#29: You've Really Got A Hold On Me

Written by: Smokey Robinson
Released: November 22nd, 1963
Appears on: with the beatles
Lead vocal: John

Smokey Robinson is one of the most noted songwriters in history and one of the greatest. He probably wrote more Motown hits than anybody. "You've Really Got A Hold On Me" was first recorded by Smokey's vehicle, The Miracles and became a smash hit, reaching #8 on Billboard in November of 1962 (here it is). The Beatles quickly managed to get a hold of it and recorded it in the studio during the July sessions for with the beatles.

Of course, the song became one of their stage favorites and they performed it four times for the BBC (one of which is on Live At The BBC!). Their performance of the song certainly is show-stopping, especially with George Martin's piano taking center stage behind John's powerful vocal.

The bottom line: this is a fantastic song that always leaves me in amazement.