / KRA International Inc. / Island » 2025

Chappell Roan, The Giver [📷: Amusement / KRA International Inc. / Island]

“And other boys may need a map / But I can close my eyes / And have you wrapped around my fingers like that.”
Oh, snap, Chappell Roan (Kayleigh Rose Amstutz)! The Grammy-winning pop singer/songwriter has been open about her queerness early on in her career. “The Giver” is no exception, where she expresses her sexual expertise to the same sex, unlike boys, who “may need a map.” It is a clever lyric from the first verse.  Amstutz penned “The Giver” alongside Daniel Nigro and Paul Cartwright. Nigro produced the track.

“‘Cause you ain’t got to tell me / It’s just in my nature,” Chappell Roan asserts in the chorus, the centerpiece of “The Giver.” She continues, “So, take it like a taker / ‘Cause, baby, I’m a giver /… Ain’t no country boy quitter / I get the job done.” Damn! The sexual innuendo is ripe throughout “The Giver.” In the second verse, she sings, “Good luck finding a man who has the means / To rhinestone cowgirl all night long.”  Roan is referencing the famous Glen Campbell (1936 – 2017) classic, “Rhinestone Cowboy”, and the sexual position, cowgirl.  Wow! Amstutz delivers a strong vocal performance throughout “The Giver”. Fittingly, the record has country music cues (fiddle, banjo), which match the various country/ country music references.  Also, like many country male musicians, Chappell is confident about her ability to woo the ladies. “The Giver” marks another entertaining, high-flying joint from Chappell Roan.

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~ Table of Contents ~

3. Bon Jovi, “You Give Love a Bad Name”

Slippery When Wet » Mercury / UMG Recordings, Inc. » 1986

Bon Jovi, Slippery When Wet [📷: Mercury / UMG Recordings, Inc.]

“Shot through the heart and you’re to blame / Darling, you give love a bad name.”
Ask yourself this question: Is there any need to say more about this Bon Jovi staple? The answer should be a resounding NO. “You Give Love a Bad Name” speaks for itself. The opening lyric, which eventually becomes part of the chorus, is iconic and never grows old.  Jon Bon Jovi and company secured one of the most memorable records – rock or any genre –  of the 1980s with “You Give Love a Bad Name.” It was written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Desmond Child. Bruce Fairbairn produced the number one Billboard Hot 100 hit from their diamond-certified album, Slippery When Wet.  

The premise of “You Give Love a Bad Name” is simple. The love, which seemed promising, is toxic.  “An angel’s smile is what you sell,” Bon Jovi sings in the first verse, continuing, “You promised me heaven, then put me through hell.” Damn! In the second verse, he describes her as “A school boy’s dream, you act so shy / Your very first kiss was your first kiss goodbye.” My, oh my! Also, worth noting, Jon calls her “a loaded gun” and “there’s nowhere to run.” He sounds terrific, executing the memorable melodies like a – wait for it – rock star! Bon Jovi as a band kills it as well, rocking hard. Among the most noteworthy instrumental moments is the guitar solo by Sambora that precedes the outgoing chorus. “You Give Love a Bad Name” is the sugar-honey iced tea. It is one of the best from the legendary Grammy-winning band.

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~ Table of Contents ~

4. David Archuleta, “Give You the World”

Earthly Delights (EP) » Archie Music » 2025

David Archuleta, Earthly Delights (EP) [📷: Archie Music]

