The Jackson 5, The Love You Save | Throwback Vibez

In the 28th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “The Love You Save” by the legendary Motown brother collective, 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 this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome. In the 28^th edition of Throwback Vibez ️ (2025), we recollect and reflect on “The Love You Save” performed by The Jackson 5.

“Stop! Na na na! You’d better save it / Stop, stop, stop, you’d better save it.” Yes sir! Grammy-nominated and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted brother group, The Jackson 5 – Michael Jackson (1958 – 2009), Jackie Jackson (1952 – ), Marlon Jackson (1957 – ), Tito Jackson (1953 – 2024), and Jermaine Jackson (1954 – ) – were one of Motown’s legendary collectives. A hit machine, “The Love You Save”, the opening track from their 1970 album, ABC, is one of their four number one hits on the Billboard Hot 100.  The Corporation – Alphonso “Fonce” Mizell, Berry Gordy, Deke Richards, and Freddie Perren – composed and produced The three-minute gem.  

What makes “The Love You Save” an enduring 1970s pop/R&B bop? Everything, to be honest. Musically, the accompaniment is fire.  The groove is funky to the nth degree, while the bass line is awesome given its big, robust sound.  Michael Jackson, who was only 11 years old, is electrifying in handling most of the lead vocals.  His performance is spirited, filled with ample personality.  “When we played tag in grade school / You wanted to be it,” Jackson sings, innocently, continuing, “But chasing boys was just a fad / You crossed your heart you’d quit.” As fun as the verses are, with rhythmic, tuneful melodies, it is the infectious chorus, also sung by Michael, that is the section to beat:

“Stop! The love you save may be your own

Darling, take it slow

Or someday, you’ll be all alone

You’d better stop! The love you save may be your own

Darling, look both ways before you cross me

You’re headed for a danger zone.”

The Jackson 5 emphasizes not rushing in the four-letter, universal word. “S is for ‘Save it’ / T is for ‘Take it slow’ / O is for ‘Oh, no!’ / P is for ‘Please, please, don’t go!’” In the last line, however, he does want her to stay, even if she’s moving too fast.  Ultimately, “The Love You Save” is a surefire classic that never grows old!

The Jackson 5 // ABC // Motown // 1970

The Jackson 5, The Love You Save: Throwback Vibez ️ No. 28 (2025) [: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Motown; AcatXlo, OpenClipart-Vectors, Clker-Free-Vector-Images, Speedy McVroom from Pixabay]