Maybe Tomorrow Is Released

In April 1971, the Jackson 5 release Maybe Tomorrow, their fifth studio album on Motown. The album follows the success of Third Album and Christmas Album, continuing their streak of hit releases. By this point, the group has firmly established itself as one of Motown’s biggest acts, with Michael’s youthful yet soulful voice driving their sound.

The lead single, “Never Can Say Goodbye,” is released in March 1971, a month before the album. Written by Clifton Davis, the song departs from the Jackson 5’s usual upbeat, bubblegum soul and leans into a more mature, emotional ballad style. The single quickly becomes a major hit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the R&B chart. It also reaches No. 33 in the UK. The song is later covered by artists like Gloria Gaynor and the Communards, solidifying its place as a classic.

When Maybe Tomorrow is released, it continues the Jackson 5’s commercial momentum. The album reaches No. 11 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart and No. 3 on the R&B chart. Alongside “Never Can Say Goodbye,” the title track, “Maybe Tomorrow,” is released as the second single in June 1971. Another ballad showcasing Michael’s emotive delivery, the song reaches No. 20 on the Hot 100 and No. 3 on the R&B chart.

Although Maybe Tomorrow does not match the explosive success of the Jackson 5’s first two albums, it highlights a shift in their musical style. The group begins incorporating more sophisticated arrangements and deeper emotional themes, a sign of their evolving artistry. The album eventually goes platinum, further cementing the Jackson 5’s status as Motown’s leading group of the early ’70s.