I got to meet Smokey in an airport once. He was surrounded by fans who just wanted to say hi. His staff tried to move him along. His comment was priceless and shows how much he respected and loved his fans. He turned to his staff and said "These people are our friends and fans; it is thes wonderful people who have paid our bills for years. I will always take the time to thank our fans and shake as many hands as I can!". Great man.
Same thing happened to me. I sat across the aisle from him and called my daughter. She told me to take picture with him. Shy to ask I did and he was so so gracious. All the attendants knew him and friendly to all.
@@paulpartin8208 Smokey was thrilled that the Beatles sent him their first album, with a note thanking him for being such a big influence on them. Sweet, sweet man.
"My Girl" became my song for my girlfriend/future wife when I met her in 1968. I realize that millions of other guys made "My Girl" their love song for their sweetheart. She passed away 3 years ago but will always be "My Girl."
I was widowed two years ago. She died in my arms, an angel from Ohio who left me in a lonely world no longer filled with love. I loved her to the end and will love her to my end. God bless your girl and you.
Prof, thank you so much for covering this song! Smokey Robinson did a casino tour in the early 2000s and they would contract local orchestral musicians to play the string parts. I was lucky enough to be contracted as one of the violinists for three of these casino performances. To be on the same stage as him was the single most amazing musical experience of my life! Since Smokey wrote it, he always performs it. So I got to play that magnificent orchestral string solo in the middle, live! It was the absolute highlight of my 35-year career. And I even got to meet him, very briefly, before his sound check, one night. I told him how my mom would play his records and other Motown records throughout my childhood, and thanked him for his music. He said 'oh thank you that's so wonderful!' And he reached out and gave me a hug. Then he kissed my cheek and said 'that's for your mom'. He was so gracious and I will cherish those memories forever! Thank you Smokey!
That's awesome! What a wonderful experience. He sounds like he was a lovely guy, from everything I have heard about him. Not to mention seriously talented! Your mum has great taste ❤
That's awesome! What a wonderful experience. He sounds like he was a lovely guy, from everything I have heard about him. Not to mention seriously talented! Your mum has great taste ❤
O my gosh, I am welling up! That is the sweetest thing I've ever heard. I can only imagine what it was like to perform that. I'm so glad for you and your mom.
65-95 was an insane run. It was so good it's going to take another generation or two before it comes back. Hopefully the next genres of music will be conceived by then, because we've beaten rock to death with nostalgic rules. Hip hop isn't far behind either.
Decades ago, my wife answered the phones for a company that Robinson used. Robinson would make his own calls and my wife would talk to him. She says he was absolutely down to earth, no big shot behavior from him at all. Great guy all the way around. This story totally fits what my wife has said about him.
I wish people would listen to and take to heart what this man is actually saying the last 2 minutes of the interview. He is a man of honor and respect. His wisdom needs to be shared and received.
My sister and I went to a concert featuring the Temptations and the Four Tops at a venue in Anaheim, California. The Temptations were on stage and we both desperately wanted a cigarette. In those days, there was no smoking inside the theater, but it was allowed in the lobby area. But, how could we leave when the Temptations were on stage? I know!.. We'll wait for a song that we don't know all the lyrics to! The song came, and we quickly ran to the lobby. There were quite a lot of people in the lobby also trying to get a quick smoke. Suddenly, we all heard seven base notes that shocked the lobby into silence. Everybody screamed, threw their cigarettes in the direction of the ash cans scattered about, and RAN back into the theater! That's one of the strongest memories I have of that night!
I'm kind of surprised that there is a song you didn't know...lol. I know, after a million albums and songs, we don't know them all, but the only way the Temptations would play one is if they needed a break. Heading off to my psychedelic shack...peace.
Nice interview with Otis Williams. I always liked the David Ruffin years of the Temptations. Their sound evolved with the times as well as line up changes. As for "My Girl", Otis Williams said it best - when you listen, you just knew it was going to be big. The greatest thing about the Temptations - none of them needed autotune. They were all great singers.
I was 7 years old when this song premiered. It hit me & every kid my age right between the eyes. This, James Brown's " I Feel Good" & The Beatles " I want To Hold Your Hand " had the same effect. There had never been anything like those songs. You couldn't believe mere mortals had created them. 60 years later & it still sounds fresh. As a child I vacillated between wanting to be a super-hero or a Temptation. Being tone deaf & having no rhythm & not being bitten by a radioactive spider let know both dreams were out of reach.
My dear daddy used to sing this to me when I was a wee girl. I was born in 1965. My daddy passed nine years ago, but this song always makes me smile at the thought that I was and always will be daddy's girl! ❤
A special dad for sure. I hope you treasure those memories. Lost my father 14 years ago and he was my hero. You are 2 years older than me but we grew up in the best time in the world. Music was great for the first 3 decades of our lives. I hear songs today and I am swept away to my childhood and all the innocents we had back then.
I used to be a music teacher. A group of girls who were my students back in the day formed a band and they asked me to mentor them. We recruited 4 boy classmates for the rhythm section. One of the songs on their repertoire was My Girl. The moment we first performed it in front of the faculty, co students and their parents. When that bass line was played, the response was immediate. And they were all singing along. THIS IS THE LEGACY OF MY GIRL.
