The Temptations
The Quintessential Motown Vocal Group
For more than 50 years, The Temptations have prospered, propelling popular music with a series of smash hits and sold-out performances throughout the world. The history of The Temptations is that of contemporary American pop. An essential component of the original Motown machine, that amazing engine invented by Berry Gordy, The Temptations began their musical life in Detroit in the early ’60s. It wasn’t until 1964; however, that Smokey Robinson wrote and produced “The Way You Do the Things You Do” that turned the guys into stars. An avalanche of hits followed, many of which, “My Girl,” for instance, attained…
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For more than 50 years, The Temptations have prospered, propelling popular music with a series of smash hits and sold-out performances throughout the world. The history of The Temptations is that of contemporary American pop. An essential component of the original Motown machine, that amazing engine invented by Berry Gordy, The Temptations began their musical life in Detroit in the early ’60s. It wasn’t until 1964; however, that Smokey Robinson wrote and produced “The Way You Do the Things You Do” that turned the guys into stars.
An avalanche of hits followed, many of which, “My Girl,” for instance, attained immortality. “It’s Growing,” “Since I Lost My Baby,” “Get Ready,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Beauty Is only Skin Deep” and “I Wish It Would Rain” were some of the hits that kept on coming. The classic lineup was Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, Paul Williams, Eddie Kendricks and David Ruffin. Beyond the fabulous singing, The Temptations became known for smooth stepping and flawless presentations.
The Temptations Walk became a staple of American styleâ??flair, flash and class. Millions of fans saw their Temptations as cultural heroes. When the ’60s and ’70s turned political, The Temptations got serious.
They changed their tone, dress and music. Producer Norman Whitfield led the way with his Temptations hits, many featuring Dennis Edwards, who had replaced David Ruffin, burned with intensity. “Runaway Child,” “Cloud Nine,” “I Can’t Get Next to You,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and “Psychedelic Shack” still smolder. Other stellar singers, Richard Street and Ali-Ollie Woodson, joined, adding their luster to the groups’ growing fame.
No matter the change in personnel, The Temptations remained true to their tradition. They survived the whims of fashion, whether disco or techno, and stuck to their guns. “Great singing,” says Otis, “will always prevail.” In the ’80s, The Temps prevailed with smashes like the Otis Williams’ penned “Treat Her Like A Lady.” Then in the ’90s, another Temptation explosion with a series of acclaimed records: “For Lovers Only,” a collection of love standards, termed an instant classic by critics, remains among the most cherished of all Temptations recordings. “Phoenix Rising” went through the roof, a platinum-plus mega-hit featuring “Stay,” the Narada Michael Walden-produced song that topped the charts. “Ear Resistible” nailed a Grammy and a legion of new fans. “Awesome,” released in 2001, is The Temptations at their freshest, strongest and most appealing. “Reflections” was released in 2005, was nominated for a Grammy and brought to the world The Temptations versions of some of Motown’s greatest songs.”The more we change,” says veteran Ron Tyson, “the more we stay true to ourselves. We’re about singing straight-up soul. It’s a style that will live on forever.” The Temptations are Otis Williams, Ron Tyson, Terry Weeks, Joe Herndon and Bruce Williamson.
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LITTLE RIVER BAND OF OTTAWA INDIANS
Our speaker was great and the crowd enjoyed her! She was very engaging. Thank you again PDA for the great list of suggestions!
MEDTRONIC
Everything went great! and our speaker was wonderful! Thank you so much for all your help PDA! Looking forward to the next one.
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI – KANSAS CITY
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BAYLOR UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
We had a fantastic day with Inge! She was very engaging with all those that attended. Her personal stories about the holocaust were very special and we were moved that she was willing to share them with everyone. Thank you again, PDA for all your hard work and dedication to make this program such a success!
SALT LAKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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SAP COMPANY
Thank you again, Dr. Kimbrough, for a great presentation, our attendees are still talking about it!
CAMPUS LABS
Dr. Henry Lee's presentation was entertaining, insightful and wise. I, and everyone at Pfizer, especially appreciate the remarks you directed about following your passion and preparing yourself to excel. Thank you, everyone, at PDA for helping to make this happen!
PFIZER
The event was successful! I received many messages expressing how awesome, outstanding and inspiring Ms. Webb-Christburg's speech was."
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MEMORIAL BREAKFAST, BOSTON, MLK SPEAKER
Everything went well. Atsuko was very easy to work with and the students enjoyed her performance! Thank you again for your recommendation and I hope to work with you again in the future!
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
Dr. Novello left this morning after a very successful event on our campus! Thank you PDA Group for your help from the first phone to the last you were with us every step of the way.
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
Jordan Carlos was very very entertaining! A majority of students who answered the event survey indicated they really enjoyed Jordan and definitely will bring him back!
WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
On behalf of myself and my organization Entertainment Unlimited the Campus Programming Board of Ferris State University, we thank you PDA and Dan for a successful event!! Dan was magnificent! Students really enjoyed the presentation. I know I did. Can't wait to bring in more programs with PDA Group.
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
It was a great pleasure to work with PDA Group! The communication was always prompt, friendly and helpful. We loved the speakers and events we booked through Mr. Peter Walker (PDA Group).
WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
Thank you, Peter, for all your help, you'll be happy to know that the event went incredibly well! Aneesa Ferreira was by far one of the best speakers we've ever had!
FURMAN UNIVERSITY
Topics
An Evening With The Temptations
Videos
I'm Losing You - The Temptations
My Girl / Just My Imagination / Stay - The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards
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