Released: August 27, 1967

Songwriter: Clarence Paul Stevie Wonder

Producer: Henry “Hank” Cosby Clarence Paul

[Verse 1]
I know I've been mean to you lately
And I made you so sad
And I know your love was true, baby
And this makes me feel bad
'Cause now I see I'm about to lose you
And it's driving me mad
You're all I ever had, girl

[Chorus]
Everybody needs somebody like you, oh baby
Everybody needs somebody, and I need you

[Verse 2]
You know, darlin'
Hadn't thought much about it when I left you behind
But now I'm almost certain, baby
When I left, you were cryin'
Oh, I ask myself, how could I do it?
How could I be so blind?
So selfish and unkind

[Chorus]
Everybody needs somebody like you
You'd better believe, darlin'
Everybody needs somebody, and I need you
Ooh yeah...ooh yeah
Everybody needs somebody like you
Somebody...

[Verse 3]
Take these arms and hold you tight
And these lips that can explain
How someone that means you right
Can cause you so much pain
Oh, the only plea to enter for myself
Is that I'm not to blame
Temporarily insane, girl

[Chorus]
Everybody needs somebody like you, oh baby
Everybody needs somebody, and I need you
Yes, I do, darlin'
Everybody needs somebody like you
Oh baby, I need you

Stevie Wonder

Despite losing his sight at a young age, Stevie Wonder went on to become one of the most celebrated soul songwriters of the late 20th century. His songs manage to both innovate and catch the ears of listeners of all dispositions, whilst also being big chart hits.

Incredibly influential amongst musical circles, his voice rendered modern British soul-songwriter James Morrison close to tears the first time he heard it.