This was the first Jackson 5 hit not written by "The Corporation," a collection of Motown writers lead by the chief of the label, Berry Gordy. The Corporation were based in California, unlike most Motown writers, who were in the Detroit offices. This song was written by Hal Davis (who also produced it), Bob West, Willie Hutch, and Berry Gordy.

In this song, a man tells his former lover that he will always be there for her, and that even if she finds someone new, she can always go back to him.

The lead vocals were shared by Michael and Jermaine Jackson. 

In 1975 Gloria Gaynor recorded a Disco cover of this entitled 'Reach Out, I'll Be There," which peaked at #14 in the UK and #60 in the US.