About the song
“My Girl,” a quintessential soul music masterpiece by The Temptations, remains an enduring emblem of Motown’s golden era. Released in 1965 under the Gordy (Motown) record label, this song marked a pivotal moment for the group, propelling them to their first U.S. number 1 single and solidifying their status as icons of the genre.
The genesis of “My Girl” lies in the creative partnership between Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of The Miracles, who penned and produced the track. Inspired by his wife, Claudette Rogers Robinson, Smokey Robinson crafted lyrics that celebrated love with heartfelt simplicity, perfectly complementing the lush melodies and harmonies synonymous with The Temptations’ style.
David Ruffin’s soul-stirring vocals took center stage on “My Girl,” marking a departure from the group’s previous lead vocal arrangements. Smokey Robinson, impressed by Ruffin’s vocal prowess during the Motortown Revue tour, recognized his potential as a standout performer within the group. This decision proved transformative, as Ruffin’s smooth yet powerful delivery breathed life into the song’s narrative of adoration and devotion.
From its iconic opening bass notes, courtesy of James Jamerson, to the infectious guitar riff by Robert White of the Funk Brothers, “My Girl” captivated listeners worldwide. The song’s universal appeal transcended language barriers, evidenced by its adaptations into German (“Mein Girl”) and Italian (“Solamente Lei”), reflecting Motown’s global influence during the 1960s.
“My Girl” not only dominated the charts upon its release but also garnered critical acclaim. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became the Gordy label’s first number 1 hit, concurrently revitalizing the Billboard R&B Singles chart after a hiatus. Its enduring popularity earned it a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame and multiple accolades, solidifying its legacy as one of Motown’s greatest achievements.
Beyond its initial success, “My Girl” continues to resonate across generations. Its inclusion in cultural preservation initiatives like the National Recording Registry underscores its significance as a defining piece of American musical heritage. Rolling Stone recognized its enduring impact by ranking it among “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” affirming its timeless status in the annals of popular music.
In essence, “My Girl” is more than a song—it’s a testament to the power of soulful expression and enduring romance, forever etched into the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve got sunshine, on a cloudy day
When it’s cold outside, I’ve got the month of May (ooh)
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
Ooh, ooh
Hey-hey-hey, hey-hey-hey
Ooh, ooh, yeah
I don’t need no money (ooh), fortune, or fame
I’ve got all the riches, baby (ooh) 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 (whoa, whoa) with my girl
I’ve even got the month of May, with my girl (talkin’ ’bout my girl)
Talkin’ ’bout, talkin’ ’bout, talkin’ ’bout my girl (ooh)
Ooh, my girl (talkin’ ’bout my girl)
That’s all I can talk about is my girl (ooh)
Why don’t you believe she’s all my girl? (Talkin’ ’bout my girl)