Introduction:
The Temptations’ hit song My Girl is a cornerstone of Motown and a defining moment for the group. Released in December 1964, the song was written by Smokey Robinson and Ronnie White of The Miracles, who crafted it as an answer to Robinson’s previous hit for Mary Wells, My Guy. Inspired by his then-wife, Robinson sought to capture the simplicity and joy of deep affection, using heartfelt lyrics and smooth melodies to create a timeless expression of love​.
My Girl marked the first time David Ruffin took the lead vocal for The Temptations, highlighting his unique voice—a blend of smoothness and gravel—that Robinson saw as a hidden strength. Ruffin’s passionate delivery, combined with the instrumental backing of Motown’s house band, The Funk Brothers, turned the track into a crossover hit. The song’s signature bass line and iconic guitar riff set a powerful yet tender tone, resonating with audiences across racial lines at a pivotal time in American culture​.
This was the first single by The Temptations to reach No. 1 on the Billboard pop charts and quickly became the group’s first million-seller, propelling them to mainstream success. The song’s impact extended beyond the music world, influencing soul music’s growth and cementing Motown’s place in pop culture. Over the decades, My Girl has remained popular, covered by numerous artists across genres, including Otis Redding and The Rolling Stones, and featured in movies like The Big Chill and My Girl​