The Temptations, a name synonymous with soulful harmonies and groundbreaking performances, have captivated audiences for six decades. Starting from their humble beginnings at Motown, their journey began with “(You’re My) Dream Come True,” a song that marked their entry into the Billboard R&B charts and launched a legendary career. This marked the start of an era defining sound, evolving from the classic charm of “My Girl” to the psychedelic depths of “Cloud Nine” and the socially conscious “Ball of Confusion.” Their innovative soundscapes not only topped charts but also earned Motown its first Grammy, solidifying their place in music history.
This article offers an unapologetically curated list of their 25 greatest songs, celebrating their timeless music, from hidden gems like “I Want a Love I Can See” to the funk-infused energy of “Shakey Ground.” Dive into the world of The Temptations and explore the songs that have defined generations.
25. ‘Psychedelic Shack’ (1969)
The Temptations fully embraced the psychedelic era with “Psychedelic Shack,” a vibrant track layered with special effects. This song is a testament to their willingness to experiment and evolve. It praises a mind-expanding place, complete with a neon sign inviting listeners to explore their minds. Co-written by producer Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, who penned Motown’s first hit, “Money (That’s What I Want),” this track features the Funk Brothers delivering a compelling psychedelic groove. “Psychedelic Shack” showcased The Temptations’ commitment to pushing musical boundaries, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts.
The Temptations’ “Psychedelic Shack” album cover, showcasing the psychedelic soul era of the band.
24. ‘It’s Growing’ (1965)
“It’s Growing” opens with an enchanting toy piano intro, immediately drawing listeners into David Ruffin’s heartfelt expression of ever-increasing love. Penned by the legendary Smokey Robinson with Pete Moore of the Miracles, the lyrics are instantly recognizable as Robinson’s work, filled with vivid and relatable imagery. The song beautifully captures the overwhelming nature of growing affection with lines like, “Like the size of a fish that the man claims broke his reel, it’s growing.” Coming after the massive hit “My Girl,” “It’s Growing” reached No. 18 on the Hot 100, solidifying their consistent presence on the charts with quality songs.
The Temptations group portrait from 1965, featuring David Ruffin, during their early Motown years.
23. ‘(Loneliness Made Me Realize) It’s You That I Need’ (1967)
A testament to masterful orchestration and production, “(Loneliness Made Me Realize) It’s You That I Need” is a standout track produced by Norman Whitfield, who co-wrote it with Edward Holland, Jr. The song is anchored by one of Motown’s most unforgettable basslines, courtesy of James Jamerson, whose performance alone could define bassline brilliance. Even without drums in the opening verse, Jamerson lays down a groove that’s both subtle and powerful. Ruffin’s raw, emotional vocals convey desperation, amplified by the Temptations’ emphatic refrain, “I need you/Baby, I need you.” This song reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing their reputation for soulful depth.
David Ruffin, the lead singer of The Temptations, delivering a passionate live performance.
22. ‘Masterpiece’ (1973)
“Masterpiece,” written and produced by Norman Whitfield, is an ambitious and epic track. Its title boldly declares its intent, and at nearly 14 minutes long, it’s clear Whitfield aimed for another “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone”-level creation. Following a similar formula, the song builds a rich, cinematic funk soundscape for almost four minutes before The Temptations’ vocals enter. When they do, they deliver Whitfield’s poignant lyrics about social inequality and ghetto life with profound emotion: “nobody cares what happens to folks down here in the ghetto.” “Masterpiece” topped the R&B charts and reached No. 7 on the Hot 100, showcasing their ability to create impactful, extended tracks.
21. ‘Don’t Look Back’ (1965)
Produced by Smokey Robinson, “Don’t Look Back” is a soulful gem reportedly written to highlight the talent of Paul Williams, an original lead singer whose contributions were sometimes overshadowed by Ruffin and Kendricks. Initially a B-side, DJs favored “My Baby,” featuring Ruffin, for the A-side. While “My Baby” performed better initially on charts, “Don’t Look Back” became a beloved closing number for their live shows. Its reputation grew over time, now boasting more Spotify streams and numerous covers by artists like Peter Tosh and Elvis Costello, proving its enduring appeal and quality.
