The Jackson 5, “Never Can Say Goodbye” | Throwback Vibez

In the 103^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2022), we recollect and reflect on “Never Can Say Goodbye,” originally performed by The Jackson 5.   

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace Throwback Vibez are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome – we don’t discriminate ‘round here! In the 103^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2022), we recollect and reflect on “Never Can Say Goodbye”, originally performed by The Jackson 5.

Theme & Lyrics  

“Never can say goodbye / … No, no, no, no I / Never can say goodbye.” “Never Can Say Goodbye” is a beloved soul classic, period.  The original recording by iconic Motown family group, The Jackson 5, was a huge success. Michael Jackson and company saw “Never Can Say Goodbye” top the R&B charts and peak at no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.  It’s easy to hear why this Clifton Davis performed so well on the charts.

“Even though the pain and heartache / Seems to follow me wherever I go,” a 12-year-old Michael Jackson sings in the first verse, continuing, “Though I try and try to hide my feelings / They always seem to show.” Even if the romantic vibes – the love pain and heartache – of “Never Can Say Goodbye” feel the slightest bit young for a pre-teen, there’s just something special about hearing that boyish lead on this surefire highlight from Maybe Tomorrow (1971).

Final Thoughts

With Michael Jackson receiving awesome vocal support of his brothers, “Never Can Say Goodbye” is 1970s Motown at its best, period. “It says, ‘Turn around, you fool / You know you love her more and more.” That just might by the line to beat on this marvelous throwback gem!

The Jackson 5• Maybe Tomorrow • Motown • 1971

The Jackson 5, “Never Can Say Goodbye”: Throwback Vibez No. 103 (2022) [: Brent Faulkner, Gerhard G., JL G via Pixabay,  Karl Hörnfeldt via Unsplash, Motown, The Musical Hype]