Time Tunnel Featured Artist – The Temptations
When I hear the name Motown, I immediately think of the Temptations. Otis Williams, Paul Williams, Melvin Franklin, Eddie Kendricks, David Ruffin came together and produced hit after hit. They never disappointed, and the choreography of their coordinated dance moves during their stage performance was never less than stellar. I remember the Temptation Walk; it was so smooth that it became a popular dance at the house parties.
The first song that I remember from the group was "The Way You Do The Things You Do", which was the song that really put them on the map in 1964. They had a classic line up of hits to 1968 when David Ruffin left the group for a solo career, and was replaced by Dennis Edwards. Success didn't stop there for the Temptations, in fact, they didn't miss a beat. In fact, Dennis Edwards sang lead on more hit songs than David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks combined.
During the years 1968 to 1972, the Temptations began singing more contemporary songs which were the most successful singles in their long career:
Cloud Nine
Runaway Child, Running Wild
I Can't Get Next To You
Psychadelic Shack
Ball of Confusion
Papa Was A Rolling Stone
Just My Imagination
Eddie Kendricks left the group in 1971 for a solo career, and was replaced by Richard Street. Eddie scored a couple of big hits with Boogie Down,and Keep On Truckin.
In 1982, David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks rejoined the group for a Reunion album and successful reunion tour. In 1983, The Temptations had a vocal duel withi the Four Tops which was the highlight of Motown's 25th anniversary TV Special.
The Temptations had some serious and tragic losses over the years:
Paul Williams committed suicide in 1981
David Ruffin died of substance abuse in 1991
Eddie Kendricks died of lung cancer in 1992
Melvin Franklin died from complications following a brain seizure in 1995.
Despite the loss of some of Motown's greatest entertainers, the group has remained resiliant and active with original founding member Otis Willilams.
I loved the Temptations then, and still enjoy listening to their songs from the 60's through today. Check out the Videos...
More From KSSM-FM