20. ‘All I Need’ (1967)
“All I Need” carries a rhythmic similarity to the Supremes’ hit “You Can’t Hurry Love,” which topped charts the previous summer. While it didn’t achieve the same chart-topping success, “All I Need” is equally energetic and irresistible. It builds to a powerful climax, with Ruffin portraying an unfaithful lover seeking forgiveness, promising to “undo the wrong I’ve done.” The song’s infectious energy and relatable theme of seeking redemption resonated with audiences, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts.
19. ‘I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)’ (1968)
The final single featuring David Ruffin as lead vocalist, “I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)” is a powerful and emotional farewell. It was their second consecutive single with lyrics by Rodger Penzabene and topped Billboard’s R&B charts. Despite its R&B success, it reached only No. 13 on the Hot 100. Ruffin delivers a tortured, intense vocal performance, especially in the plea, “On my bended knees, I’m beggin’ you to stay here with me,” perfectly capturing the heartache of the lyrics, rumored to be an open letter from Penzabene to his unfaithful wife. Penzabene tragically died by suicide before the single’s release, adding a layer of poignancy to the song.
18. ‘You’re My Everything’ (1967)
Eddie Kendricks’ smooth and soulful lead vocals define “You’re My Everything,” one of The Temptations’ most romantic ballads. Kendricks sets a tone of deep devotion, starting with the line, “You surely must know magic girl ’cause you’ve changed my life.” While the lyrics might evoke Smokey Robinson’s style, this was the first of four Temptations singles penned by Rodger Penzabene. David Ruffin’s grittier vocals on the bridge provide a dramatic contrast, adding depth and emotion before Kendricks returns to close the song. “You’re My Everything” reached No. 6 on Billboard’s Hot 100, showcasing their versatility in delivering both upbeat and tender songs.
Eddie Kendricks, known for his falsetto vocals, performing with The Temptations in 1972.
17. ‘Runaway Child, Running Wild’ (1969)
“Runaway Child, Running Wild” marked The Temptations’ second foray into psychedelic soul, again written and produced by Whitfield and Strong. Inspired by Otis Williams’ exposure to Sly & the Family Stone, the song incorporated fuzz guitar and trippy production, foreshadowing early Funkadelic. Lyrically, it shifted towards social relevance, delivering a cautionary tale about runaway youth. Dennis Edwards’ vocals convey a sense of parental concern, as he sings, “You’re in punishment ’cause your mother wants to raise you in the right way,” reflecting the societal issues of the time. The song topped the R&B charts and reached No. 6 on Billboard’s Hot 100, showing their ability to innovate and stay relevant.
16. ‘Since I Lost My Baby’ (1965)
“Since I Lost My Baby,” a melancholic breakup song, was written by Robinson and Warren Moore and produced by Robinson. It opens with Ruffin contrasting his inner sorrow with the beauty of a new day, underscored by lush orchestration and Melvin Franklin’s deep bass vocals punctuating the lines with “Oh yeah.” Ruffin’s poignant delivery of lines like, “But after I’ve been crying all night, the sun is cold and the new days seem old,” captures the depth of heartbreak. The song’s effortless melody and orchestration make it one of their most beautiful recordings, reaching No. 17 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and No. 4 on the R&B charts.
15. ‘I’m Gonna Make You Love Me’ (1968)
A collaboration with Diana Ross and the Supremes, “I’m Gonna Make You Love Me” is a vibrant cover of a Dee Dee Warwick hit. Produced by Frank Wilson and Nickolas Ashford, it showcases playful chemistry between the groups. Ross and Kendricks trade verses, each vowing to win the other’s love, navigating the melody with charm. Kendricks’ soaring vocals on the chorus and Ross’ conversational approach create a dynamic interplay. The song peaked at No. 2 on both the Hot 100 and R&B charts, highlighting the successful partnership between these Motown giants.
