About the song
“My Girl,” a quintessential soul music anthem, stands as one of the Temptations’ most beloved and iconic songs. Written and produced by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of the Miracles, the track was released under the Gordy (Motown) label in 1964. It marked a significant milestone for the Temptations, becoming their first number one single on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying its place as their signature song.
Smokey Robinson drew inspiration for “My Girl” from his wife, Claudette Rogers Robinson, a member of the Miracles, infusing personal sentiment into the lyrics and melody. The song was prominently featured on the Temptations’ 1965 album, “The Temptations Sing Smokey.” In recognition of its cultural impact, “My Girl” was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2017.
The recording of “My Girl” marked a pivotal moment for the Temptations as it was the first single to feature David Ruffin on lead vocals. Ruffin, known for his charismatic and soulful voice, delivered a performance that resonated deeply with listeners. Originally intended for the Miracles, Robinson redirected the song to the Temptations after witnessing Ruffin’s compelling solo during the Motortown Revue tour, where various Motown artists performed.
The song’s opening bass notes, played by James Jamerson, are instantly recognizable worldwide, setting the stage for Ruffin’s heartfelt delivery. Robert White of the Funk Brothers contributed the iconic guitar riff that underscores the verses, further enhancing the song’s melodic allure.
“My Girl” transcended cultural boundaries with versions recorded in German (“Mein Girl”) and Italian (“Solamente Lei”), showcasing its global appeal and Motown’s international influence. These renditions, alongside the original, underscored the song’s enduring popularity across diverse audiences.
Over the years, “My Girl” has left an indelible mark on popular culture, featured prominently in the 1991 film of the same name, which helped reintroduce the song to new generations. A re-release in 1992, following the film’s success, reached number two on the UK Singles Chart, affirming its timeless appeal and continued relevance.
In addition to its cultural accolades and commercial success, “My Girl” has been sampled and referenced in various musical works, attesting to its enduring influence in the realm of soul and pop music.
“My Girl” remains not only a cornerstone of the Temptations’ illustrious career but also a defining masterpiece in the broader landscape of American music, cherished for its heartfelt lyrics, soulful melody, and timeless charm.
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)