About the song
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is an iconic song penned by the talented songwriting duo Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson in 1966. Initially composed for the Tamla label, a division of Motown, the track first made its mark in the music world through its 1967 recording by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. This version became a significant hit, charting in the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at number three on the R&B charts. The song’s upbeat and soulful sound captured the essence of the 1960s rhythm and blues era, making it a quintessential example of the genre.
The journey of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is as compelling as its melody. Before the song’s release, Ashford and Simpson, who had not yet joined Motown, were eager to showcase their work and secure a place within the prestigious label. Their strategy included holding back the song from British soul singer Dusty Springfield, whom they believed would elevate their chances with Motown. As Valerie Simpson recounted, they viewed the song as a “golden egg” with the potential to be their key to breaking into the Detroit-based label.
The success of the Gaye/Terrell version was not just a one-time affair. It led to a series of popular duets by the pair, including classics such as “You’re All I Need to Get By” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing.” This collaboration left an indelible mark on the music industry, and in 1999, their version of the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, solidifying its timeless appeal.
The song’s reach extended beyond its initial success, finding a place in several films, including the 1998 movie *Stepmom*, the 2000 film *Remember the Titans*, and the 2014 blockbuster *Guardians of the Galaxy*. Each use of the song in these films helped introduce it to new generations of listeners, ensuring its place as a beloved classic.
In 1970, Diana Ross brought a fresh interpretation to the song, making it her first solo number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. This version further cemented the song’s status in music history, demonstrating its versatility and enduring charm.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” remains a powerful anthem of love and perseverance, continuing to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
Video
Lyrics
Listen baby, ain’t no mountain high
Ain’t no valley low, ain’t no river wide enough, baby
If you need me call me, no matter where you are
No matter how far, don’t worry, baby
Just call my name, I’ll be there in a hurry
You don’t have to worry
‘Cause, baby, there ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
Ain’t no river wide enough
To keep me from getting to you, babe
Remember the day I set you free
I told you you could always count on me, darling
From that day on, I made a vow
I’ll be there when you want me
Some way, somehow
‘Cause, baby, there ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
Ain’t no river wide enough
To keep me from getting to you, babe
Oh no, darling
No wind, no rain
Or winter’s cold can stop me, baby, na na, baby
‘Cause you are my goal
If you’re ever in trouble
I’ll be there on the double
Just send for me, oh, baby, ha
My love is alive (woo)
Way down in my heart
Although we are miles apart
If you ever need a helping hand
I’ll be there on the double
Just as fast as I can
Don’t you know that there
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
Ain’t no river wide enough
To keep me from getting to you, babe
Don’tcha know that there
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
Ain’t no river wide enough
Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough