About the Song
The Temptations’ 1966 rendition of “Get Ready” isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. Originally written by Smokey Robinson for The Miracles, The Temptations’ version took the original’s dance floor energy and infused it with their signature soulful swagger, creating a Motown classic that continues to ignite dance floors and inspire generations of musicians.
The Temptations, known for their powerhouse vocals and electrifying stage presence, deliver a performance brimming with infectious energy. Lead singer Eddie Kendricks sets the tone from the opening line, “I was walkin’ down the street / Didn’t have a dime to eat,” with his soulful delivery that perfectly blends urgency and playfulness.
The lyrics, while seemingly simple, capture the excitement of a new dance craze. Lines like, “Get ready ’cause here I come / I got somethin’ good for everyone” act as an invitation, urging listeners to join the fun. The song doesn’t delve into the specific steps of the dance; it focuses on the pure joy of movement and the unifying power of music.
The melody, a stark contrast to the Miracles’ smoother original, is driven by a thumping bass line and punctuated by Melvin Robinson’s searing harmonica riffs. It’s a song designed to get you moving, with a call-and-response section between Kendricks and his fellow Temptations that further emphasizes the song’s infectious energy.
The Temptations’ “Get Ready” transcends its origins as a dance craze anthem. It’s a celebration of letting loose, embracing the moment, and finding joy in the simple act of moving your body to the music. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to capture the universal human desire for connection and the transformative power of music to bring people together.
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Lyrics: “Get Ready”
I never met a girl who makes me feel the way that you do. (You’re alright)
Whenever I’m asked who makes my dreams real, I say that you do. (You’re outta sight)So, fee-fi-fo-fum
Look out baby, ’cause here I come.And I’m bringing you a love that’s true.
So get ready, so get ready.
I’m gonna try to make you love me too.
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come.(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way.
(Get ready ’cause here I come)If you wanna play hide and seek with love, let me remind you (It’s alright)
But the lovin’ you’re gonna miss and the time it takes to find you (It’s outta sight)So, fiddley-dee, fiddley-dum
Look out baby, ’cause here I come.And I’m bringing you a love that’s true.
So get ready, so get ready.
I’m gonna try to make you love me too.
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come.(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way.
(Get ready ’cause here I come)
(Get ready)[Instrumental]
If all my friends should want you too, I’ll understand it. (Be alright)
I hope I get to you before they do, the way I planned it. (Be outta sight)So tweedley-dee, tweedley-dum
Look out baby, ’cause here I come.And I’m bringing you a love that’s true.
So get ready, so get ready.
I’m gonna try to make you love me too.
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come.(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way.
(Get ready ’cause here I come)
(Get ready ’cause here I come-a)
(Get ready)