About the song
Background and writing
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a song originally written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for the Motown group The Undisputed Truth. It was released as a single in May 1972 and became a modest hit, reaching number 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
Later that year, The Temptations recorded their own version of the song, which was produced by Whitfield. The Temptations’ version featured a more soulful and dramatic arrangement than the original, and it became a much bigger hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number two on the UK Singles Chart.
Recording and production
The Temptations’ version of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” was recorded in 1972 at the Motown Studios in Detroit, Michigan. The song was produced by Norman Whitfield. Whitfield was a successful record producer who worked with some of the biggest names in Motown, including The Temptations, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye.
Release and commercial performance
The Temptations’ version of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” was released in 1972 as a single. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number two on the UK Singles Chart. The song was also a hit in other countries, reaching the top ten charts in many countries around the world.
Impact and legacy
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is considered to be one of the greatest soul songs of all time. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Elton John, Eric Clapton, and The Rolling Stones. The song has also been used in several films and television shows, including “The Big Lebowski” and “The Sopranos.”
The Temptations
The Temptations were an American vocal group that was one of the most successful and influential groups in Motown history. The group was formed in Detroit, Michigan, in 1960 and consisted of Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, and David Ruffin.
The Temptations had a string of hit singles in the 1960s and 1970s, including “Papa Was a Rolling Stone”, “My Girl”, and “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)”. The group was also successful on the album charts, releasing several top ten albums in the United States.
The Temptations were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. The group continues to perform and tour today, with Otis Williams being the only original member still in the group.
Conclusion
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a classic soul song that has stood the test of time. It is a beautiful and moving song about the power of music, and it is a reminder that even the simplest songs can be the most meaningful. The Temptations’ version is the definitive version of the song, and it is considered to be one of the greatest soul songs of all time.
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