The Temptations - Songs

ABOUT

The Temptations are a highly acclaimed and veteran R&B group from Detroit that became famous in the 1960s as one of Motown's top acts. Formed in 1961, The Temptations, who were first known as the Elgins (not to be confused with the Elgins of "Darling Baby" fame), were made up of members of two Detroit area doo wop groups known as the Primes and the Distants. The original group lineup, which consisted of Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin (October 12, 1942 - February 23, 1995), Elbridge "Al" Bryant (September 28, 1939 - October 26, 1975), Eddie Kendricks (December 17, 1939 - October 5, 1992), and Paul Williams (July 2, 1939 - August 17, 1973), signed on with Motown in early 1961 as the Elgins. This five-man group shortly thereafter became known as The Temptations. The name change was prompted by Berry Gordy's discovery that that there was already a singing group called the Elgins.

In 1962, The Temptations debuted nationally with "Dream Come True," which became a Top 40 hit on the R&B charts. In 1964, David Ruffin replaced Bryant, and the group's fame really took off in early 1965 with the smash hit, "My Girl." This hit was followed by a very long string of hits on both the Pop/Rock and R&B charts that also included "I Can't Get To You" (1969), "Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)" (1971), "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone" (1972), and "The Motown Song" (with Rod Stewart) (1991).

The Temptations, who still tour and perform to this day, have a long history with numerous personnel changes. Over the years, four of the five original members have been replaced (as well as most of their successors), and the most notable newer members through the 1970s have included lead singers David Ruffin and Dennis Edwards (both later solo artists), Richard Street, Damon Harris, and Glenn Leonard. The only original member remaining is Otis Williams.

The Temptations were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

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VIDEO CLIP

The Temptations perform "Get Ready" on The Ed Sullivan Show (January 31, 1971).

Available on iTunes and on the following DVDs: Rock n' Roll Classics - 7 DVD Set; (more)

SONGS

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The Temptations

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