I was a nine year old in grade school when My Girl was a number one hit. Had two wonderful daughters rather late in life, now about to turn 23 and 20. I remember how much we enjoyed daddy-daughter dances. When my younger daughter was around nine. the DJ played my girl and saw me singing every word as I held my daughter tight. Suddenly, I had a mic in my face and it was Kareoke night... I belted out the tune with my best Temps imitation. It has been "our" song ever since. I have been told in no uncertain terms that "My Girl" will be our dance song the day she gets married. Thank you Smokey for that bass line that always puts a smile on my face. Thank you Temps for harmonies that always bring tears of joy!
It's amazing when you stop and think about it. The Temptations have been part of the soundtrack of my entire life and of a big chunk of this countries. It's an incredible legacy and I think, well deserved.
My Girl holds a special place in my heart. It was the daddy/daughter dance at my youngest daughter's wedding. She could not have picked a better song. On the way out of a restaurant this evening, having dinner with my daughter and her family, I heard My Girl. I get home and turn on The Professor of Rock, and there the song is again. It will forever be one of my favorites. Thanks Adam.
Otis is so down to earth...what an absolute gentleman! And his view on today's music and society...SPOT ON!!! Great man, part of a great group, and they have made one of the greatest songs!
When my son was two he would sing My Girl from the top of his lungs from his high chair. Never got video of it. One of my life regrets. He’s 33 now and loves karaoke.
I remember I was seven years old going to Washington DC from a small town in Tennessee, with my family going to visit my uncle and aunt. My mom and I would sing along every time this song came on the radio. Such a great memory.
I'm totally confident that Smokey never minded another group making the song a huge hit.....when he realized the sum of the royalty checks that have been rolling in since 1965. Retaining the rights to the music one writes is the key to providing an important source of steady, future income.
I am GenX and along with 80s music I also grew up on music that was already considered, "oldies", by the time I discovered it. (Including classic country music.) That said, I listened mostly to the radio. I owned very few albums or even 45s. So I know next to nothing about much of the music I love. Many times, I've never even seen the artists or know their names. But as soon as you said, "bass line", it started playing in my head. It's such a perfect song!
I was born in’52. Grew up with a great love of music. I could sing in the shower with the best of them. This song along with all of the other temptations songs were on the lips of everyone I knew. People could connect to the songs. Simple songs, catchy beat and rhythm, with meaning. Was lucky enough to see Smokey Robinson at a small venue, A Night With Smokey where he told the stories about the songs that made that generation. An amazing, incredible night with a genius.
You are absolutely correct! It is one of the most signature and most recognized classic songs ever made! So glad we got a bonus episode today, thank you.
It's not even close to the most recognizable from that bass line. I recognized it being from something I knew but couldn't tell what, and I'm old. Beat It would be a much, much better choice.
Thank you so very much. I really appreciated your interview. So many wonderful memories. I’m 76 and still listen to my sixties albums and My Girl is among them. Respectfully yours, Lana
The small story from the movie Standing In The Shadows of Motown about Robert White telling a waiter that the riff was his as it played in the background was heartbreaking. He created a simply gorgeous piece of music and simply didn’t want to be forgotten. R.I.P. 🎸
Every time The Temptations miniseries/movie is playing on TV, I'm glued to the screen. I've seen it dozens of times over years, but I'm always captivated when I watch it. The acting in it is so good that I can't stop watching it.
WoW oh i love that song and i am 71+_ yrs old.... its more than just a song, its a classic legend, i will always remember those years and that song... Otis Williams is a legend, thanks man so much for what you do Adam, you will go down as, one of if not, the Premier Interviewer of Legends, Yep thanks man! My Favorite, that is extremely hard to say, Temptations, Everly Brothers are up there. Supremes, 4 tops, oh my hurt my head so so many!
Otis is right, music is the common language of the world. It goes where no one else can go. The R&B world was on top in the mid 1960's. "My Girl" just may be the No.1 tune of that year, even though there were many great tunes that year. 1965 was the year of change for me. I was 18, I was graduating from high school and I went into the Navy. The time was unsettling. Barry McGuire's tune "Eve of Destruction" was in my head, as Viet Nam was heating up. Music like that from the Temptations, made my known future a little easier. Thank you Otis. ;-)
I always thought I knew a bit about music but the Professor of Rock is just amazing in his understanding of rock, and his vast knowledge of what happened inside every band. Surely impossible, and yet here it is, presented for our appreciation. We owe you mate.
I sang this song as a lullaby to all my daughters when they were babies and I sing it to my granddaghter now - I even call her Sunshine. Great music NEVER goes out of style!!
I was in my senior year in high school, working our production of Camelot, when we had a meeting of the full cast and crew. While we were waiting, Arthur and his three guards lined up, back to front, and started singing "My Girl". I can never hear it without remembering that magical show, and those amazing people.
The epitome of CLASSIC. 'My Girl' was our Senior Class Song - both officially and in reality. Every time this song was played, people all over the room start moving and singing - LOVE THE TEMPTATIONS!!
Solid Gold!!! The Temps, Smokey and My Girl. Otis Williams interview is fantastic. Back in the days when Detroit and Motown were at the top of the charts. Long live The Temptations!!
I'm glad that Otis owns "The Temptations" name and can maintain artistic control over the group. There have been Guess Who-like fakes out there, especially in the '80s when no one was paying attention. The most recent album (I'm not sure I'd call it "new") reflects the respect that goes into the music under Otis.
An episode like this reminds me why I keep coming back to the Professor of Rock! I love all types of music and showing some love for classic Rock n Roll never happens enough. Now this classic is stuck in my head for the rest of the day but ‘Bravo!’ on another stellar episode.
