It has been six decades since The Temptations first graced the Billboard R&B charts with their debut Motown release, “(You’re My) Dream Come True,” a soulful ballad crafted by Berry Gordy.
This track reached No. 22, securing The Temptations a spot on Gordy’s Motortown Revue and setting the stage for their remarkable journey as one of history’s most celebrated vocal groups.
Within ten years of “(You’re My) Dream Come True,” they had achieved four No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100. Their sound evolved from early iconic hits like “My Girl” to the more ambitious psychedelic soul found in classics such as “Cloud Nine,” which earned Motown its first Grammy, and “Ball of Confusion.”
Here is a subjective countdown of their greatest Temptations Songs, from the timeless “I Want a Love I Can See,” which didn’t chart, to their funky collaboration with Eddie Hazel on “Shakey Ground.”
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25. ‘Psychedelic Shack’ (1969)
The Temptations fully embraced the psychedelic ’60s with “Psychedelic Shack.” This track is a special-effects-laden journey into a funky, dayglo paisley world, praising a place designed to “blow your mind.” It even features a neon sign that beckons, “Come in and take a look at your mind.” Producer Norman Whitfield co-wrote “Psychedelic Shack” with Barrett Strong, known for Motown’s first hit single, “Money (That’s What I Want).” The Temptations deliver this vision with complete conviction, backed by the Funk Brothers’ insistent psychedelic groove. This song reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts, marking it as a significant entry in temptations songs history.
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24. ‘It’s Growing’ (1965)
The toy piano intro of “It’s Growing” is simply sublime. Listeners are often captivated even before David Ruffin begins to sing about his ever-increasing love. The lyrics, unmistakably penned by a young Smokey Robinson with the Miracles’ Pete Moore, capture the essence of burgeoning affection. A sample line: “Like the size of a fish that the man claims broke his reel, it’s growing.” Coming after the massive hit “My Girl,” this song, although peaking at No. 18 on the Hot 100, remains a gem among temptations songs, showcasing Robinson’s songwriting genius.
23. ‘(Loneliness Made Me Realize) It’s You That I Need’ (1967)
“Loneliness Made Me Realize (It’s You That I Need)” is a richly orchestrated masterstroke produced by Norman Whitfield, who co-wrote it with Edward Holland, Jr. It features one of Motown’s most iconic basslines, arguably James Jamerson’s most compelling performance. Jamerson’s groove is evident from the opening verse, even without drums until the second verse. The Temptations’ harmonies weave through David Ruffin’s desperate, raspy pleas, emphasized by the contagious refrain “I need you/Baby, I need you.” This powerful track climbed to No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its place in the list of essential temptations songs.
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22. ‘Masterpiece’ (1973)
“Masterpiece,” written and produced by Whitfield, proudly displays its ambition in its very title and extended length. At nearly 14 minutes, it echoes “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” aiming for a similar epic scale. The song builds for almost four minutes with lush, orchestrated funk before The Temptations enter, delivering Whitfield’s gritty narrative about the neglect of those “down here in the ghetto.” “Masterpiece” topped the R&B charts and reached No. 7 on the Hot 100, demonstrating the group’s capacity for socially conscious temptations songs.
21. ‘Don’t Look Back’ (1965)
Smokey Robinson produced “Don’t Look Back,” reportedly written to highlight Paul Williams, whose lead vocals were often overshadowed by Ruffin and Kendricks. Initially a B-side to “My Baby,” DJs favored “My Baby” with Ruffin, which performed better on charts. However, “Don’t Look Back” became a live performance staple, gaining popularity over time. It now boasts more Spotify streams and numerous covers, from Peter Tosh with Mick Jagger to Elvis Costello, proving its enduring appeal as one of the treasured temptations songs.
20. ‘All I Need’ (1967)
“All I Need” shares a rhythmic resemblance to the Supremes’ “You Can’t Hurry Love.” While it didn’t reach the same chart heights, its energy is equally captivating. The song builds to an irresistible climax, with Ruffin as the unfaithful lover seeking forgiveness. “All I Need” peaked at No. 8 on the Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts, showcasing the group’s knack for creating energetic and relatable temptations songs.
19. ‘I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)’ (1968)
David Ruffin’s final single as a Temptation, “I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You),” penned by Rodger Penzabene, reached No. 1 on the R&B charts. Despite its exceptional quality and Ruffin’s emotionally charged vocal performance, it peaked only at No. 13 on the Hot 100. Ruffin’s delivery, especially on the line “On my bended knees, I’m beggin’ you to stay here with me,” is a powerful expression of despair, reflecting the heartache of Penzabene’s lyrics, reportedly a letter to his unfaithful wife written before his suicide. This song stands as a poignant entry in the collection of temptations songs.
