“I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5

Logically speaking The Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There” is a love song, even if some may argue that that it also speaks to universal affection. The addressee is referred to numerous times with the type of terminology that is reserved for lovers. This is despite the fact that Michael Jackson was only 11 years old when this classic was recorded. But he had that type of natural vocal talent which gave off the air of him being wise and experienced beyond his years.

Indeed the words of this song come off as those of an experienced romantic. And as indicated by the title, the primary idea he is relaying throughout centers on his commitment to his lover. Or as lil’ MJ put it, anytime his “baby” calls for him, he “will be there”. So basically, this is one of those types of loves songs in which the singer is assuring his significant other of his level of commitment. And the implication is that due to such, he is advising her not to worry about that particular aspect of their relationship, as in him potentially being absent or unavailable.

Success of “I’ll Be There”

Whereas The Jackson 5 or more or less an afterthought in relation to lead singer Michael Jackson’s later success, still they were quite the record breakers in their own right. For instance, this classic reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, as did their three prior – and indeed debut – singles. As such they became the first group in history whose first-four singles accomplished this feat.

It also marked Motown Records’ biggest commercial success for a single in the US when it came out, having sold in excess of 4,000,000 copies. And it has also been noted as being The Jackson 5’s best-performing song ever. For example, it reached number four on the UK Singles Chart, in addition to being certified Silver in that country.

“I’ll Be There” also holds the distinction of being the last number one hit The Jackson 5 ever came out with, even though they continued to release albums until 1989. 

When was “I’ll Be There” released?

The song was officially released on 8 September 1970 as part of the group’s third album, which itself was entitled The Third Album. And yes, as soon as 1972 Michael Jackson did have another Hot 100 chart topper on his hands, that being the rat-based classic Ben.   However, that was also the same year he began coming out with solo projects, while still being a part of The Jackson 5 crew with his brothers.

Primary Singers

Vocally the chorus of this track is performed by Michael Jackson’s brother Jermaine, who was older than him by about four years. 

Writing Credits for “I’ll Be There”

Four artists wrote this classic. They are as follows:

• Willie Hutch (1944-2005)
• Hal Davis (1933-1998)
• Bob West
• Berry Gordy Jr. 

And Hal Davis, who had a long-tenured stint with Motown Records and accordingly worked with a number of big-name musicians (he even produced a Motown album for Bette Midler), produced the song.

Popular Covers

I’ll Be There found its way back to the top of the charts in 1992. Though this time it was performed by another exceptionally-talented vocalist, Mariah Carey, buttressed by Trey Lorenz.

‘Disco Queen’ Gloria Gaynor also came out with her own rendition in 1975, which was a notable hit in the UK.