“You can have my body on a Friday night / You can hold me like I’ll be yours the rest of your life,”
the dashing 😍 short king David Archuleta sings on the adult contemporary pop-tinged opener from his EP, Earthly Delights, “Give You the World”. This self-written, self-deprecating love-oriented song opens sparsely, with driving rhythmic guitars fueling Archie’s fire. Archuleta’s vocals are impeccable.  His tone is warm, and he sings with ease.  As the record progresses, the piano enters the mix, filling in the accompaniment. During the chorus, the sound becomes even fuller yet never overwhelming. Archuleta elevates his game during the chorus, asserting, “I would let you be skin on my skin / But I’d be damned if you ever get in.” Why, David? Because “Staying in love isn’t one of my strengths / You should know before we get too far / I could give you the world, but I’ll never give you my heart.” Ooh-wee! Notably, the brief second verse features fuller production from the start. While Archie does the heavy lifting, background vocals accentuate the song.  Archie also delivers great ad-libs and riffing towards the end of the track. All in all, “Give You the World” is a radiant, well-rounded opener that sets the tone on Earthly Delights.

~ Table of Contents ~

5. Anthony Hamilton, “Never Give Up”

Southern Comfort » Tappy Whyte’s Music / Merovingian Music Ltd. » 2007

Anthony Hamilton, Southern Comfort [📷: Tappy Whyte’s Music / Merovingian Music Ltd.]

“Our Father / Who art in heaven / Hear my cry / Hear my cry / Now.”
Anthony Hamilton commences “Never Give Up” with a petition to God.  When you can’t talk to anybody else about adversity, trials, and tribulations, there is one person who is always there, who’ll hear your cry.  Throughout the verses of this highlight from Hamilton’s 2007 compilation album, Southern Comfort, he paints a bleak picture. Clearly, things are bad. He commences the first verse, singing, “Been touched again, rain on me / Down on my luck, got chains on me,” continuing, “I lost a job to gain a child / The road is long, but I’m losing time.” Life can be tough, something Anthony illustrates vividly on “Never Give Up.”

There is more misfortune throughout “Never Give Up.” In the second verse, Hamilton sings, “Baby June is off to war / While his little girl’s just turned four / No birthday cakes, no candles lit / Just a photo of his family in his wallet.” Despite the hardships and pain, on behalf of the characters in the scenarios he sings about, Hamilton looks to the Hills in the chorus, the centerpiece:

“Never let me give up

I can’t stop trying

I can’t stop crying

To water the flowers to make me smile

Never let me give up

‘Cause I’ve got a family

And with all the strength in me

It won’t let me give up.”   

To reiterate, life is hard – it can break you down. Still, it is important not to give up despite adversity, even when it feels like it might be easier to give up.  It is important to stay strong and, like Anthony Hamilton on “Never Give Up”, stay prayed up. The Grammy winner and Cedric Solomon (co-writer and producer) nailed it on this soulful joint!

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6. AxCx, “I’m Gonna Give You AIDS”

AxCx » Fuckin’ A » Wicked Sick » 2011

AxCx, Fuckin' A [📷: Wicked Sick]

“I’m gonna give you AIDS.”
Oh, boy… more like, oh, shit! That is some type of chorus… When your band name is Anal Cunt (stylized as AxCx), you live on the edge 😳. That is an understatement. C-U-N-T almost always has a negative connotation. Many songs by the grindcore band fronted by the late Seth Putnam (1968 – 2011) were intended to shock.  It begins with the song titles, with the lyrics expounding the unapologetic aesthetic.  A later song from AxCx drips in controversy, “I’m Gonna Give You AIDS”, the eighth track on the band’s 2011 album, Fuckin’ A.

No deep analysis is necessary regarding the outlandish “I’m Gonna Give You AIDS,” but giving someone HIV is nothing to joke about, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community 🏳️‍🌈. Transmitting HIV could lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, the final stage, but Putnam and company seem to ignore the science (not their M.O.). Before transmitting this STD, Putnam informs this groupie, “You’re only useful when you’re sucking my dick / The mere sight of you makes me fucking sick.” Wow… The second verse is wild and problematic: “I’ll let you let me fuck you in your fucking ass / I’ll give you AIDS while I shove it in your ass.” Yes, anal can be risky, but it can be practiced safely…  Seth shocks in one final verse, admitting he’s “a total fucking scum,” who, again, is going to transmit AIDS via his man juice orally and anally. Perhaps more troubling is the post-chorus: “I’m so glad, I’m so glad, I’m so glad, I’ve got fuckin’ AIDS.” Bruh, c’mon!  The noisy, scathing, and unapologetic “I’m Gonna Give You AIDS” should be taken with a grain of salt.  AxCx intended to shock, which they successfully do in this raw, screamed grindcore record. But let’s remember that infecting someone with HIV shouldn’t ever be taken lightly.

