Introduction
“Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” is a legendary song by the dynamic duo, McFadden & Whitehead. Released in 1979, this track has not only stood the test of time but has also become an enduring symbol of perseverance and triumph. With its infectious melody and empowering lyrics, it has touched the hearts of music lovers around the world for decades. In this article, we delve into the fascinating story behind the song and the talented artists who brought it to life.
Did You Know?
1. The Genesis of Success: McFadden & Whitehead, consisting of Gene McFadden and John Whitehead, were renowned American songwriters and producers before becoming recording artists. They worked with artists like The O’Jays and wrote hits like “Back Stabbers” and “For the Love of Money.”
2. Inspirational Lyrics: “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” is not just a catchy tune but a motivational anthem. Its lyrics celebrate perseverance and the belief that no obstacle is insurmountable, making it a favorite at celebrations and sporting events.
3. Chart-Topping Triumph: The song reached the number one spot on the Billboard R&B chart and remained there for five weeks. It also peaked at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing its place in music history.
4. Sampled and Covered: Over the years, the song has been sampled and covered by various artists, reaffirming its influence on contemporary music. It has appeared in movies, TV shows, and commercials, making it an integral part of pop culture.
5. Legacy Lives On: Tragically, Gene McFadden passed away in 2006, while John Whitehead was sadly killed in a shooting in 2004. Despite their untimely deaths, their music continues to inspire and uplift people worldwide.
Video
[Intro: Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson & Evette Benton]
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’re on the move
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’ve got the groove
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’re on the move
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’ve got the groove[Verse 1: John Whitehead]
There’s been so many things that’s held us down
But now it looks like things are finally comin’ around
I know we’ve got a long, long way to go
And where we’ll end up
I don’t know
But we won’t let nothing hold us back
We’re puttin’ ourselves together
We’re polishing up our act, well
And if you’ve ever been held down before
I know you refuse to be held down any more, well[Pre-Chorus: Gene McFadden, Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson & Evette Benton]
Don’t you let nothing, nothing
Nothing stand in your way
I want you to listen, listen
To every word I say
Every word I say[Hook: All]
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now (No)
We’re on the move (Huh)
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’ve got the groove (Huh)
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’re on the move (I know, I know)
Ain’t no stoppin’ us now
We’ve got the groove (We got it)[Verse 2: John Whitehead]
I know you know someone that has a negative vibe
And if you tryin’ to make it, they only push you aside
They really don’t have nowhere to go
Ask ’em where they’re going
They don’t know
But we won’t let nothing hold us back
We gonna get ourselves together, come on
We gonna polish up our act, well
And if you’ve ever been held down before
I know you refuse to be held down any more, well[Pre-Chorus: Gene McFadden, Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson & Evette Benton]
Don’t you let nothing, nothing
Stand in your way
I want y’all to listen, listen
To every word I say
Every word I say