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18. ‘You’re My Everything’ (1967)
Eddie Kendricks’ smooth and soulful lead vocals define “You’re My Everything,” a romantic ballad where he pledges devotion. The opening line, “You surely must know magic girl ’cause you’ve changed my life,” sets a tone of enchantment. Though reminiscent of Smokey Robinson’s style, the lyrics are by Rodger Penzabene. David Ruffin’s grittier bridge vocal provides a dramatic contrast, and he returns for the fadeout. “You’re My Everything” reached No. 6 on the Hot 100, highlighting the group’s versatility in delivering both upbeat and tender temptations songs.
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17. ‘Runaway Child, Running Wild’ (1969)
“Runaway Child, Running Wild” marked The Temptations’ second psychedelic soul hit, crafted by Whitfield and Strong and produced by Whitfield. Inspired by Sly & the Family Stone, it features fuzzy guitar licks and trippy production, foreshadowing Funkadelic, while the lyrics shift to social relevance. It’s a cautionary tale about runaways, siding with parents and depicting harsh street life. Dennis Edwards’ vocals convey the message: “You’re in punishment ’cause your mother wants to raise you in the right way.” This song topped the R&B charts and reached No. 6 on the Hot 100, showcasing the band’s evolution in temptations songs.
16. ‘Since I Lost My Baby’ (1965)
“Since I Lost My Baby,” a melancholic breakup song by Robinson and Warren Moore, produced by Robinson, opens with David Ruffin contrasting his heartache with a beautiful day. Melvin Franklin’s bass punctuates Ruffin’s lines with a deep “Oh yeah.” Ruffin sighs, “But after I’ve been crying all night, the sun is cold and the new days seem old.” The effortless melody and orchestration create one of their prettiest singles. It peaked at No. 17 on the Hot 100 and No. 4 on the R&B charts, a testament to their ability to create poignant temptations songs.
15. ‘I’m Gonna Make You Love Me’ (1968)
“I’m Gonna Make You Love Me,” a cover of a Dee Dee Warwick hit with Diana Ross and the Supremes, highlights the playful chemistry between the groups. Originally written by Gamble and Huff with Jerry Ross and produced by Frank Wilson and Nickolas Ashford, it features Ross and Kendricks playfully vying for affection. Kendricks’ soaring chorus and Ross’ conversational approach create a brilliant dynamic. It reached No. 2 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts, a standout collaboration among temptations songs.
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14. ‘The Way You Do the Things You Do’ (1964)
“The Way You Do the Things You Do” originated as a joke in the Miracles’ station wagon, with Robinson and Bobby Roberts improvising pickup lines. The opening verse, for example, rhymes “You got a smile so bright/you know you coulda been a candle” with “I’m holding you so tight/You know you coulda been a handle.” America was charmed, giving The Temptations their breakthrough hit. Produced by Robinson, it topped the R&B charts and reached No. 11 on the Hot 100, marking a pivotal moment in the history of temptations songs.
13. ‘I Want a Love I Can See’ (1963)
“I Want a Love I Can See,” an early single, is as captivating as their later hits, despite not charting nationally. It became a regional hit in the Midwest and a live show staple. This was the first Temptations single written and produced by Smokey Robinson, whose lyrical genius and Paul Williams’ impassioned vocals shine. “Don’t want a love you have to tell me about,” Williams sings. “That kind of loving I can sure do without.” It established the formula for future temptations songs.
12. ‘I Know (I’m Losing You)’ (1966)
The horn arrangement in “I Know (I’m Losing You)” is remarkable, emphasizing David Ruffin’s raw emotion. Whitfield’s production of this song, co-written with Cornelius Grant and Edward Holland, Jr., is flawless. It builds from a guitar intro and tambourine to Ruffin’s heart-wrenching vocals, punctuated by horns. This track topped the R&B charts and reached No. 8 on the Hot 100, a powerful entry in the canon of temptations songs.
11. ‘Beauty is Only Skin Deep’ (1966)
Whitfield and Edward Holland, Jr. wrote “Beauty is Only Skin Deep,” tasking Ruffin with delivering romantic lines like, “A pretty face you may not possess, but what I like about you is your tenderness.” Ruffin’s vocal performance makes the potentially awkward lyrics sound genuinely romantic. Whitfield’s production revisits the toy piano from “It’s Growing.” This song topped the R&B charts and reached No. 3 on the Hot 100, becoming their highest-charting hit since “My Girl,” and a beloved example of temptations songs.
10. ‘Cloud Nine’ (1968)
“Cloud Nine” introduced Dennis Edwards as the new lead singer and a psychedelic soul direction for The Temptations. Produced by Whitfield and co-written with Strong, it’s a percussive triumph. Edwards’ gritty vocals are powerful, depicting life “in the slums of the city.” He sings of growing up in poverty, “a one-room shack that slept 10 other children beside me.” “Cloud Nine” reached No. 6 on the Hot 100, marking a significant shift in temptations songs.
