They were a revolving door of members and interpersonal drama. But through stormy seas and calm water alike, The Temptations managed to concoct the ultimate musical triumph, “Treat Her Like a Lady.” Upon its release in 1984, “Treat Her Like a Lady” gave listeners a taste of what perfection sounds like, and 40 years later, it puts modern music to utter shame.
Appearing on the Temptations album Truly for You, “Treat Her Like a Lady” was Ali-Ollie Woodson’s first song sung as lead. It also represented a reprieve from the rough period the band went through, becoming their biggest R&B hit since ‘75. To this day, it has original fans and newcomers alike swearing off today’s music in favor of something truly magical.
The Temptations won again when they released “Treat Her Like a Lady”
Woodson wrote “Treat Her Like a Lady” in collaboration with singer-songwriter Otis Williams. It’s especially bittersweet thinking of this teamup since Otis, one of the band’s founders, is the last surviving original member of The Temptations. The Texarkana, Texas native is 82 years old as of last autumn and, for a time, was married to the housekeeper of none other than Tina and Ike Turner. Small world.
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As a member of The Temptations, Otis was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.
It’s a well-deserved honor. Just look at “Treat Her Like a Lady,” which rocketed to number 2 on the R&B chart. It also placed at number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100. Across the pond, it made it to number 12 on the UK Singles Chart.
The people have spoken
There should definitely be a winner’s category for songs that just never get old, that age like the finest wine, and that best convert modern listeners to the perfect listening experience. “I’m 22 and I would definitely rather this kind of music instead of the music in this generation,” one fan commented on YouTube.
In a similar vein, a longtime fan cheered, “I’m 70 years old, the TEMPTATIONS still got it, the moves, sound, and charisma, love them ALWAYS!!!!” Another spoke to just how universally relevant the tune is, urging, “All father’s should let their son’s listening to this song.”
Bandmate Richard Street praised Woodson as “a bright and shining star” for his creative musical vision. Woodson co-wrote five tracks on Touch Me, and two on To Be Continued, continuing The Temptations’ legacy of unrivaled success for years.
