The group was formed in 1961 in Detroit. It was a combination of two local Detroit groups, The Primes and The Distants. When the group started under the name The Temptations, it consisted of Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, Elbridge Bryant, Paul Williams (no relation to Otis) and Eddie Kendricks. Many changes followed later.
The five-man formation has seen numerous line-up changes throughout their long history, which has not hindered a constant stream of successful hits. The fruitful collaborations with major producers such as Smokey Robinson, Norman Whitfield and Brian Holland have contributed significantly to this.
Original
Many songs by The Temptations are better known in versions by other artists. For example, 'Get Ready' appears on Rare Earth's debut album; the 20-minute track became a big hit in its single version and grew into a pop classic. The group still performs, with only original member Otis Williams remaining part of The Temptations.
Passing of Otis 'Damon' Harry
On 18 February 2013, former band member Otis 'Damon' Harry passed away. He died at the age of 62 from prostate cancer. The musician was active with The Temptations between 1971-1975 and can be heard on hits such as 'Papa Was a Rollin' Stone' and 'Superstar (Remember How You Got Where You Are)'. Otis Williams remains the only living original member of The Temptations.
The Temptations are responsible for classic soul hits such as 'My Girl', 'Ain't Too Proud to Beg', 'Cloud Nine' and 'Papa Was a Rolling Stone'.
The Temptations in the 21st century
The Temptations still exist in the early 21st century and were inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 1999. The line-up has changed frequently. Dennis Edwards had his own group called Dennis Edwards & The Temptations Revue. Dennis Edwards passed away in 2018.
Sunday Morning Classic: Cloud Nine
On 14 November 2021, the album Cloud Nine was spinning on our turntable as Sunday Morning Classic.
Cloud Nine is the ninth studio album by The Temptations for the Gordy (Motown) label, released in 1969. The album is a turning point for several reasons. It is the first regular studio LP by The Temptations with Dennis Edwards replacing David Ruffin, who was dismissed in June 1968. Moreover, it marks the beginning of The Temptations' four-year dive into psychedelic recordings. The album reached number four on the Billboard Pop Albums Chart and the group received their first Grammy Award in 1969.
Norman Whitfield took The Temptations into psychedelic territory following a suggestion from the group's actual leader, Otis Williams. Williams spoke about the music of Sly & the Family Stone and the changes it brought to the soul music industry. Although Otis Williams denies the connection, the lyrics of "Cloud Nine" are often cited as empathy for drug use. The song seems to suggest that the best way for anyone to cope with the problems associated with being poor and black in America was to "ride high on 'cloud nine'."
Top 2000
In the 2020 Top 2000, The Temptations appear with 'Papa Was A Rollin' Stone' at number 516.
Albums
The Temptations are responsible for selling millions of albums. Below you will find a small selection of the records released, including of course our Sunday Morning Classic!