9. ‘Shakey Ground’ (1975)
“Shakey Ground” was The Temptations’ final R&B chart-topper, a collaboration with Funkadelic guitarist Eddie Hazel and bassist Billy Bass Nelson. Hazel co-wrote the song, contributing to its outstanding funkiness. It inspired covers from Van McCoy to Fishbone and reached No. 26 on the Hot 100. Only their collaboration with Rod Stewart, “The Motown Song,” charted higher since. “Shakey Ground,” with Hazel’s guitar and Edwards’ fiery vocals, is a superior track. Edwards sings, “Girl, you better throw me a life preserver ’cause I’m about to drown in my own tears,” showcasing the enduring appeal of temptations songs even into the disco era.
8. ‘Ball of Confusion (That’s What the World Is Today)’ (1970)
“Ball of Confusion (That’s What the World Is Today)” continued the trend of socially relevant psychedelic soul. Produced and co-written by Whitfield and Strong, it features Edwards, Kendricks, Franklin, and Paul Williams rapping about social ills, from war to taxes and unemployment. The lyrics include the line, “the Beatles’ new record’s a gas,” amidst concerns about “people moving out…because of the color of their skin.” The production uses harmonica and trippy guitar over a hypnotic bass groove. It peaked at No. 3 on the Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts, a powerful statement among temptations songs.
7. ‘Get Ready’ (1966)
Smokey Robinson followed “My Girl” with three more Top 20 hits for The Temptations. “Get Ready,” despite being incredibly catchy, only reached No. 29 on the Hot 100. Eddie Kendricks’ joyful lead vocals, Benny Benjamin’s energetic drumming, and horn accents make it infectious. Kendricks sings, “So, fiddle-ee-dee, fiddle-ee-dum/Look out, baby, ’cause here I come.” “Get Ready” topped the R&B charts, but Robinson’s deal with Gordy led to Whitfield’s “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” becoming the next single, marking a producer shift and a turning point for temptations songs.
6. ‘I Wish It Would Rain’ (1967)
“I Wish It Would Rain,” from its mournful piano intro to Ruffin’s dejected pleas for rain to hide his tears, is among their saddest ballads. Co-written and produced by Whitfield, Penzabene, and Strong, Ruffin captures the pathos of the lyrics: “raindrops will hide my teardrops and no one will ever know that I’m crying.” It topped the R&B charts and reached No. 4 on the Hot 100, a deeply emotional entry in the collection of temptations songs.
5. ‘Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)’ (1971)
“Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)” is a tender ballad that topped both the Hot 100 and R&B charts. Whitfield’s dreamy production sets the stage for Kendricks’ narrative: “Each day through my window I watch her as she passes by/ I say to myself, “You’re such a lucky guy.” But, “in reality, she doesn’t even know me.” It was Kendricks’ final track as a Temptation, a fittingly beautiful conclusion to his tenure and one of the most beloved temptations songs.
4. ‘I Can’t Get Next To You’ (1969)
“I Can’t Get Next To You” was their first Hot 100 chart-topper since “My Girl.” It spent five weeks at No. 1 on the R&B charts. Whitfield’s production, in collaboration with Strong, utilizes the group’s vocal range, giving each Temptation a lead vocal moment. Dennis Edwards asserts his place in the group with impassioned turns. The undeniable groove and vocal interplay make it a standout among temptations songs.
3. ‘Ain’t Too Proud to Beg’ (1966)
“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” led to Gordy entrusting The Temptations to Whitfield. Co-written and produced by Whitfield, it outperformed Robinson’s “Get Ready” on the Hot 100, reaching No. 13. Ruffin’s impassioned vocals, from “I know you want to leave me, but I refuse to let you go” to sweet falsetto, are central. Edward Holland, Jr. wrote lyrics to Whitfield’s instrumental, pushing Ruffin’s vocal range for urgency. The result is a bluesy dance track with a cymbal-heavy beat, staccato horns, and Eddie “Bongo” Brown’s percussion, making it a cornerstone of temptations songs.
2. ‘My Girl’ (1964)
Many consider “My Girl” the quintessential Temptations song, and for good reason. It’s arguably Smokey Robinson’s finest gift, a devoted celebration of his wife, Claudette Rodgers of the Miracles, co-written with Ronnie White. David Ruffin’s lead vocal debut is smooth and perfect. The Temptations topped both pop and R&B charts. Robinson’s production, from the iconic guitar line to the euphoric orchestration, is masterful. The “my girl” hook is unforgettable, making it the signature song of temptations songs.
1. ‘Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone’ (1972)
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” nearly 12 minutes long on “All Directions,” takes almost four minutes before vocals begin, allowing Whitfield to set a tense, dramatic mood with orchestrated soundtrack elements. The wah-wah guitar evokes “Shaft.” Dennis Edwards begins, “the third of September…that was the day that my daddy died.” Melvin Franklin, Richard Street, and Damon Harris join in, creating a sense of multiple children reflecting on their flawed father. Whitfield and Strong wrote the song, initially recording a lesser version with the Undisputed Truth. The Temptations’ version topped the Hot 100 and R&B charts, winning three Grammys. It stands as the pinnacle of temptations songs, showcasing their artistic evolution and lasting impact.
Reach the reporter at [email protected] or 602-444-4495. Follow him on Twitter @EdMasley.
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