14. ‘The Way You Do the Things You Do’ (1964)
“The Way You Do the Things You Do” originated from playful songwriting in the Miracles’ station wagon during the Motortown Revue. Smokey Robinson and Bobby Roberts improvised pickup lines, resulting in lyrics like, “You got a smile so bright/you know you coulda been a candle” rhyming with “I’m holding you so tight/You know you coulda been a handle.” This playful charm captivated America, giving The Temptations their breakthrough hit after initial struggles. Produced by Robinson, it topped the R&B charts and reached No. 11 on the Hot 100, setting the stage for their future success.
13. ‘I Want a Love I Can See’ (1963)
An early single that didn’t chart nationally, “I Want a Love I Can See” is as captivating as their later hits. It became a regional hit in the Midwest and a staple in their live performances. This song marked the beginning of the successful Robinson-Temptations collaboration, showcasing Robinson’s lyrical genius and Paul Williams’ impassioned vocals. Williams’ heartfelt delivery of lines like, “Don’t want a love you have to tell me about,” resonates with its direct and honest expression of love.
12. ‘I Know (I’m Losing You)’ (1966)
“I Know (I’m Losing You)” features an amazing horn arrangement that underscores Ruffin’s emotional performance. Produced by Norman Whitfield, who co-wrote it with Cornelius Grant and Edward Holland, Jr., the song builds from a classic guitar intro to a horn-driven chorus. Ruffin’s vocals convey a sense of heartbreak and resignation as he realizes he’s losing his love. The instrumental break further amplifies the song’s emotional depth. It topped the R&B charts and reached No. 8 on Billboard’s Hot 100, showcasing their ability to blend soulfulness with instrumental brilliance.
11. ‘Beauty is Only Skin Deep’ (1966)
Whitfield and Edward Holland, Jr. penned “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 is key to the song’s charm, making potentially awkward lyrics sound genuinely romantic. Whitfield’s production revisits the toy piano from “It’s Growing,” adding a touch of whimsy. The song topped the R&B charts and reached No. 3 on the Hot 100, their highest-charting hit since “My Girl.”
10. ‘Cloud Nine’ (1968)
“Cloud Nine” marked a significant shift for The Temptations, introducing Dennis Edwards as the new lead singer and a psychedelic soul direction. Produced by Whitfield and co-written with Strong, the song is a percussive triumph. Edwards’ gritty vocals are as powerful as Ruffin’s, delivering unflinching lyrics about poverty and hardship: “in the slums of the city,” “a one-room shack that slept 10 other children beside me.” “Cloud Nine” earned Motown its first Grammy and reached No. 6 on the Hot 100, signaling a bold new chapter for the group.
Dennis Edwards, the dynamic lead singer who replaced David Ruffin, performing with The Temptations.
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, infusing it with outstanding funk guitar riffs. Edwards delivers a fiery lead vocal, with lines like, “Girl, you better throw me a life preserver ’cause I’m about to drown in my own tears.” The song inspired numerous covers and reached No. 26 on the Hot 100. It stands out as a superior track compared to their later collaboration with Rod Stewart, showcasing their enduring funk prowess.
8. ‘Ball of Confusion (That’s What the World Is Today)’ (1970)
“Ball of Confusion” continued The Temptations’ exploration of socially relevant psychedelic soul. Produced and co-written by Whitfield and Strong, it features Edwards, Kendricks, Franklin, and Paul Williams rapping through a list of social issues, from war and poverty to political disillusionment. The lyrics, “People moving out, people moving in/ Why? Because of the color of their skin,” directly address racial tensions. The production incorporates harmonica and trippy guitar effects, creating a hypnotic groove. “Ball of Confusion” peaked at No. 3 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B charts, reflecting the era’s social consciousness.
