The Temptations Turn The Tables

Usually, the legendary soul group, The Temptations, are credited to be an inspiration to today’s artists. Now, this singing sensation returns the favor.

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The Temptations

The Temptations as you can see them perform today

The Temptations Embody Classic Soul

Firstly, let me apologize for blogging about an album released back in May 2018. I’m creating various playlists on Spotify to share with you. One of them is a list full of great classic soul songs. To me, that can’t work without The Temptations. Especially “My Girl” is one of those songs that just sums up nostalgic soul music. As I was working on the playlists, I noticed The Temptations released an album last year called “All The Time”. I knew they were still performing (with some line up changes), but what a feast to see them still releasing new music.

Of course, the line up of the group has changed often, over the years. In fact, there’s only one original member left in its current formation. He’s made it his mission to keep the band going, and he succeeded. Still, all current members have had a long track running in showbiz. The fact that this group has been around since the 60s also sparked a jukebox musical about them, which will head to Broadway this year.

Cover Songs

“All The Time” is the Temptations first new album in 8 years. It’s mainly filled with covers of today’s pop and soul songs. Songs by Michael Jackson, Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd, for example. OK, so I’m intrigued! Usually, The Temptations are credited to have inspired others, but on this album, they’ve turned the tables and you know what?! It leads to some interesting results.

The Weeknd’s “Earned It” gets a bit of a rhythm n blues make over, which I really love. Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me” is turned into a gospel version and Ed Sheeran’s “Laughing Out Load” gets more soulful. That all works really well. However, Michael Jackson’s “Remember The Time” sounds a bit messy or restless. In short, I prefer the original.

New Originals

Luckily, among all the tracks, there are also three original new songs on the album as well. With the funky “Move Them Britches” I feel almost compelled to say that The Temptations don’t necessary belong to the past. This track gives Bruno Mars a run for his money. “Waiting On You” and “Be My Wife” are perfect for all those romantic souls out there.

Altogether, if it were an unknown singing group who’d done this album, I would’ve played it, but not blogged about it. I love the fact that the masters showed they paid heed to their students. For the artists they covered, the honor couldn’t have been greater. That’s what makes this album special.

Listen To The Temptations

All songs I mention in my music blogs can be found on my Spotify Playlist, “Featured Music Blog Songs”.

The Temptations are also included in my “Soul Classics” Spotify playlist.

Keep Up With The Temptaions

Official website
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Watch The Temptations on YouTube

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