It was written by Commodores member William King, his wife, Shirley, and Harold Hudson, a member of the Commodores' backing group, The Mean Machine.

Lionel Richie sang lead vocals, and it was one of the group's last big hits before he left for a solo career.

Record World noted that Ritchie's vocal is backed by "shimmering strings and a driving rhythm.

"[1] The music video features the band members playing a six-a-side soccer match with a group of women players.

[2] "Lady (You Bring Me Up)" was Grammy-nominated in the category of Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.