7. ‘Get Ready’ (1966)
Despite being incredibly catchy, “Get Ready” surprisingly peaked at No. 29 on the Hot 100. Written and produced by Robinson, it’s filled with joy, from Kendricks’ sweet falsetto and Motown drummer Benny Benjamin’s energetic performance to the punctuating horns. Kendricks’ playful lyrics, “So, fiddle-ee-dee, fiddle-ee-dum/Look out, baby, ’cause here I come,” exemplify the song’s lightheartedness. “Get Ready” topped the R&B charts, but a deal between Robinson and Gordy led to Whitfield taking over as The Temptations’ main producer after “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” proved more successful, marking a shift in their sound.
6. ‘I Wish It Would Rain’ (1967)
“I Wish It Would Rain” is a deeply mournful ballad, from its gospel-tinged piano intro to Ruffin’s sorrowful vocals. Co-written and produced by Whitfield, Penzabene, and Strong, it captures profound sadness. Ruffin’s emotional delivery of lines like, “eyes search the skies, desperately, for rain ’cause raindrops will hide my teardrops,” conveys intense heartbreak. The song topped the R&B charts and reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot 100, demonstrating their ability to evoke deep emotion through music.
5. ‘Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)’ (1971)
“Just My Imagination” is a tender ballad that topped both the Hot 100 and R&B charts. Whitfield’s dreamy production sets the stage for Kendricks’ poignant lyrics about unrequited love: “Each day through my window I watch her as she passes by/ I say to myself, “You’re such a lucky guy”/ To have a girl like her is truly a dream come true/ Out of all the fellows in the world, she belongs to me.” The song’s premise and Kendricks’ heartfelt performance, his last as a Temptation, made it a defining hit.
4. ‘I Can’t Get Next To You’ (1969)
“I Can’t Get Next To You” marked The Temptations’ first Hot 100 chart-topper since “My Girl.” It spent five weeks at No. 1 on the R&B charts, driven by its undeniable groove and Whitfield’s production. Written with Strong, it features all five Temptations in lead vocal roles, showcasing their individual talents. Edwards firmly established his place in the group with his impassioned vocal turns after Ruffin’s departure. The song’s dynamic vocal interplay and infectious rhythm solidified its chart-topping status.
3. ‘Ain’t Too Proud to Beg’ (1966)
“Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” led to Norman Whitfield becoming The Temptations’ main producer, surpassing Robinson’s “Get Ready” on the Hot 100, where it peaked at No. 13. Ruffin delivers one of his most impassioned vocals, from the opening line, “I know you want to leave me, but I refuse to let you go,” to his signature falsetto. Holland, Jr.’s lyrics, written to Whitfield’s melody, pushed Ruffin’s vocal range, creating a sense of urgency. The production is an unrelenting bluesy dance track, driven by a cymbal-heavy beat, staccato horns, and Eddie “Bongo” Brown’s percussion.
2. ‘My Girl’ (1964)
“My Girl” is arguably The Temptations’ signature song and a strong contender for No. 1. Written by Smokey Robinson and Ronnie White, it’s a devoted ode to love, inspired by Robinson’s wife, Claudette Rodgers of the Miracles. Ruffin’s lead vocals are smoother than his later work, perfectly capturing the song’s tender emotion. Robinson’s production, from the iconic guitar line to the euphoric orchestration, is masterful. The echoing “my girl” hook is unforgettable. “My Girl” topped both the pop and R&B charts, becoming a timeless classic.
1. ‘Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone’ (1972)
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” claims the top spot as The Temptations’ greatest song. The nearly 12-minute album version dedicates its first four minutes to setting a tense, dramatic mood through Whitfield’s orchestrated soundtrack, reminiscent of the “Shaft” theme. Edwards’ vocals begin the narrative on “the third of September,” recounting the day his father died. The song unfolds to include Melvin Franklin, Richard Street, and Damon Harris, creating a collective voice of children reflecting on their flawed father. Whitfield and Strong’s songwriting and production are groundbreaking. Despite an earlier, less successful version by the Undisputed Truth, The Temptations’ rendition topped the Hot 100 and R&B charts and won three Grammys, cementing its status as a masterpiece.
The Temptations performing “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” a song known for its cinematic and extended musical arrangement.
