About the song
In the realm of Motown’s indelible mark on music history, The Temptations stand as true icons, their harmonies weaving tales of love, loss, and the complexities of the human experience. Among their many enduring gems, “The Way You Do the Things You Do” stands out as a timeless masterpiece, a soulful symphony of adoration and admiration that has captivated listeners for generations.
Released in 1964, “The Way You Do the Things You Do” emerged as an instant sensation, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing The Temptations’ status as soul music royalty. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its effortless blend of sophistication and heartfelt emotion, a testament to the songwriting prowess of Smokey Robinson and Robert Rogers.
From the opening notes, the song sets an intimate mood, with a gentle guitar strumming and a soft piano melody laying the foundation for Eddie Kendricks’ soaring vocals. Kendricks, known for his angelic falsetto, imbues each word with a tenderness that perfectly captures the song’s message of adoration.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love so profound that it transcends words, a love that finds beauty in every aspect of the beloved’s being. The singer marvels at the way their lover moves, talks, and even breathes, each action a source of wonder and delight.
“You make me feel like a million dollars,” Kendricks croons, his voice laced with awe and gratitude. The sentiment is simple yet profound, capturing the essence of a love that elevates and empowers.
The song’s chorus is an ode to the beloved’s unique charm, a testament to their ability to captivate and enthrall. “The way you do the things you do / My baby, you do it so right,” the Temptations harmonize, their voices intertwining in a tapestry of adoration.
“The Way You Do the Things You Do” is more than just a love song; it’s a celebration of the beauty and power of human connection. It’s a reminder that love can find magic in the mundane, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to touch the hearts of listeners across generations. It remains a staple in the Temptations’ repertoire, a cornerstone of Motown’s rich musical heritage, and a cherished gem in the vast treasury of soul music. As the final notes fade, leaving behind a lingering sense of warmth and contentment, one can’t help but agree with the song’s sentiment: “The way you do the things you do / My baby, you do it so right.”
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Lyrics
You’ve got a smile so bright, you know you could have been a candle
I’m holding you so tight, you know you could have been a handle
The way you swept me off my feet, you know you could have been a broom
The way you smell so sweet, you know you could have been some perfume
[Chorus:]
Well, you could have been anything that you wanted to
And I can tell, the way you do the things you do
As pretty as you are, you know you could have been a flower
If good looks was a minute, you know that you could be an hour
The way you stole my heart, you know you could have been a cool crook
And baby you’re so smart, you know you could have been a schoolbook
[Chorus]
You made my heart so rich, you know you could have been some money
And baby you’re so sweet, you know you could have been some honey
[Chorus]
You really swept me off my feet, you made my life complete
You made my life so bright, you make me feel alright