"(what can i say) to make you love me" is a song written by jimmy jam and terry lewis and recorded by american recording artist alexander o'neal. it is the fifth single from the singer's second solo album, "hearsay" (1987). the song's distinctive backing vocals were performed by lisa keith. following the successful chart performances of the "hearsay" singles "fake", "criticize", "never knew love like this", and "the lovers", "(what can i say) to make you love me" was released as the album's fifth single.