Mary Wells: The Queen of the Motown Girl Group Era and Her Anthem, “My Guy”
Before the Supremes and the Temptations dominated the Motown sound, there was Mary Wells.
Background
A pioneer of the girl group era, Wells carved a distinctive niche for herself with her raw, soulful vocals and an uncanny ability to convey emotional depth. “My Guy”, is a timeless testament to her artistry and the enduring power of Motown.
Released in 1964, “My Guy” was a cultural phenomenon. Penned by the legendary Smokey Robinson, the song is a bold declaration of unwavering love and loyalty. Wells’ interpretation of the lyrics is nothing short of electrifying.
The song’s production, masterminded by the legendary Motown team of Holland-Dozier-Holland, is a perfect complement to Wells’ vocals. “My Guy” was more than just a hit record; it was a cultural touchstone.
While Mary Wells’ career was relatively short-lived, her impact on popular music is undeniable.
“My Guy” remains one of the most beloved and enduring songs of the Motown era. It is a testament to Wells’ talent and the enduring power of great songwriting.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Nothing you could say could tear me away from my guyNothing you could do, ’cause I’m stuck like glue to my guyI’m sticking to my guy like a stamp to a letterLike birds of the feather, we stick togetherI’m tellin’ you from the start, I can’t be torn apart from my guyNothing you could do could make me untrue to my guy (my guy)Nothing you could buy could make me tell a lie to my guy (my guy, my guy)I gave my guy my word of honor to be faithful, and I’m gonnaYou best be believing I won’t be deceiving my guyAs a matter of opinion, I think he’s topsMy opinion is, he’s the cream of the cropAs a matter of taste, to be exactHe’s my ideal, as a matter of factNo muscle-bound man could take my hand from my guy (my guy)No handsome face could ever take the place of my guy (my guy, my guy)He may not be a movie star, but when it comes to bein’ happy, we areThere’s not a man today who could take me away from my guy