About the song
Introducing “You Beat Me To The Punch” by Mary Wells, a timeless soul classic that has left an indelible mark on music lovers since its release in 1962. Featured on Wells’ album “The One Who Really Loves You,” this song showcases her soulful vocals and emotive delivery.
Written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of The Miracles, “You Beat Me To The Punch” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number 1 spot on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and peaking at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1962. Its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, earning widespread acclaim and establishing Mary Wells as a prominent figure in the Motown sound.
The song’s theme of heartbreak and unrequited love struck a chord with listeners, making it a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music. Its timeless appeal has ensured its place as a classic of the genre, with Mary Wells’ soulful rendition continuing to enchant audiences decades later.
With its soul-stirring melody and poignant lyrics, “You Beat Me To The Punch” remains a testament to Mary Wells’ talent and the enduring legacy of Motown. Whether you’re reminiscing about the golden age of soul music or discovering this gem for the first time, Mary Wells’ “You Beat Me To The Punch” is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.
Video
Lyrics
That day
I first saw you passing by
I wanted
To know your name, but I was much too shy
But I was looking at you so hard
Until you must’ve had a hunch
So you came up to me and asked me my name
You beat me to the punch that time (you beat me to the punch)
You beat me to the punch, oh-oh-oh-oh (you beat me to the punch)
You beat me to the punch (you beat me to the punch)
Oh-oh-oh, after
I hadn’t known you for it seems like a long, long time
I wanted
Wanted to ask you, would you please, please be mine
Whenever you came around, my heart would pound
So you must have had a hunch
So you came up to me and asked me to be yours
You beat me to the punch one more time (you beat me to the punch)
You beat me to the punch, oh-oh-oh-oh (you beat me to the punch)
You beat me to the punch, yeah (you beat me to the punch)
Since I love you, I thought you would be true
And love me tender
So I let my heart surrender
To you, yes, I did
But I found out beyond a doubt
One day, boy, you were a playboy
Who would go away and leave me blue
So I ain’t gonna wait around for you to put me down
This time I’m gonna play my hunch
And walk away this very day
And beat you to the punch this time (I’ll beat you to the punch)
I’ll beat you to the punch, yes, I will (I’ll beat you to the punch)
Won’t let you, no, no (I’ll beat you to the punch)
Oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh (I’ll beat you to the punch)
Oh-oh-oh-oh