I Want You Back
by The Jackson 5
What is “I Want You Back” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
In 'I Want You Back' by The Jackson 5, the singer expresses deep regret and longing to reunite with a former love who is now with someone else.
So… what’s this song really about?
The song 'I Want You Back' captures a blend of youthful sincerity and desperation, as expressed through the lively and soulful delivery of the Jackson 5. It dives into the feelings of regret and the realization of lost love, particularly emphasizing the singer's hindsight recognition of the value of what was let go. The recurring plea throughout the song suggests not merely a wish to return to past relationships but also speaks to a deeper, almost innocent desire to right the wrongs made in moments of unawareness. This reflects a universal sentiment of longing and the human condition of learning to appreciate what one had only after it's gone. The catchy, upbeat music contrasts with the somewhat melancholy subject of the lyrics, creating a rich, emotional layer that appeals to listeners who have experienced similar situations of loss and regret.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who wrote 'I Want You Back' by The Jackson 5?
The song 'I Want You Back' was written by the team known as The Corporation, including Berry Gordy, Freddie Perren, Alphonzo Mizell, and Deke Richards.
Q: When was 'I Want You Back' by The Jackson 5 released?
The Jackson 5 released 'I Want You Back' in 1969.
Q: What genre is 'I Want You Back' by The Jackson 5?
The song 'I Want You Back' by The Jackson 5 is considered a classic example of Motown, R&B, and soul music.
Lyrics to “I Want You Back”
85 ContributorsI Want You Back Lyrics
[Chorus: Michael Jackson & Jackson 5]
Oh, baby, all I need is one more chance (To show you that I love you)
Won't you please let me (Back in your heart)
Oh, darlin', I was blind to let you go (Let you go, baby)
But now, since I see you in his arms, uh-huh
[Bridge: Michael Jackson]
A buh buh buh buh
A buh buh buh buh, all I want
A buh buh buh buh, all I need
A buh buh buh buh, all I want
A buh buh buh buh, all I need
[Chorus 2: Jermaine Jackson, Michael Jackson & Jackson 5]
Oh, just one more chance
To show you that I love you
Baby! Baby!
Baby! Baby!
Baby! Baby!
I want you back
[Jackie Jackson & Jackson 5]
Forget what happened then
I want you back
[Jermaine Jackson]
Let me live again
[Chorus 3: Michael Jackson & Jackson 5]
Oh, baby, I was blind to let you go
But now, since I see you in his arms
I want you back
[Jackie Jackson]
Spare me of this 'cause
[Jermaine Jackson]
Gimme back what I lost
[Outro: Michael Jackson and Jermaine Jackson]
Oh, baby, I need one more chance, ha
I tell ya that I love you
(Baby!) Oh! (Baby!) Oh! (Baby!) Oh!
I want you back!
[Jackie Jackson]
Forget what happened then
[Michael Jackson]
I want you back!
[Jermaine Jackson]
And let me live again
[Michael Jackson]
Oh, I want you back! Ha!