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~ Table of Contents ~

7. Jordan Knight, “Give It To You”

Jordan Knight » UMG Recordings Inc. » 1999

Jordan Knight, Jordan Knight [📷: UMG Recordings Inc.]

“Baby, you know, I can give it to you / You can’t deny, I’d do it right.”
D-d-damn, Jordan Knight (b. 1970)! Ooh-wee, it’s getting hot in here! The Grammy-nominated heartthrob has some bragging rights. His debut solo single, “Give It To You”, reached the top 10 on the pop charts. That is a big accomplishment.  Adding to the accolades, it was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. His 1990 self-titled album was also certified gold. Here’s the thing, though… “Give It To You” was the only song Knight charted… ouch! A bit of an unusual, futuristic pop record for its time, it was written by Knight, Jimmy Jam (b. 1959), Terry Lewis (b. 1956), and Robin Thicke (b. 1977).  Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis also produced it.

“Give It To You” distinguished itself from other pop hits.  It has an innovative spirit thanks to the sound effects and ideas. It begins with a unique, circus/carnival-like instrumental introduction that comes out of left field. Throughout, there are also some distinct harmonic moments.  Following the introduction, “Give It To You” settles into pop and electro-infused R&B.  Over the striking backdrop, Jordan Knight delivers a smooth, swagger-filled vocal.  In addition to his playful performance, the background vocals pack a punch, too. Thematically, the song isn’t challenging – it’s giving S meets E and then they X. By the way, if things felt a bit shaky during the first verse, things add up during the chorus:

“Baby, you know I can give it to you

You can’t deny, I’d do it right

Just let me know and I’ll give it to you

Show me where, I’ll taste you there.”

Halfway through the song, the seemingly out-of-place, circus-like intro returns.  It still doesn’t make that much sense, but whatever.  It returns one final time to conclude “Give It To You.” Following its second iteration, the more stable, electro-R&B vibes reestablish themselves.  Revisiting “Give It To You”, it is a one-hit wonder that I’m a bit surprised was so successful.  Was it the fact that it is unusual, even listening again in the 2020s, that helped it ascend up the charts? Was Jordan Knight just that guy who was in an ultra-successful boy band that helped him reach solo success? Regardless, “Give It To You” carved out its place in music history.

 

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8. New Radicals, “You Get What You Give”

Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too » UMG Recordings, Inc. » 1998

New Radicals, Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too [📷: UMG Recordings, Inc.]

“One dance left, this world is gonna pull through.”
Perhaps those lyrics meant something different in 1998. However, those words Gregg Alexander sings remain relevant well into the 2020s.  Another lyric that remains potent and thoughtful: “Don’t give up, you’ve got a reason to live.” Yes! New Radicals was comprised of Alexander and Danielle Brisebois primarily. Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too was their sole LP, released in 1998.  The song to beat is the second track and single, “You Get What You Give”. It gave the band a top 40 hit, peaking at number 36 on the Billboard Hot 100.  “Give” was written by Alexander and Rick Nowels. Alexander produced it.

