The Return of the Magnificent Seven


The Return of the Magnificent Seven is the second collaborative album between Motown label-mates the Supremes and Four Tops, released in 1971. The lead single, "You Gotta Have Love In Your Heart" was essentially a Jean Terrell solo with Levi Stubbs patched in for all of four verses. Just as the single was beginning to take off, Motown mysteriously pulled it. Some speculated that this had to do with negotiations with the Four Tops to renew with the label while others hypothesized that the Supremes were outselling Diana Ross as a solo and Motown withdrew promotion. In any event, Stubbs was bitter about this album's failure and it further convinced the Four Tops to leave Motown the following year and sign with ABC Dunhill.

Critical reception

In a contemporary review Cashbox published:

'What was that you were saying about supergroups and supersessions? Give a listen to what may be the last word on the subjects. Joining together of these two dynamic groups results in an LP which is chock full of excitement and charm. "You Gotta Have Love In Your Heart" kicks the set off and it's non-stop action all, the way through as the seven take on a bevy of new songs, along with the standard "Call Me." Should find a ready following among fans of both groups.'

Track listing

  1. "You Gotta Have Love in Your Heart"
  2. "I Wonder Where We're Going"
  3. "Call Me"
  4. "One More Bridge to Cross"
  5. "If You Could See Me Now"
  6. "I'll Try Not to Cry"
  7. "I'm Glad About It"
  8. "Let's Make Love Now"
  9. "I Can't Believe You Love Me"
  10. "Where Would I Be Without You Baby"
  11. "What Do You Have to Do "

Personnel