Songs with Earlier Histories Than the Hit Version

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Do You Love Me

Originally recorded by The Contours (US #3/R&B #1 1962).
Hit versions by Brian Poole & The Tremeloes (UK #1 1963), The Dave Clark Five (US #11/UK #30 1964).
Also recorded by The Hollies (1964).

From the wiki: “Berry Gordy wrote ‘Do You Love Me’ with the intent that The Temptations, who had no Top 40 hits to their name yet, would record it. However, when Gordy wanted to locate the group and record the song, they were nowhere to be found (the Temptations had not been made aware of Gordy’s intentions, and had departed Motown’s recording studio that day for a local Detroit gospel music showcase).

“After spending some time looking for the Temptations, Gordy ran into the Contours in the hallway. Wanting to record and release ‘Do You Love Me’ as soon as possible, Gordy decided to let them record his ‘sure-fire hit’ instead of the Temptations. The Contours, who were in danger of being dropped from the label after their first two singles (‘Whole Lotta’ Woman’ and ‘The Stretch’) failed to chart, were so elated at Gordy’s offer that they immediately began hugging and thanking him.”

Brian Poole & The Tremeloes, “Do You Love Me” (1963):

The Dave Clark Five, “Do You Love Me” (1964):

The Hollies, “Do You Love Me” (1964):

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