About the song
“Treat Her Like a Lady” stands out as a significant single by the Temptations, released in 1984 under the Gordy (Motown) label. This track marks a pivotal moment for the group as it features Ali-Ollie Woodson making his debut as the lead vocalist, a departure from the traditional lineup where David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks had previously taken the lead.
Released on November 6, 1984 (with initial airplay in October), “Treat Her Like a Lady” quickly gained traction, becoming one of the Temptations’ most successful singles on R&B radio since 1975. It peaked at number 2 on the R&B chart and made a notable appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 48. Additionally, the song achieved considerable success in the UK, where it climbed to number 12 on the Singles Chart.
The song is prominently featured on the Temptations’ 1984 album “Truly for You,” where it serves as the lead single. Co-written by Ali-Ollie Woodson and Otis Williams, and co-produced by Woodson along with former Earth, Wind & Fire members Al McKay and Ralph Johnson, “Treat Her Like a Lady” embodies a blend of Motown’s classic soul sound with elements of contemporary R&B and funk.
In “Treat Her Like a Lady,” the Temptations deliver a message of respect and admiration for women, urging listeners to cherish and honor their partners with love and dignity. The track’s upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and Woodson’s powerful vocals contribute to its infectious appeal, making it a standout in the Temptations’ discography.
Beyond its musical achievements, “Treat Her Like a Lady” reflects the Temptations’ ability to evolve with the times while maintaining their distinctive soulful style. The collaboration with Al McKay and Ralph Johnson brings a fresh dynamic to their sound, infusing the track with rhythmic complexity and instrumental richness.
Overall, “Treat Her Like a Lady” not only reaffirms the Temptations’ status as pioneers of soul music but also underscores their enduring relevance in the 1980s music scene. It remains a testament to the group’s ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to their roots, resonating with audiences both domestically and internationally.
Video
Lyrics
Treat her like a lady
Hey, hey, hey
Instrumental
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh, yeah, baby
Whoa-whoa-oh-oh
Mmm
Now I-m the kinda guy who don’t believe
That chivalry is dead, no
‘Cause I believe a woman should be treated
With the utmost respect, mmm-hmm-
Don’t be afraid, don’t turn and walk away
I wanna get to know ya, well
Don’t be ashamed, don’t say that love’s to blame
Just come and look me over
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, woo-hoo-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky (Yeah) off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even (Help her with her coat) well
Treat her like a lady
In this world of liberation
It’s so easy to forget, mmm-
That it’s so nice to have a man around
To lend a helping hand, you can bet, bet you can, baby
When I was young, my mama used to say, boy
A woman’s like a flower, with love on her you shower
Ever since that day, her words never went away
I always will remember to treat my baby tender
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-ooh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
She’s a bad son-of-a-gun
I’m her lovin’ Don Juan
Treat her like a lady
Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-ooh-
Whoa-oh-oh-
Hey-hey-
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-baby
Every day, ever way
Hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-whoa-oh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat, help her out
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
Now boy, you should remember
To be a gentleman
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Hey-ey-)
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like (Well), treat her like
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Ooh-hoo-)
Treat her like a lady (Hoo-hoo-oh, my, my, treat her like a lady)