About the Song
“Shop Around” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles is a timeless classic that exemplifies the group’s soulful harmonies and infectious energy. Released in 1960, this iconic song became one of Motown’s earliest hits, paving the way for the group’s rise to fame and establishing Smokey Robinson as one of the era’s most talented songwriters.
From the moment the song begins, listeners are drawn in by its upbeat tempo and catchy melody. The Miracles’ harmonies are smooth and polished, complementing Smokey Robinson’s lead vocals with effortless charm.
At its core, “Shop Around” is a playful ode to the ups and downs of young love. The lyrics, penned by Robinson and Motown founder Berry Gordy, Jr., offer a humorous yet insightful commentary on the complexities of relationships and the importance of taking your time to find the right partner.
As the song unfolds, Robinson’s vocals convey a sense of confidence and swagger, urging listeners to heed his advice and “shop around” before settling down. The chorus, with its infectious refrain of “Don’t be so quick to walk away,” is impossible to resist, encouraging listeners to embrace life’s adventures and explore their options before making a commitment.
The song’s catchy melody and energetic instrumentation make it a favorite on dance floors around the world, while its timeless message of love and self-discovery resonates with audiences of all ages. “Shop Around” remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate listeners with its irresistible charm and infectious groove, cementing its status as one of Smokey Robinson & The Miracles’ most enduring hits.
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Lyrics
When I became of age, my mother called me to her side
She said, “Son, you’re growing up now
Pretty soon you’ll take a bride”
And then she said
Just because you’ve become a young man now
There’s still somethings that you don’t understand now
Before you ask some girl for her hand now
Keep your freedom for as long as you can now
My mama told me, you better shop around (shop, shop around, uh-huh-huh)
Whoa yeah, you better shop around (shop, shop around)
Oh, there’s some things that I want you to know now
Just as sure as the winds gonna blow now
The women come and the women gonna go now
Before you tell ’em that you love ’em so now
My mama told me, you better shop around (shop, shop around, uh-huh-huh)
Whoa yeah, you better shop around (shop, shop around)
Try to get yourself a bargain, son
Don’t be sold on the very first one
Now pretty girls come a dime a dozen
Try to find one who’s gonna give you true loving
Before you take a girl and say “I do” now
Make sure she’s in love with you now
My mama told me, you better shop around
Oh, hey
Try to get yourself a bargain, son
Don’t be sold on the very first one
Pretty girls come a dime a dozen
Try to find one who’s gonna give you true loving
Before you take a girl and say “I do” now
Make sure she’s in love with you now
Make sure that her love is true now
I’d hate to see you feeling sad and blue now
My mama told me, you better shop around (shop, shop around, uh-huh-huh)
Uh-huh, don’t let the first one get you
Oh no, ’cause I don’t wanna see her with you
Uh-huh, before you let her hold you tight
Oh yeah, yeah, make sure she’s alright
Uh-huh, before you let her take your hand, my son
Understand, my son, be a man, my son
I know you can, my son, I love you