“You Get What You Give” is a feel-good, uplifting pop/rock classic. Yes, the song sounds 1990s, pre-2000 through and through.  That is part of its charm pushing 30 years later.  The encouraging vibes to those reckless, liberal kids are not dated but rather timeless. Gregg Alexander ‘brings up’ the youth with his terrific tenor. “Wake up, kids, we got the dreamers’ disease / Age fourteen, they got you down on your knees,” Alexander sings in the first verse.  Just like in the 1990s, the kids of the 2020s aspire, which some parents and conservative society desire to snuff out. Beyond battling narrow-minded views, Alexander criticizes the ‘bad rich,’ asserting, “God’s flying in for your trial.” Oh, snap! With a crazy, unpredictable world, Gregg encourages us not to be scared: “This whole damn world could fall apart / You’ll be okay, follow your heart.” The chorus is the section to beat:

“You’ve got the music in you

Don’t let go, you’ve got the music in you

One dance left, this world is gonna pull through

Don’t give up, you’ve got a reason to live

Can’t forget, we only get what we give.” 

No matter what happens, New Radicals encourage us to give our all – don’t give up or fall victim to fears.  Live life to the best of your ability. “You Get What You Give” remains the sugar honey iced tea, with its thoughtful messaging, it’s seize-the-day, assertiveness, and celebrity shade (“Fashion shoots with Beck and Hanson /… You’re all fakes, run to your mansions / Come around, we’ll kick your ass in”).  #CLASSIC!

 

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9. Tracy Chapman, “Give Me One Reason”

New Beginning » Elektra Entertainment » 1995

Tracy Chapman, New Beginning [📷: Elektra Entertainment]

“Give me one reason to stay here / And I’ll turn right back around.”
Sounds reasonable to me! Had Tracy Chapman (b. 1964) only landed one hit, “Fast Car”, the singer-songwriter would’ve solidified her musical legacy.  But Chapman earned another hit, eight years later, with “Give Me One Reason”. “Give Me One Reason” is the ninth track from her 1995 multi-platinum album, New Beginning.  It debuted on the pop charts in 1996, where it earned Chapman her highest-charting hit.  It bested ‘88’s “Fast Car,” peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100.  Adding to the accolades, it was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.  Nominated for multiple Grammys, “Reason” won Chapman her fourth and most recent Grammy for Best Rock Song. Chapman composed this 1990s classic and produced it with Don Gehman.

“Give Me One Reason” begins in minimalist fashion.  The primary instrument is the guitar, outlining a bluesy, folksy harmonic progression.  This turns out to be a brilliant tone-setter.  Following the instrumental intro, Chapman delivers superb vocals performing the centerpiece; the chorus, excerpted earlier.  She continues singing, “Said I don’t wanna leave you lonely / You gotta make me change my mind.” Chapman’s contralto vocals are expressive and nuanced. She never sounds like she breaks a sweat.  Following the first chorus, more musical accompaniment enters the mix during the first verse (bass, drums).  The guitar riffs compel as Tracy informs us, “Baby, I got your number / Oh, and I know that you got mine.” Ooh-la-la. During the second chorus, keyboards (organ) and background vocals help to expand the backdrop.  It’s never too much; always just right. Chapman delivers two consecutive verses, composed like a blues.  In the second verse, “I don’t want no one to squeeze me / They might take away my life.” Oh, snap! In the third and final verse, she states, “This youthful heart can love you, yes / And give you what you need.”  Between those verses, shout-out to the compelling, incredibly smooth, and rhythmic guitar solo. Take one listen to “Give Me One Reason”, and it’s understandable why this was a big-time hit, particularly in the mid-90s.

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~ Table of Contents ~

10. George Benson, “Give Me the Night”

Give Me the Night » Warner Records Inc. » 1980

George Benson, Give Me the Night [📷: Warner Records Inc.]

“‘Cause there’s music in the air / And lots of lovin’ everywhere / So gimme the night.”
Ooh-wee! George Benson (b. 1943) is a prodigiously talented musician.  One of the greatest guitarists to ever play, he’s also an incredible vocalist. Incredibly versatile, Benson is equally adept in jazz, pop, and R&B/soul.  “Give Me the Night”, one of four top 10 hits, shows Benson flexing in R&B music, with smooth jazz vibes in play, too. His highest charting hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100, is the fourth track from his 1980 album of the same name. It was written by the late, great Rod Temperton (1949 – 2016), who was renowned for composing epic pop hits such as “Thriller” by Michael Jackson. Quincy Jones (1933 – 2024) produced it. “Night” earned Benson one of his 10 Grammys, winning deservedly for the award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male at the 1980 Grammys.