The Temptations were so awesome. A fewvyears ago i was working at a nursing home and the floor tech would be buffing the floors and singing My Girl. If i was housekeeping in the same hallway id sing along with him. A absolute timeless classic.
Wow, what a nice surprise. A second video episode in one day. "My Girl" by The Temptations is an all-time classic and one of the most legendary songs ever recorded in Motown's history. During that incredible time-frame of the 60's, you had legendary male groups such as The Temptations, The Four Tops, and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. With the women, you had Diana Ross & The Supremes, Martha & The Vandellas, and The Mavellettes. Also, great solo artists such as Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells. Of course, you can never forget the great kids group that came later, The Jackson 5. I love Motown and would love to see more episodes done on these artists and their songs.
"Hitsville: The Making of Motown" shows how collaborating in an open "work" environment, "happy accidents", recognizing when something miraculous is happening, scrambling to made-do with what you got,etc is why the music of the 60s is so much better than today's music. ❤❤❤
Music of the 60s was great. Music of the 2000s is great. I’m curating a top 100 songs of the 2000s for a friend who thinks like you do. I’m 59, and I love songs from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s. Heck even some from the 50s!
He made it a point that they were in the entertainment business and not there to be political. Nothing built more bridges between the isolated white suburbs and black America than the great music we heard on the radio.
When I was a baby, my aunt rocked me to “Ooh Baby Baby”. Years later, I rocked my daughter to “My Girl.” Smokey has played a HUGE roll in our family and we thank him.
In the summer of 1971 my band, The Gringos were performing in Hyannis, Cape Cod, MA. We were performing in the lounge at a large resort hotel and down the hall the Temptations were performing in the main theater. We had the chance to see their show and they came into the lounge to hear ours too. Later that same summer we had a similar experience with the Supremes, but Dianna Ross had already left the group.
Always loved the song and the Temptations. The Rolling Stones also covered ‘My Girl’ as an album track, so it never charted. Their version is really good too, almost a note for note copy, but there’s nothing like the Temps version. Mr. Williams looks and sounds great, God bless him. And you guys are absolutely correct: there is nothing like the ‘60s when it comes to popular music.
One of the best shows I have ever been to was a 4-Tops-Temptations show! Music and a real performance by performers that were happy to be there and put it out there for the crowd! I have been going to shows since 1974 and have seen some of the best bands in rock/pop history and they still stand out!!
The Temptations one of the first songs and groups I heard. 1965 I was 5 years old. Just starting my music journey. What a decade for music. The 70s, 80s, 90s wonderful. Early 2000 the language and topic were so bad. Helped with scouts field trips. Couldn't play radio for kids. Started playing Weird Al Yancovic. Great road trip music. My kids can still sing all the words. Now early 30s. Heard my daughter singing all the words to Amy. How do you know the words? Mom you've been playing bad music forever. Beachboys too! Now play 60s on Alexa grandkids sing along. Love your show. My husband 71 and I love the stories. Had known some. Entertaining and you love the subject. Hearing about your Dad so great. Thanks ❤
BONUS EPISODE!! Love My Girl! Was not aware Smoky wrote this! It's one of the best songs ever!! Thanks for the bonus, Professor! This was a superb episode. ❤🎉
Mañana, I ŵas in High School the 1st time I heard The Temptations and "My Girl" on Ed Sullivan... It was a Bombshell and keeps going 2Day... The Greatest...Ever... Thanks Professor... You're the Man!!!
I grew up in Wylam Al and had a very good friend whose father owned a tiny grocery store. He would let Eddie and Paul stand outside the store and sing..years after they were giant stars they came by the store and thanked him..I got to witness it…I will never forget it.
Grew up with the song, my aunt loved Motown , had my daughter in my late 30's and her & I dance to it since she was little, to this day her & will dance to it and my grand daughter just watches us .. Motown is still on my list of preferred music and I listen to on different streaming apps
When I got married in the Philippines, this past February, my Father-in-law and my Wife's Godfather teamed up to sing this song for our reception. A timeless classic! 👍
I was born in 1955, and grew up in Detroit. Smokey, Temptin' Temptations, anyone of the Motown Groups can bring back great memories of Junior High and High Schools. As someone said before, the music of the 60's, 70's, and 80's were GREAT!
Smokey!! My wife sat next to him in 1st class coming back from Japan. She knew he was a big thing. Her being 12 years younger and a 80''s kid. I told her. Smokey wrote more number 😔 ne hits than anyone. Me having a huge LP collection of over 1300 LPs. For a week I pulled only Smokey tracks from many artists. She had no idea. What a legend.
A Temptation’s tribute group came to my college for an assembly. You had to attend three or four assemblies each year to graduate this was an easy choice better than some of the more dry informative ones. I was just sitting in the audience when during their rendition of My Girl they came out and started holding their mics in front of random audience members. I was chosen and I just sang the lyrics. I got extra applause from the group and the audience. I’ve always sang around the house. My Dad was a touring member of the Marine Corps choir and did USO shows with Bob Hope and Elvis and then after retirement from the corps became a mailman and a member of our church choir and he always sang around our house. So I grew up comfortably singing in front of people. This was really fun for me and suddenly I was more popular with the ladies around campus afterwards. That was nice. I’ll always remember that chance to sing in front of my classmates and surprise people with my confident voice. My girl is just a wonderful timeless song
Yes. My Girl is absolutely an iconic song. Thank you for sharing this interview. Anyone can do an opinion piece, but interviewers and documentarians are vital for the preservation of history.
