S.O.D. "Do You Love Me" by The Contours

7/31/2015     The Contours scored a lucky break being able to record this tune in 1962.  Motown CEO Berry Gordy Jr wrote this song with the intention of it being recorded by the Temptations.  The Temptations however were not aware of this and had departed for a Detroit gospel music showcase.  Unable to locate the Temptations, Gordy saw The Contours in the hallway of the studio and offered them the song.  The members of The Contours began thanking and hugging Gordy due to him probably saving their butts from being released from the current label.  

     It charted at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 3 weeks and took the #1 spot on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. Then in 1987 the song regained popularity with the movie Dirty Dancing, so much so that it helped to launch a new tour with the remaining members of The Contours teaming with vocalists Ronnie Spector and Bill Medley.  

     In 1959 they began as the Blenders in Detroit, made some changes and then in 1960 became The Contours. They took a nine year hiatus in 1968 and are still active today.  They are also one of the first African-American soul singing groups ever signed to Motown Records.