About the song
The Temptations, a vocal group synonymous with the golden age of Motown, continued to redefine their sound and captivate audiences well into the 1980s. Their 1984 single, “Treat Her Like a Lady,” marked a significant milestone in their career, introducing a new lead singer and showcasing their ability to adapt to evolving musical trends while remaining true to their soulful roots.
“Treat Her Like a Lady” was the first single to feature Ali-Ollie Woodson as the lead vocalist, a departure from the group’s traditional harmonies. Woodson’s powerful and emotive voice brought a fresh energy to the Temptations’ sound, while his soulful delivery perfectly complemented the song’s message of respect and chivalry. Co-written by Woodson and Otis Williams, and co-produced by Woodson and former Earth, Wind & Fire members Al McKay and Ralph Johnson, the song blended elements of contemporary R&B with the group’s classic Motown style.
The single’s success was undeniable. It reached number 2 on the R&B chart, marking the Temptations’ biggest hit on that chart since 1975. While it narrowly missed the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100, it still managed to capture the hearts of fans worldwide. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless message, catchy melody, and the Temptations’ impeccable vocal harmonies. “Treat Her Like a Lady” remains a testament to the group’s enduring legacy and their ability to continue to evolve and innovate throughout their illustrious career.
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)