Michael famously had to ask the songwriter what the word "anguish" meant before recording.
The "deep story" of Michael Jackson’s "Never Can Say Goodbye" lies in its transition from a song intended for a female group to a definitive moment of vocal maturity for a 12-year-old Michael Jackson. Originally written by actor and songwriter for The Supremes , Motown executives decided it was a better fit for The Jackson 5 . 🎶 The Story Behind the Song
At just 12, Michael had to record a "grown-up" song about the agonizing cycle of a failing relationship.