About the song
“My Girl” is a soul music masterpiece that has stood the test of time, captivating audiences for generations with its smooth harmonies, catchy melody, and heartfelt lyrics. Written and produced by the legendary Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of the Miracles, this iconic song was recorded by The Temptations in 1964 and has since become their signature tune. With its unique blend of soul, R&B, and pop, “My Girl” has been inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, solidifying its status as a culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant work.
The song’s inspiration came from Smokey Robinson’s wife, Claudette Rogers Robinson, and was included on The Temptations’ 1965 album The Temptations Sing Smokey. The recorded version features David Ruffin on lead vocals, marking the first time he took the lead for the group. Ruffin’s powerful, yet mellow and gruff, voice brought a new dimension to the song, which was originally intended for the Miracles.
The Temptations’ unique background vocals, which included the iconic “hey hey hey” and “my girls” harmonies, added depth and texture to the song. The opening bass notes, played by James Jamerson, are instantly recognizable and have become synonymous with the song. The signature guitar riff, played by Robert White of the Funk Brothers, is another defining element of “My Girl.”
The song’s impact extends beyond its original release. It has been re-released several times, including in 1992, following the release of the film of the same name. The song has also been sampled in various tracks, including “Stay” from the Temptations’ 1998 album Phoenix Rising. “My Girl” has been covered by numerous artists, but the original version remains the most beloved and enduring.
In conclusion, “My Girl” is a soul music classic that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Its timeless appeal, memorable melody, and heartfelt lyrics have made it a staple of American music, and its influence can still be felt today.
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)