“Give Me the Night” kicks off with an incredibly clean and potent groove, a tasteful guitar riff, and a tight, locked-in band. George Benson impresses with his easygoing but highly expressive, nuanced, and soulful vocals. His tone is celestial, while his phrasing is impeccable. “Whenever dark has fallen / You know the spirit of the party starts to come alive,” he sings in the first verse, and concludes, “You can throw out all your blues and hit the city lights.” Beyond his lyrical singing, Benson’s scatted vocal moments are equally amazing, characterized by their light, rhythmic nature.  Beyond George’s refined pipes, the same can be said of the background vocals, including Patti Austin (b. 1950), which contribute to the jazziness of the track.  The chorus, excerpted earlier, is the crème de la crème.  The bridge distinguishes itself from the verses and chorus. The songwriting is related, but the harmonic progression and key contrast.

“So come on out tonight, and we’ll lead the others

On a ride through paradise

And if you feel all right

Then we can be lovers ‘cause I see that starlight look in your eyes

Don’t you know we can fly?”

The extended outro continues the sophisticated musical experience, including awesome lead and background vocals, gorgeous strings, and biting brass. Ultimately,  George Benson gives us five minutes of greatness with “Give Me the Night”.

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~ Table of Contents ~

11. Marvin Gaye, “Got To Give It Up”

Every Great Motown Hit of Marvin Gaye » Motown » 1983

Marvin Gaye, Every Great Motown Hit of Marvin Gaye [📷: Motown]What makes “Got To Give It Up” an unforgettable classic? It begins with the infectious, percussive groove.  The mix of drums (Bugsy Wilcox) and various percussion instruments is funky to the nth degree.  The minute you hear it, your body naturally wants to move.  This is intentional, given the fact that Gaye’s label wanted him to record disco. Gaye, Frankie Beverly (1946 – 2024), and Jack Ashford (1934 – ) ‘put in work’ on the percussion front. Beyond the percussion, the rest of the rhythm section packs a mighty punch – the keys and bass cook!  Adding to the allure of the cut, before mentioning Gaye’s ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ vocals, are the distinct speaking voices (which sound like crowd noise), mixed in the background. 

Of course, the straw that stirs the drink that is “Got To Give It Up” is Marvin Gaye. His voice is otherworldly.  A master of falsetto, “Got To Give It Up” features some of his most decadent, high-flying head voice.  Gaye uses his marvelous instrument to bring the carefree, tuneful melodies to life.  He is commanding yet the feel is easygoing – barely breaking a sweat. “I used to go out to parties and stand around / ‘Cause I was too nervous to really get down,” he sings in the first verse, continuing, “But my body yearned to be free / I got up on the floor and thought, ‘Somebody could choose me.’” Word!  No longer a wallflower, Gaye embraces the groove and socializes now!

“This is such a groovy place

All the young ladies are so fine

You’re moving your body easy with no doubt

I know what you thinkin’ baby

You wanna turn me out

Think I’m gonna let you do it, babe.”

Beyond epic lead vocals and personality exhibited by Gaye, the background vocals are elite, too.  He got help from his siblings, Frankie Gaye (1941 – 2001) and Zeola Gaye (b. 1945), as well as his second wife, Janis Hunter Gaye (1956 – 2022). Ultimately, “Got To Give It Up” is timeless.  Notably, the song ‘inspired’ the dominant 2013 hit, “Blurred Lines”… Notably, the Gayes sued Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams for copyright infringement and ultimately won the case.  

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12. Jerry Butler, “Never Give You Up”

The Ice Man Cometh » UMG Recordings, Inc. » 1968

Jerry Butler, The Ice Man Cometh [📷: UMG Recordings, Inc.]