Born in 1954...drummer in a band 66 through 71. We covered so many great songs from the 50s and 60s. Best Era for music and Detroit automotive classics. Joe from Smyrna Delaware
OTIS!!! The Temptations just rule, as does Smokey!! This song is just priceless! I’ve listened to this song since I was an infant in Detroit, & pinned it on (too many) ex-gfs my whole life!!
I was born in 66, grew up with 70 and 80s music. My Girl. The Temptations were before me really. But their music was played on radio and my brother is 7 years older than me. He was a huge Beatles fan, but I heard all kinds of music through him. Wow Smokey Robinson gave them the song. That’s awesome!! But I didn’t really get to hear My Girl from the Big Chill soundtrack. That’s when I got to really get to love it. Music unites us all. I’m so glad Smokey gave it to y’all! The Temptations did it right.
I was 14 years old when my girl came out. It was so special, a mark of the times. I had just started into my teen years and it was 🎉the greatest love song we had ever heard. The melody was so smooth and comforting. My mother worked in a flower shop and that was were I was the first time I heard My Girl you know it made quiet and impression if I can remember where i was when I first heard it. Very special song.
That was the song that I danced at my daughters wedding last year because I use to sing it to her when she was little. Both of my daughters have it tattooed on their arms in my hand writing. Very cool .😎
My teenage Boy and I restored a '64 Chevelle to oldies. We both thought? ...this solid gold mix is what brought this new Chevy to the showroom. Same 60 years later here in '24. Stay strong and well folks!
I've met Smokey a few times, a great and gratious man. James Jamerson layed down the baseline. A few of us were able to get a street named for him in his hometown of Edisto Island in 2023.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Poll: Who is your pick for the GREATEST VOCAL GROUP of the Rock era?
The Temptations
The Temptations
The Four Tops
The Eagles.
The Supremes
The Whispers
@@rogerdeahl9629 Great list!
@@DC8091 Love it!
@@surlechapeau Indeed.
I got to meet Smokey in an airport once. He was surrounded by fans who just wanted to say hi. His staff tried to move him along. His comment was priceless and shows how much he respected and loved his fans. He turned to his staff and said "These people are our friends and fans; it is thes wonderful people who have paid our bills for years. I will always take the time to thank our fans and shake as many hands as I can!". Great man.
Great story - thanks for sharing
My sister was a Fligbt Attendant on American flight and sbe met Smokey, she said he was so nice to everyone!
I've never heard anything bad about Smokey Robinson. 😊😊😊😊
Same thing happened to me. I sat across the aisle from him and called my daughter. She told me to take picture with him. Shy to ask I did and he was so so gracious. All the attendants knew him and friendly to all.
@@paulpartin8208 Smokey was thrilled that the Beatles sent him their first album, with a note thanking him for being such a big influence on them. Sweet, sweet man.
I don’t care how many artists remake this song there is absolutely no one that can sing it like the Mighty Temptations!!!!!
"My Girl" became my song for my girlfriend/future wife when I met her in 1968. I realize that millions of other guys made "My Girl" their love song for their sweetheart. She passed away 3 years ago but will always be "My Girl."
I was widowed two years ago. She died in my arms, an angel from Ohio who left me in a lonely world no longer filled with love. I loved her to the end and will love her to my end. God bless your girl and you.
God bless you both.
Prof, thank you so much for covering this song!
Smokey Robinson did a casino tour in the early 2000s and they would contract local orchestral musicians to play the string parts. I was lucky enough to be contracted as one of the violinists for three of these casino performances. To be on the same stage as him was the single most amazing musical experience of my life!
Since Smokey wrote it, he always performs it. So I got to play that magnificent orchestral string solo in the middle, live! It was the absolute highlight of my 35-year career.
And I even got to meet him, very briefly, before his sound check, one night. I told him how my mom would play his records and other Motown records throughout my childhood, and thanked him for his music. He said 'oh thank you that's so wonderful!' And he reached out and gave me a hug. Then he kissed my cheek and said 'that's for your mom'.
He was so gracious and I will cherish those memories forever! Thank you Smokey!
That's awesome! What a wonderful experience. He sounds like he was a lovely guy, from everything I have heard about him. Not to mention seriously talented! Your mum has great taste ❤
That's awesome! What a wonderful experience. He sounds like he was a lovely guy, from everything I have heard about him. Not to mention seriously talented! Your mum has great taste ❤
O my gosh, I am welling up! That is the sweetest thing I've ever heard. I can only imagine what it was like to perform that. I'm so glad for you and your mom.
@@juliao1255yes that got me in the feels… oh my word!! ❤️🥹
I was Born in 1953, and grew up with the 60s,70s, 80s music best 3 decades of music ever
Me too. June 53❤🎉
You lucky bastard!
I was born the summer of '71.
You lucky bastard!
I was born the Summer of '71.
Me too, April !!
65-95 was an insane run. It was so good it's going to take another generation or two before it comes back.
Hopefully the next genres of music will be conceived by then, because we've beaten rock to death with nostalgic rules. Hip hop isn't far behind either.
I'm a Metal Head who grew up on 80s top 40 radio. And I absolutely love Motown music. The harmonies are like nothing else
Me too. Rock and Metal, but still a sweet spot for classic Motown (Temps, 4 Tops, Smokey, Supremes)
Me too!!
Decades ago, my wife answered the phones for a company that Robinson used. Robinson would make his own calls and my wife would talk to him. She says he was absolutely down to earth, no big shot behavior from him at all. Great guy all the way around. This story totally fits what my wife has said about him.
