LISTEN TO THE BEST THE CONTOURS SONGS IN STREAMING

The Contours were one of the early African-American soul singing groups signed to Motown Records. The group is best known for its classic chart-topping 1962 hit, Do You Love Me, a million-selling single that became a major hit all over again in 1988.
Dancing the Night Away with The Contours
When it comes to the Motown sound, few groups have the same level of energy and charisma as The Contours. Formed in Detroit in the early 1960s, this vocal quintet was known for their stunning harmonies and performances that were equal parts singing and dancing. But what made The Contours truly special was their ability to capture the spirit of the times, creating music that was both uplifting and reflective of the era's social issues. In this article, we'll take a look at The Contours' musical biography, explore their best songs, and dissect their unique genre-blending style.
The Contours got their start in 1960, signing to Motown Records after performing at a local Detroit talent show. Their first release, Whole Lotta Woman, showcased their upbeat, dancing style and quickly became a hit. Over the next few years, the group had several notable releases, including Do You Love Me, First I Look at the Purse, and Can You Jerk Like Me. These songs were known for their catchy hooks and driving beats, often punctuated by call-and-response vocals and sharp instrumental breaks.
One of the things that set The Contours apart was their genre-blending approach to music. They drew inspiration from a range of styles, including doo-wop, rock and roll, and the emerging soul sound. This allowed them to create a sound that was both familiar and fresh, blending classic harmonies with contemporary rhythms. This approach is perhaps best exemplified in their cover of The Four Tops' It's the Same Old Song. The Contours' rendition featured a harder-hitting beat and an extended instrumental section, giving the song a new lease on life.
Another hallmark of The Contours' live performances was their energetic dance routines. They were known for their synchronized moves and acrobatic flips, which added an extra element of excitement to their shows. Perhaps the most famous performance of this nature was their appearance in the 1988 film Dirty Dancing, where their hit Do You Love Me was prominently featured. The scene, which saw lead singer Billy Gordon leading a group of dancers in a high-energy routine, solidified The Contours' status as party starters and dancefloor legends.
Of course, no discussion of The Contours would be complete without a rundown of their best songs. Do You Love Me is undoubtedly their biggest hit, but other songs like Just a Little Misunderstanding and Shake Sherry showcased their tight harmonies and driving rhythms. For fans looking to hear a deeper cut, First I Look at the Purse is a great example of the group's genre-blending approach, featuring a funky bassline and expressive vocals.
In terms of critical reception, The Contours were often praised for their infectious energy and live performances. However, some critics felt that their music was not as socially relevant as other Motown groups like The Temptations or The Supremes. Still, there is no denying the impact that The Contours had on the Motown sound, and their ability to get audiences dancing remains impressive to this day.
The Contours were more than just a Motown group – they were a force of nature, blending genres and delivering unforgettable performances that filled dancefloors around the world. While their time in the spotlight was relatively brief, their impact on music cannot be overstated. From Do You Love Me to Shake Sherry, their music remains as irresistible as ever, and their legacy as party starters is firmly entrenched in the history of American popular music.
The Contours were more than just a Motown group – they were a force of nature, blending genres and delivering unforgettable performances that filled dancefloors around the world. While their time in the spotlight was relatively brief, their impact on music cannot be overstated. From Do You Love Me to Shake Sherry, their music remains as irresistible as ever, and their legacy as party starters is firmly entrenched in the history of American popular music.