“Never gonna give you up / No matter how you treat me / Never gonna give you up / So don’t you think of leavin’.”
Jerry Butler (1939 – 2025) had a successful musical career, particularly in the 1960s.  Notably, Butler was also a politician.  One of Jerry’s most important albums is The Ice Man Cometh, released in 1968. The biggest hit from the LP is “Only The Strong Survive” (Butler’s ace-in-the-hole). Beyond that strong gem, “Never Give You Up”, the seventh track from The Ice Man Cometh, is superb too. It impacted the pop charts, peaking at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Butler penned “Never Give You Up” with the iconic songwriting and production duo Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff. 

With Gamble and Huff behind the boards, the backdrop is classy, refined, and sophisticated to the nth degree.  The orchestration is marvelous (the beauty and punch of brass), while the rhythm section is tight. Butler sings over the backdrop like a champ.  He gives an authentic, nuanced, and well-rounded performance. “Girl, you treat me bad, and I know why,” Butler sings in the first verse, continuing, “Yeah, I’ve seen you runnin’ around with another guy / And you think, if you hurt me, that I’ll go away.” Oh, my! In the second verse, her tactics are similar: “You think you’re gonna take me and put me on the shelf? / Girl, I’d rather die than see you with somebody else.” Oh, snap! The section to beat is the chorus, among the most memorable of Butler’s career (excerpted at the top).  Butler is NEVER GONNA GIVE HER UP! Even though his ‘friends say he’s a fool,’ he’s resolved to win her affection.  Love makes you do crazy things and the ultra-memorable “Never Give You Up” is a prime example. Jerry Butler shines.

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13. Mary Mary, “Can’t Give Up Now”

Thankful » Sony BMG Music Entertainment » 2000

Mary Mary, Thankful [📷: Columbia]

“I just can’t give up now / I come too far from where I started from.”
“Can’t Give Up Now” ranks among the best tracks from the catalog of Grammy-winning gospel duo, Mary Mary. Appearing as the fifth track on their 2000, double platinum, debut album, Thankful, it features an urban sound, embracing the R&B of the era. Give Erica Campbell’s husband, producer Warryn “Baby Dubb” Campbell, credit for the marvelous backdrop. Originally, “I Don’t Feel No Ways Tired”, the song Mary Mary transform was written by Curtis Burrell.  This new interpretation adds writing credits by Erica, Tina Campbell, and Warryn. Among many things that make “Can’t Give Up Now” uplifting are the encouraging lyrics. In the first verse, adversity is acknowledged, but even so, “But victory or defeat, it’s up to me to decide / But how can I expect to win if I never try.” Similarly, in the second verse, “But when my back is against the wall / And I feel all hope is gone / I’ll just lift my head up to the sky / And say help me to be strong.” It leads to the centerpiece, the chorus, where “Nobody told me the road would be easy / And I don’t believe He’s brought me this far / To leave me” 🙌 🙌 🙌. Some other notes regarding this 2000 gospel classic.  The vocals by both sisters are electrifying ⚡️, from the poised, expressive verses, to the high-flying riffs on the extended chorus 💪.  Also making the extended chorus epic are sublime choral vocals, superbly executed key changes, and, of course, the spirit! The musicianship is lofty, from the gang clapping to the break during the coda (the FINAL chorus).

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~ Table of Contents ~ » ~ intro ~

13 GIVE Songs Where It’s Giving Greatness (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Amusement, Archie Music, Artemas, Elektra Entertainment, Island, KRA International Inc., Merovingian Music Ltd., Motown, Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Tappy Whyte’s Music, UMG Recordings Inc., Warner Records Inc., Wicked Sick; Helena Lopes from Pexels; Gordon Johnson from Pixabay]

 

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the musical hype

The Musical Hype (he/him) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education and music theory/composition, respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Music and writing are two of the most important parts of his life.

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