You Keep Running Away
The Four Tops · Other Songs - The Four Tops
You come back to me
But still you won't stay
Darlin you keep running away
Tear my heart apart every step of the way
You're here today & gone tomorrow
Leave this heart of mine in sorrow
Then you come around every now & then
Long enough to hurt me then you're gone again
Darlin you keep running away
Well I begged you not to leave but you never stay
Now you, you keep running away
Leavin me here to face another lonely day
To you all of this is just a game
Well each time you leave I feel the pain
But I've got so much love for you
I keep wanting you no matter what you do
All I want to do is take care of you
Everything I have in my life
I will share with you
This soul of mine has been processed by you
Darling my heart has been obsessed with you
Just look at me
I'm not the man I used to be
I used to be proud
I used to be strong
But all of that's changed girl
Since you come along
Your lovin sweetness
Is my weakness
Boy I need you dear
I just can't keep you near
Each time you go the hurt comes callin
My days become nights, darlin
My nights become so much longer
You're in my life, you're in my heart
But I can't get you
Get you into my arms
Darlin, you keep runnin away
You Keep Running Away - The Four Tops
Released in 1967, "You Keep Running Away" stands as a defining track for The Four Tops, showcasing the group's signature blend of soulful vocals and Motown production. The song features lead singer Levi Stubbs delivering a powerful, emotive performance that anchors the track's narrative of romantic frustration. As a staple of the group's discography, the recording exemplifies the era's polished sound while capturing the raw intensity characteristic of their live performances. The composition, written by the Holland-Dozier-Holland team, became a signature piece that highlighted the vocal prowess of the group's lineup, particularly the interplay between Stubbs and the backing vocalists. It remains a celebrated example of 1960s soul music, frequently covered and revered for its enduring emotional impact and melodic structure.