The Marvelettes
Sophisticated Soul
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:30
A2 Destination: Anywhere
Written-By – Ashford, Simpson 2:35
A3 I'm Gonna Hold On Long As I Can
Written-By – Wilson, Manns 2:42
A4 Here I Am Baby
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:43
A5 You're The One For Me Bobby
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:29
A6 Reachin' For Something I Can't Have
Written-By – Weatherspoon, Dean, Weatherspoon 2:44
B1 Your Love Can Save Me
Written-By – Ashford, Simpson 2:34
B2 You're The One
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:47
B3 Don't Make Hurting Me A Habit
Written-By – Dean, Weatherspoon, Barnes 2:52
B4 What's Easy For Two Is Hard For One
Written-By – Wm. Robinson 2:39
B5 The Stranger
Written-By – I. Hunter 2:56
B6 Someway, Somehow
Written-By – Morris, Moy 2:27
Label: Tamla – TS286
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1968
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul, Motown
The Marvelettes' Sophisticated Soul (1968) is widely hailed as a standout, showcasing the group's mature, jazzier, and funkier direction, with strong vocals from Wanda Young and a shift towards richer, more complex Motown sounds, featuring hits like "My Baby Must Be a Magician," "Here I Am Baby," and "Destination: Anywhere". Critics praise its cohesive quality, great production, and how it moves beyond typical girl-group pop to a more adult, soulful groove, making it a beloved gem in their catalog.
The album marks a significant growth for the group, moving from bubbly pop to sophisticated, jazz-infused soul, with influences from funk and psychedelia.
Wanda Young's powerful, emotive lead vocals are a highlight, particularly on tracks like "Destination: Anywhere," with some calling it her best work.
It features memorable tracks like Smokey Robinson's "My Baby Must Be a Magician" and the funky "Here I Am Baby," showcasing varied styles, and is praised for its rich, complex arrangements and cohesive feel, making almost every track shine, unlike some other Motown releases.
It is often considered one of Motown's best albums, yet sometimes overshadowed by The Supremes or Martha Reeves, despite its quality.
Considered a must-have for soul fans, with strong ratings on sites like Discogs. A testament to Motown's musical growth in the late '60s, offering both mellow ballads and spunky dance tracks.