About the song
Released on May 16, 1961, “Cupid” by Sam Cooke is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners more than six decades later. This song not only showcases Cooke’s silky-smooth voice but also highlights his exceptional songwriting talent. Initially, Cooke’s producers had asked him to write a song for a girl they had seen on a Perry Como TV show. However, after hearing her sing, they decided that “Cupid” was better suited for Cooke himself—a decision that undoubtedly contributed to the song’s enduring success.
“Cupid” achieved significant chart success upon its release. In the United States, it reached number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 20 on the Hot R&B Sides chart. However, its greatest success came in the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number seven on the UK Singles Chart. This international acclaim helped cement Cooke’s reputation as a leading figure in the music industry and introduced his work to a broader audience.
The song features contributions from several of Cooke’s regular session musicians, who helped bring his vision to life. Clifton White and Rene Hall provided the distinctive guitar work, Clifford Hills played bass, Earl Palmer handled the drums, and Joseph Gibbons added depth with both guitar and banjo. Their collective efforts resulted in a rich, layered sound that perfectly complemented Cooke’s vocal performance.
“Cupid” has been celebrated not only by fans but also by critics. In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked it at number 452 on their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” and it held a slightly adjusted position at number 458 in the 2010 update of the list. An AllMusic critic lauded the track as a “perfect pop song,” noting its seamless blend of Latin, R&B, jazz, and mainstream pop elements. This fusion of genres highlights Cooke’s versatility and ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries.
In addition to its initial success, “Cupid” has enjoyed lasting popularity, being featured on Cooke’s greatest hits album, The Best of Sam Cooke, released in 1962. This collection introduced the song to new generations of listeners and ensured that its legacy would endure.
Sam Cooke’s “Cupid” remains a shining example of his genius as a singer and songwriter. The song’s catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and masterful production have solidified its place in the annals of music history. As one of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” “Cupid” continues to inspire and delight listeners around the world, a testament to Cooke’s enduring influence and the timeless appeal of his music.
Video
Lyrics
Cupid, draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover’s heart for me, for me
Cupid, please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Now I don’t mean to bother you but I’m in distress
There’s danger of me losing all of my happiness
For I love a girl who doesn’t know I exist
And this you can fix, so
Cupid, draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Nobody but me
Cupid, please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Now, Cupid if your arrow make a love storm for me
I promise I will love her until eternity
I know between the two of us, her heart we can steal
Help me if you will, so
Cupid, draw back your bow
And let your arrow go
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Nobody but me
Cupid, please hear my cry
And let your arrow fly
Straight to my lover’s heart for me
Now, Cupid, don’t you hear me
Calling you? I need ya
Cupid, help me, I need you
Cupid, don’t fail me