I wish people would listen to and take to heart what this man is actually saying the last 2 minutes of the interview. He is a man of honor and respect. His wisdom needs to be shared and received.
My sister and I went to a concert featuring the Temptations and the Four Tops at a venue in Anaheim, California. The Temptations were on stage and we both desperately wanted a cigarette. In those days, there was no smoking inside the theater, but it was allowed in the lobby area.
But, how could we leave when the Temptations were on stage? I know!.. We'll wait for a song that we don't know all the lyrics to! The song came, and we quickly ran to the lobby. There were quite a lot of people in the lobby also trying to get a quick smoke. Suddenly, we all heard seven base notes that shocked the lobby into silence. Everybody screamed, threw their cigarettes in the direction of the ash cans scattered about, and RAN back into the theater!
That's one of the strongest memories I have of that night!
I'm kind of surprised that there is a song you didn't know...lol. I know, after a million albums and songs, we don't know them all, but the only way the Temptations would play one is if they needed a break. Heading off to my psychedelic shack...peace.
That’s a wonderful memory to have. ❤
What a great episode! Thanks so much for featuring The Temptations and My Girl.
hgairball9 ... great story! Loved it. 👍👍👍
Nice interview with Otis Williams. I always liked the David Ruffin years of the Temptations. Their sound evolved with the times as well as line up changes. As for "My Girl", Otis Williams said it best - when you listen, you just knew it was going to be big. The greatest thing about the Temptations - none of them needed autotune. They were all great singers.
Thanks for listening
I was 7 years old when this song premiered. It hit me & every kid my age right between the eyes. This, James Brown's " I Feel Good" & The Beatles " I want To Hold Your Hand " had the same effect. There had never been anything like those songs. You couldn't believe mere mortals had created them. 60 years later & it still sounds fresh.
As a child I vacillated between wanting to be a super-hero or a Temptation. Being tone deaf & having no rhythm & not being bitten by a radioactive spider let know both dreams were out of reach.
Thanks for sharing.
I danced with my son to My Girl at his wedding. Towards the end of the song, I handed him off to his new wife. Still brings tears!!
That's a great symbolic use of that song! Very sweet.
Only an amazing mother could do that. ❤
My dear daddy used to sing this to me when I was a wee girl. I was born in 1965. My daddy passed nine years ago, but this song always makes me smile at the thought that I was and always will be daddy's girl! ❤
A special dad for sure. I hope you treasure those memories. Lost my father 14 years ago and he was my hero. You are 2 years older than me but we grew up in the best time in the world. Music was great for the first 3 decades of our lives. I hear songs today and I am swept away to my childhood and all the innocents we had back then.
My Daddy loved Motown too. He passed in 2016. I am still a Daddy's girl💜
I used to be a music teacher. A group of girls who were my students back in the day formed a band and they asked me to mentor them. We recruited 4 boy classmates for the rhythm section. One of the songs on their repertoire was My Girl. The moment we first performed it in front of the faculty, co students and their parents. When that bass line was played, the response was immediate. And they were all singing along.
THIS IS THE LEGACY OF MY GIRL.
I was a nine year old in grade school when My Girl was a number one hit. Had two wonderful daughters rather late in life, now about to turn 23 and 20. I remember how much we enjoyed daddy-daughter dances. When my younger daughter was around nine. the DJ played my girl and saw me singing every word as I held my daughter tight. Suddenly, I had a mic in my face and it was Kareoke night... I belted out the tune with my best Temps imitation. It has been "our" song ever since. I have been told in no uncertain terms that "My Girl" will be our dance song the day she gets married. Thank you Smokey for that bass line that always puts a smile on my face. Thank you Temps for harmonies that always bring tears of joy!
It's amazing when you stop and think about it. The Temptations have been part of the soundtrack of my entire life and of a big chunk of this countries. It's an incredible legacy and I think, well deserved.
For sure!
I love the comment, A Hundred years from now we will still be singing My Girl, that is not true for todays Pop Music.
Great episode.
no one has a clue what folks will be listening to a hundred years from now. It will likely be a mixture of older stuff and whatever is 'new and hip'.
@@wylierichardson-tu6zs- well said. We will all be dead in 100 years too.
My Girl holds a special place in my heart. It was the daddy/daughter dance at my youngest daughter's wedding. She could not have picked a better song. On the way out of a restaurant this evening, having dinner with my daughter and her family, I heard My Girl. I get home and turn on The Professor of Rock, and there the song is again. It will forever be one of my favorites. Thanks Adam.
Otis is quite the gentleman. I'm glad he's still spreading a lot of joy!
Otis is so down to earth...what an absolute gentleman! And his view on today's music and society...SPOT ON!!! Great man, part of a great group, and they have made one of the greatest songs!
Otis is remarkable.The last original standing. Those harmonies, heaven
When my son was two he would sing My Girl from the top of his lungs from his high chair. Never got video of it. One of my life regrets. He’s 33 now and loves karaoke.
So adorable!
Thanks!
@@ProfessorofRock
No, thank you!
And does he sing My Girl on karaoke night? I think he should at least once, so you can get a video of that! lol
Love that story!!!
The R&B hits of the 60s is some of the best music, ever! And I love Otis reflecting on today’s music, because he is correct. It’s truly sad.
I remember I was seven years old going to Washington DC from a small town in Tennessee, with my family going to visit my uncle and aunt. My mom and I would sing along every time this song came on the radio. Such a great memory.
My Girl, sung by David Ruffin. "you ain't nothin, without Ruffin". Dang, we were so damn lucky to be teenagers in that era.
