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The Temptations – My Girl – 1964

About The Song

“My Girl” is a timeless soul classic by The Temptations, released in 1964. Known for its sweet melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the silky-smooth vocals of David Ruffin, the song has become one of The Temptations’ most iconic and enduring hits. “My Girl” is celebrated for its romantic themes and remains a quintessential example of Motown’s golden era.

5 Facts about The Temptations’ “My Girl” (1964):

  1. Songwriting Credits: “My Girl” was written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of The Miracles, two prominent figures in the Motown songwriting and production team. The songwriting duo crafted a beautiful and timeless ballad that showcased The Temptations’ vocal prowess.
  2. David Ruffin’s Lead Vocals: David Ruffin, a member of The Temptations, delivered the lead vocals for “My Girl.” His smooth and emotive singing style became synonymous with the song and contributed significantly to its success. Ruffin’s performance on “My Girl” is often regarded as one of the finest in soul music.
  3. Chart-Topping Success: “My Girl” reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965, becoming The Temptations’ first number-one hit. The song’s universal appeal and crossover success made it a landmark achievement for the group and solidified their status as Motown superstars.
  4. Iconic Bassline: The bassline in “My Girl,” played by James Jamerson, is often noted for its simplicity and effectiveness. Jamerson’s bassline perfectly complements the song’s gentle rhythm and enhances the overall emotional impact of the music.
  5. Cultural Impact: “My Girl” has had a lasting impact on popular culture and has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. Its inclusion in various soundtracks and its use in media continue to introduce new generations to the classic sounds of Motown and The Temptations.

Video

Lyrics

I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day
When it’s cold outside
I’ve got the month of May
I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way

My girl, my girl, my girl
Talkin’ ’bout my girl
My girl

I’ve got so much honey
The bees envy me
I’ve got a sweeter song
Than the birds in the trees
Well, I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way

My girl, my girl, my girl
Talkin’ ’bout my girl
My girl
Ohh ohh
Hey hey hey

Hey hey hey
Oh yeah

I don’t need no money, fortune, or fame
I’ve got all the riches baby one man can claim
Well I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way

My girl, my girl, my girl
Talkin’ ’bout my girl, my girl, talkin’ ’bout my girl
I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day with my girl
I’ve even got the month of May with my girl
Talkin’ ’bout, talkin’ ’bout, talkin’ ’bout