The Temptations – Get Ready: A Soulful Call to Action Disguised as Dance Craze Delight
Ah, The Temptations. Their smooth harmonies, electrifying stage presence, and socially conscious lyricism solidified their place as not only musical icons, but cultural commentators as well. Among their vast repertoire of hits, “Get Ready” stands out as a fascinating piece, blending infectious dance rhythms with a powerful underlying message.
Background
Released in 1966, “Get Ready” emerged at a pivotal moment for The Temptations. Smokey Robinson, their longtime producer and songwriter, was transitioning away from the group, paving the way for a new creative direction under the helm of Norman Whitfield. This shift is evident in the song’s composition.
While Robinson’s signature soulful balladry is present, particularly in Eddie Kendricks’ lead vocals, the driving rhythm section and prominent horns hint at the more hard-hitting productions that would define Whitfield’s era with The Temptations.
The song’s narrative is deceptively simple. On the surface, it appears to be a call to action for a new dance craze, the “Duck.”
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I never met a girl who makes me feel the way that you doIt’s alrightWhenever I’m asked who makes my dreams real, I say that you doYou’re outta sightSo, fee-fi-fo-fumLook out, baby, ’cause here I comeAnd I’m bringing you a love that’s trueSo get ready, so get readyI’m gonna try to make you love me tooSo 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 youIt’s alrightBut the lovin’ you’re gonna miss in the time it takes to find youIt’s outta sightSo, fiddley-dee, fiddley-dumLook out, baby, ’cause here I comeAnd I’m bringing you a love that’s trueSo get ready, so get readyI’m gonna try to make you love me tooSo 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 all my friends should want you too, I’ll understand itBe alrightI hope I get to you before they do, the way I planned itBe outta sight