I'm totally confident that Smokey never minded another group making the song a huge hit.....when he realized the sum of the royalty checks that have been rolling in since 1965. Retaining the rights to the music one writes is the key to providing an important source of steady, future income.
I am GenX and along with 80s music I also grew up on music that was already considered, "oldies", by the time I discovered it. (Including classic country music.) That said, I listened mostly to the radio. I owned very few albums or even 45s. So I know next to nothing about much of the music I love. Many times, I've never even seen the artists or know their names. But as soon as you said, "bass line", it started playing in my head. It's such a perfect song!
Love it!
I was born in’52. Grew up with a great love of music. I could sing in the shower with the best of them. This song along with all of the other temptations songs were on the lips of everyone I knew. People could connect to the songs. Simple songs, catchy beat and rhythm, with meaning. Was lucky enough to see Smokey Robinson at a small venue, A Night With Smokey where he told the stories about the songs that made that generation. An amazing, incredible night with a genius.
You are absolutely correct! It is one of the most signature and most recognized classic songs ever made! So glad we got a bonus episode today, thank you.
Well said!
I thought it was going to be _Beat it_
I assumed it would be Sledgehammer.
It's not even close to the most recognizable from that bass line. I recognized it being from something I knew but couldn't tell what, and I'm old. Beat It would be a much, much better choice.
This was played at our daughter’s wedding dance……….. I cried……because she was My Girl …………..love this song , loved this group
I got married in 1963 & I am now 84, I can attest to the fact that 60’s music was the BEST!
Thank you so very much. I really appreciated your interview. So many wonderful memories. I’m 76 and still listen to my sixties albums and My Girl is among them. Respectfully yours, Lana
"My Girl" was the answer song to Mary Wells' "My Guy!" 🎙️🎧🎹
That's right!
You're right! I never thought of that!
The small story from the movie Standing In The Shadows of Motown about Robert White telling a waiter that the riff was his as it played in the background was heartbreaking. He created a simply gorgeous piece of music and simply didn’t want to be forgotten. R.I.P. 🎸
That's a great film too.
Every time The Temptations miniseries/movie is playing on TV, I'm glued to the screen. I've seen it dozens of times over years, but I'm always captivated when I watch it. The acting in it is so good that I can't stop watching it.
They couldn’t have gotten a better David Ruffin. Leon played that part to a tee
WoW oh i love that song and i am 71+_ yrs old.... its more than just a song, its a classic legend, i will always remember those years and that song... Otis Williams is a legend, thanks man so much for what you do Adam, you will go down as, one of if not, the Premier Interviewer of Legends, Yep thanks man! My Favorite, that is extremely hard to say, Temptations, Everly Brothers are up there. Supremes, 4 tops, oh my hurt my head so so many!
Yes!!! Adam you are so blessed and fortunate to sit with such greatness! A true legend in my book.
For sure!
I've always had a soft spot for this song and motown in particular there's just something about the sound it makes you feel so warm inside
Motown is some of the finest music ever created.
No question!
On seeing the thumbnail and title, I thought Billie Jean, but upon hearing it's My Girl? Well, I Second That Emotion
I thought the same thing
I was going for Under Pressure. 😂 All great songs, very memorable.
Otis is right, music is the common language of the world. It goes where no one else can go. The R&B world was on top in the mid 1960's. "My Girl" just may be the No.1 tune of that year, even though there were many great tunes that year.
1965 was the year of change for me. I was 18, I was graduating from high school and I went into the Navy. The time was unsettling. Barry McGuire's tune "Eve of Destruction" was in my head, as Viet Nam was heating up.
Music like that from the Temptations, made my known future a little easier. Thank you Otis. ;-)
For sure!
Graduated in 66...we all share music that never was, and never has been since then.
I always thought I knew a bit about music but the Professor of Rock is just amazing in his understanding of rock, and his vast knowledge of what happened inside every band. Surely impossible, and yet here it is, presented for our appreciation. We owe you mate.
Poll: What is your pick for the MOST RECOGNIZABLE song of ALL TIME?
"Hotel California" The Eagles
@@christineml1476 GOOD CALL!
Happy Birthday
Free Bird
Satisfaction
Jail House Rock
My Girl
Twist & Shout
Dreams - FM
I like it already. No flubs, stutter, loss of memory, falling alsleep. Great presentation for 5:30
Professor, you have the coolest job on earth!
I agree!
Smokey was not just a musician, he was a Vice President of Motown, and one of their most successful producers/songwriters.
I saw Smokey at a TGIF's in Porter Ranch ,a suburb in L.A's San Fernando Valley. He was ordering takeout & I was in awe..
I've been blessed, I saw both The Temptations as well as Smokey Robinson play in Marion, OH at the Palace Theater about 15 years ago.
Smokey knew who would work the song best
Smokey, on Daryl Hall's RUclips channel, "Live At Daryls House".Great!!
Smokey is an American treasure. Amazing writer, performer, and an important part of music history.
He also just seems like a beacon of good vibes.
I sang this song as a lullaby to all my daughters when they were babies and I sing it to my granddaghter now - I even call her Sunshine. Great music NEVER goes out of style!!
I was in my senior year in high school, working our production of Camelot, when we had a meeting of the full cast and crew. While we were waiting, Arthur and his three guards lined up, back to front, and started singing "My Girl". I can never hear it without remembering that magical show, and those amazing people.
Lovely interview; lovely song. ‘Papa was a Rolling Stone’ is my fave temptations song. ‘When he died, all he left us was alone.’ Classic ❤
So good!
