About the song
In 1984, the legendary Motown group The Temptations returned to the spotlight with a song that resonated with a generation – “Treat Her Like a Lady.” This wasn’t just another love ballad; it was a declaration of respect and a call to revive the spirit of chivalry.
Marking a significant moment for the group, “Treat Her Like a Lady” was the first single featuring Ali-Ollie Woodson on lead vocals. Co-written by Woodson and Otis Williams, the song was a collaborative effort that reflected a changing musical landscape. Production duties were shared by Woodson himself alongside music veterans Al McKay and Ralph Johnson, formerly of Earth, Wind & Fire.
The song’s message was clear and powerful. Refusing to accept the idea that chivalry was dead, the lyrics champion respect and kindness towards women. The soulful melody and smooth vocals create a timeless atmosphere, urging listeners to treat their partners with the respect they deserve.
“Treat Her Like a Lady” wasn’t just a critical success; it became a commercial force. While it narrowly missed the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, it reached number 2 on the R&B chart, solidifying its place within the soul music genre. Internationally, the song reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart, demonstrating its universal appeal.
The impact of “Treat Her Like a Lady” extends beyond chart numbers. It became a cultural touchstone, reminding audiences of the importance of respect and courtesy in relationships. Even today, the song continues to inspire and be celebrated, a testament to its enduring message and infectious groove.
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)