Boyz Ii Men - Human Ii (dont Turn Your Back On Me) (2026)
: It was released as part of the Evolution album on September 23, 1997 . Lyrical Themes and Meaning
: The recurring line "Don't take my joy away" uses "joy" as a metaphor for the narrator's spirit, love, and resilience, which they fear losing if their partner turns away. Legacy and Connection to "Evolution" Boyz II Men - Human II (Dont Turn Your Back On Me)
: It frames a narrative of a person who has made a grave error in a relationship and is begging for another chance, asking, "How much should it cost to make things right?". : It was released as part of the
While it wasn't the biggest commercial hit of the album—which was led by tracks like "4 Seasons of Loneliness" and "A Song for Mama"—"Human II" is often cited by fans as a deep-cut favorite that highlights the group's maturity during the late '90s. It further cemented their reputation for "emotional ballads" that resonate across generations. While it wasn't the biggest commercial hit of
Human II (Don't Turn Your Back on Me) Lyrics — Boyz II Men
The song serves as a vulnerable plea for forgiveness and understanding, centered on the shared fallibility of the human experience.
: The track was produced and co-written by the iconic duo Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis , who also produced the original 1986 song by The Human League. All four original Boyz II Men members— Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Michael McCary —are credited as co-writers.