I always thought it was a loan. 😅 alone makes more sense
@@beeonthyme5760 Thanks.
That is also my favourite.
@@beeonthyme5760 It was probably both, a pun more or less, because you imagine he had a lot of betting debts 🤣
AMAZING INTERVIEW 💜🥳🎉The memories just take me back! Dancing, singing along, the world was made right! Thank you Professor and thank Otis🎉🎉🎉🎉
The epitome of CLASSIC. 'My Girl' was our Senior Class Song - both officially and in reality. Every time this song was played, people all over the room start moving and singing - LOVE THE TEMPTATIONS!!
My husband and daughter danced to My Girl at her wedding. Greatest song, greatest era for music ever
Solid Gold!!! The Temps, Smokey and My Girl. Otis Williams interview is fantastic. Back in the days when Detroit and Motown were at the top of the charts. Long live The Temptations!!
For sure!
Listened to this on AM and at the beach on a transistor. Still evokes memories of the time, and images of the group singing and swaying on stage.
I'm glad that Otis owns "The Temptations" name and can maintain artistic control over the group. There have been Guess Who-like fakes out there, especially in the '80s when no one was paying attention. The most recent album (I'm not sure I'd call it "new") reflects the respect that goes into the music under Otis.
Good call.
No question; one of the defining songs of the 60s, regardless of genre. It will indeed be listened to and revered for decades to come.
FOr sure!
I think that "My Girl" is the greatest love song ever written
I was so blessed by my mom who played all the classic Motown in my home . I learned to appreciate all types of music has I grew up
An episode like this reminds me why I keep coming back to the Professor of Rock! I love all types of music and showing some love for classic Rock n Roll never happens enough. Now this classic is stuck in my head for the rest of the day but ‘Bravo!’ on another stellar episode.
Funk Bros.🕺 Otis's 💃was in 'that' popular mens publication 94🤔 I believe, beautiful 😁
The Temptations were so awesome. A fewvyears ago i was working at a nursing home and the floor tech would be buffing the floors and singing My Girl. If i was housekeeping in the same hallway id sing along with him. A absolute timeless classic.
My Girl was just one of many Temptations hits that will be remembered decades from now.
Wow, what a nice surprise. A second video episode in one day. "My Girl" by The Temptations is an all-time classic and one of the most legendary songs ever recorded in Motown's history. During that incredible time-frame of the 60's, you had legendary male groups such as The Temptations, The Four Tops, and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. With the women, you had Diana Ross & The Supremes, Martha & The Vandellas, and The Mavellettes. Also, great solo artists such as Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells. Of course, you can never forget the great kids group that came later, The Jackson 5. I love Motown and would love to see more episodes done on these artists and their songs.
All time classic for sure!
I were borned in 1956, I’m a white boy that has always loved the Motown sound. It’s what I’ve called “hold em close” dance music!!
"Hitsville: The Making of Motown" shows how collaborating in an open "work" environment, "happy accidents", recognizing when something miraculous is happening, scrambling to made-do with what you got,etc is why the music of the 60s is so much better than today's music.
❤❤❤
Music of the 60s was great. Music of the 2000s is great. I’m curating a top 100 songs of the 2000s for a friend who thinks like you do. I’m 59, and I love songs from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s. Heck even some from the 50s!
the real reason was the rise of rock and roll, and discovering the different ways it could be created - from three-minutes singles to conceptual LPs.
He made it a point that they were in the entertainment business and not there to be political. Nothing built more bridges between the isolated white suburbs and black America than the great music we heard on the radio.
“Detroit would shut down whenever they knew a Motown act was on Ed Sullivan” 🤘🤘🤘
That's right!
When I was a baby, my aunt rocked me to “Ooh Baby Baby”. Years later, I rocked my daughter to “My Girl.” Smokey has played a HUGE roll in our family and we thank him.
Wow ! Otis Williams wrote the lyrics ! Excellent trivia info ! Thanks Professor!
Your episodes are filled with trivia behind the scenes info !
Glad you like them!
In the summer of 1971 my band, The Gringos were performing in Hyannis, Cape Cod, MA. We were performing in the lounge at a large resort hotel and down the hall the Temptations were performing in the main theater. We had the chance to see their show and they came into the lounge to hear ours too. Later that same summer we had a similar experience with the Supremes, but Dianna Ross had already left the group.
Always loved the song and the Temptations. The Rolling Stones also covered ‘My Girl’ as an album track, so it never charted. Their version is really good too, almost a note for note copy, but there’s nothing like the Temps version. Mr. Williams looks and sounds great, God bless him. And you guys are absolutely correct: there is nothing like the ‘60s when it comes to popular music.
One of the best shows I have ever been to was a 4-Tops-Temptations show! Music and a real performance by performers that were happy to be there and put it out there for the crowd! I have been going to shows since 1974 and have seen some of the best bands in rock/pop history and they still stand out!!
The Temptations one of the first songs and groups I heard. 1965 I was 5 years old. Just starting my music journey. What a decade for music. The 70s, 80s, 90s wonderful. Early 2000 the language and topic were so bad. Helped with scouts field trips. Couldn't play radio for kids. Started playing Weird Al Yancovic. Great road trip music. My kids can still sing all the words. Now early 30s. Heard my daughter singing all the words to Amy. How do you know the words? Mom you've been playing bad music forever. Beachboys too! Now play 60s on Alexa grandkids sing along. Love your show. My husband 71 and I love the stories. Had known some. Entertaining and you love the subject. Hearing about your Dad so great. Thanks ❤
The 1960’s Motown sound was awesome! My favorite Motown song …. My Girl ❤️
Who doesn’t like my girl it’s a total classic 💞
BONUS EPISODE!!
