"Darling Baby" is a 1965 song by the Elgins. Written and produced by Holland–Dozier–Holland, it was released on Motown's VIP label and features lead vocals by Saundra Edwards. The song is a soul ballad characterized by its lyrics expressing romantic heartbreak and longing. It became one of the group's most successful recordings, reaching number four on the Billboard R&B chartBillboard. (1965, December 25). Billboard, 77(52), 64. Google Books. https://books.google.com/books?id=-SgEAAAAMBAJ and number 72 on the Billboard Hot 100.Billboard. (1965, October 16). Billboard, 77(42), 22. Google Books. https://books.google.com/books?id=0ygEAAAAMBAJ
Background and composition The track is heavily based on co-writer Lamont Dozier's 1960 solo record "Let's Talk It Over" (released under his pseudonym Lamont Anthony), recycling its core melody and prominent vocal hook: "Come back to these arms of mine... let's talk it over baby, one more time." Originally recorded as a 1964 backing track for The Supremes, H-D-H repurposed the music for The Elgins.Classic Motown. (n.d.). The Elgins: The story behind the image. https://classic.motown.com/story/the-elgins-story-behind-the-image/
Chart performance
Chart (1966) Peakposition US Billboard Hot 100 72 US Billboard Hot R&B Singles 4
Cover versions American R&B singer Jackie Moore recorded a version of "Darling Baby" for her album Sweet Charlie Babe. Moore's rendition was released as a single and reached number 22 on the Billboard R&B chartBillboard. (1971, April 24). Billboard, 83(17), 32. Google Books. https://books.google.com/books?id=vigEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA32 and number 106 on the Billboard pop chart. Rose Banks, Sly Stone's sister, recorded a cover in 1976.
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