About the song
The Supremes’ swan song as a trio, “The Happening,” is a timeless pop anthem that encapsulates the optimism and energy of the late 1960s. Released in 1967 as the theme song for the eponymous film, the track quickly ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, cementing the group’s status as one of the most popular acts of the era.
Produced by the legendary songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland, “The Happening” is a melodic masterpiece that showcases the trio’s vocal harmony and the infectious rhythm section provided by Motown’s renowned studio musicians. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it an instant earworm, while the lyrics evoke a sense of anticipation and excitement.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Happening” holds significant historical importance. It marked the final single released by The Supremes under that name, as the group transitioned to Diana Ross & the Supremes following Florence Ballard’s departure. Additionally, the song’s performance on The Ed Sullivan Show from Expo 67 further solidified the Supremes’ status as international stars.
While the film itself may have been a commercial failure, “The Happening” remains a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the group’s enduring talent and the timeless appeal of their music.
Video
Lyrics
Hey, life, look at me
I can see the reality
‘Cause when you shook me, took me out of my world
I woke up
Suddenly I just woke up to the happening
When you find that you left the future behind
‘Cause when you got a tender love
You don’t take care of
Then you better beware of the happening
One day you’re up, then you turn around
You find your world is tumbling down
It happened to me, and it can happen to you
I was sure, I felt secure
Until love took a detour
Yeah, riding high on top of the world
It happened, suddenly it just happened
I saw my dreams fall apart
When love walked away from my heart
And when you lose that precious love you need
To guide you
Something happens inside you, the happening
Now I see life for what it is
It’s not all dreams, ooh, it’s not all bliss
It happened to me and it can happen to you
Once
Ooh, and then it happened
Ooh, and then it happened
Ooh, and then it happened
Ooh, and then it happened
Is it real, is it fake
Is this game of life a mistake?
‘Cause when I lost the love I thought was mine
For certain, suddenly I started hurting
I saw the light too late
When that fickle finger of fate
Yeah, came and broke my pretty balloon
I woke up
Suddenly I just woke up to the happening
So sure, I felt secure
Until love took a detour
‘Cause when you got a tender love you don’t
Take care of, then you better beware of
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