"Got to Be There" is the debut single written by Elliot Willensky for American recording artist Michael Jackson, whose original version was released as his first solo single in 1971 on Motown Records. The song was produced by Hal Davis and recorded at Motown's Hitsville West studios in Hollywood.
The single became an immediate success, reaching number one on Cashbox's pop and R&B singles charts, while reaching number four on Billboard's pop and R&B singles charts.[1] Released to select European countries, it also found success, reaching number five in the UK.[2] The song was composed as a pop ballad with soul and soft rock elements. The song was musically arranged by Dave Blumberg while Willie Hutch produced its vocal arrangements.