Love My Girl!
Was not aware Smoky wrote this! It's one of the best songs ever!!
Thanks for the bonus, Professor! This was a superb episode. ❤🎉
BONUS TODAY!
Mañana,
I ŵas in High School the 1st time I heard The Temptations and "My Girl" on Ed Sullivan...
It was a Bombshell and keeps going 2Day...
The Greatest...Ever...
Thanks Professor...
You're the Man!!!
You can't beat the Motown classics. They are classic for a reason: TALENT!!
" Music can do Certain things that Poly ticksions Can't do!" Thank You Otis Williams
I grew up in Wylam Al and had a very good friend whose father owned a tiny grocery store.
He would let Eddie and Paul stand outside the store and sing..years after they were
giant stars they came by the store and thanked him..I got to witness it…I will never forget it.
Yes The sixtys are the Gold standard of music. Nothing beats it. Motown, Beatles ,Stones, etc. And the bands they inspired.
Grew up with the song, my aunt loved Motown , had my daughter in my late 30's and her & I dance to it since she was little, to this day her & will dance to it and my grand daughter just watches us .. Motown is still on my list of preferred music and I listen to on different streaming apps
When I got married in the Philippines, this past February, my Father-in-law and my Wife's Godfather teamed up to sing this song for our reception.
A timeless classic! 👍
This is a terrific interview. Thanks.
I was born in 1955, and grew up in Detroit. Smokey, Temptin' Temptations, anyone of the Motown Groups can bring back great memories of Junior High and High Schools. As someone said before, the music of the 60's, 70's, and 80's were GREAT!
Smokey!! My wife sat next to him in 1st class coming back from Japan. She knew he was a big thing. Her being 12 years younger and a 80''s kid. I told her. Smokey wrote more number 😔 ne hits than anyone. Me having a huge LP collection of over 1300 LPs. For a week I pulled only Smokey tracks from many artists. She had no idea. What a legend.
Bonus content on my birthday!
Thanks, Professor!
happy birthday🎂🍾🌹
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Hope it is wonderful!
Happy Birthday!!! 🎉🎁🎈🥰 HUGS
🙋♀️🎉🎈🎂🥂
Happy happy birthday! Hope you enjoy your special day today! Rock on 🤘
Fabulous! Just great. Love Otis. Thank you.
"Music can do certain things that politicians can't do." This man is the real deal. I loved listening to him tell this story.❤
A Temptation’s tribute group came to my college for an assembly. You had to attend three or four assemblies each year to graduate this was an easy choice better than some of the more dry informative ones. I was just sitting in the audience when during their rendition of My Girl they came out and started holding their mics in front of random audience members. I was chosen and I just sang the lyrics. I got extra applause from the group and the audience. I’ve always sang around the house. My Dad was a touring member of the Marine Corps choir and did USO shows with Bob Hope and Elvis and then after retirement from the corps became a mailman and a member of our church choir and he always sang around our house. So I grew up comfortably singing in front of people. This was really fun for me and suddenly I was more popular with the ladies around campus afterwards. That was nice. I’ll always remember that chance to sing in front of my classmates and surprise people with my confident voice. My girl is just a wonderful timeless song
Yes. My Girl is absolutely an iconic song. Thank you for sharing this interview. Anyone can do an opinion piece, but interviewers and documentarians are vital for the preservation of history.
Born in 1954...drummer in a band 66 through 71. We covered so many great songs from the 50s and 60s. Best Era for music and Detroit automotive classics.
Joe from Smyrna Delaware
Loved Soul music. When my birthday came that year, Mom gave me a transistor radio, every night when I went to bed I listened to a soul station.
OTIS!!! The Temptations just rule, as does Smokey!! This song is just priceless! I’ve listened to this song since I was an infant in Detroit, & pinned it on (too many) ex-gfs my whole life!!
Amen!
I was born in 66, grew up with 70 and 80s music. My Girl. The Temptations were before me really. But their music was played on radio and my brother is 7 years older than me. He was a huge Beatles fan, but I heard all kinds of music through him. Wow Smokey Robinson gave them the song. That’s awesome!! But I didn’t really get to hear My Girl from the Big Chill soundtrack. That’s when I got to really get to love it. Music unites us all. I’m so glad Smokey gave it to y’all! The Temptations did it right.
Some songs become part of you , they meld with your soul . What an amazing gift , Thanks
I was 14 years old when my girl came out. It was so special, a mark of the times. I had just started into my teen years and it was 🎉the greatest love song we had ever heard. The melody was so smooth and comforting. My mother worked in a flower shop and that was were I was the first time I heard My Girl you know it made quiet and impression if I can remember where i was when I first heard it. Very special song.
That was the song that I danced at my daughters wedding last year because I use to sing it to her when she was little. Both of my daughters have it tattooed on their arms in my hand writing. Very cool .😎
My teenage Boy and I restored a '64 Chevelle to oldies. We both thought? ...this solid gold mix is what brought this new Chevy to the showroom. Same 60 years later here in '24. Stay strong and well folks!
I have long loved The Temptations. They provided part of the soundtrack of my younger life. Still love them!!
I've met Smokey a few times, a great and gratious man. James Jamerson layed down the baseline. A few of us were able to get a street named for him in his hometown of Edisto Island in 2023.