When Success Turned Dark: The Al Bryant Incident That Shook The Temptations
In the early 1960s, as Motown was rising and vocal groups were becoming household names across America, not every story behind the music was glamorous. One of the most troubling chapters in the early history of The Temptations involves founding member Al Bryant, whose personal struggles ultimately led to his dramatic exit from the group in 1963.
At the time, The Temptations were still defining their identity, performing relentlessly on the road and navigating the pressures of sudden opportunity. Al Bryant, one of the group’s original voices, was known for his strong presence and raw talent. However, behind the scenes, his heavy drinking increasingly became a problem. According to multiple accounts from that period, alcohol fueled a growing “bad attitude” that began to disrupt both rehearsals and performances. Motown, famously strict about discipline and professionalism, was watching closely.
Introduction
The breaking point reportedly came after a 1963 show, in an incident that has since become part of Motown lore. Following the performance, Bryant allegedly attacked fellow Temptation Paul Williams with a beer bottle during a heated confrontation. While details vary depending on the source, the consensus remains that the altercation crossed a line that could not be ignored. In an era when Motown artists were expected to project unity, polish, and control—both on and off stage—this kind of violence was unacceptable.
Soon after, Bryant was fired from the group, marking one of the earliest and most painful lineup changes in The Temptations’ long history. For fans, this moment is often overshadowed by the group’s later success, but insiders recognize it as a pivotal turning point. Bryant’s removal opened the door for a more stable lineup and reinforced Motown’s zero-tolerance approach to behavior that threatened the brand. It was also a sobering reminder that talent alone was never enough to survive in Berry Gordy’s tightly run empire.
For longtime listeners, especially those who lived through the 1960s, this episode adds emotional depth to the Temptations’ story. It highlights the human cost behind the harmonies—the personal battles, the fragile egos, and the immense pressure faced by young Black artists navigating fame in a turbulent era. 💔🎤
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Instrumental Intro]
[Verse 1]
I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day
When it’s cold outside, I’ve got the month of May[Pre-Chorus]
I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way?[Chorus]
My girl, my girl, my girl
Talkin’ ’bout my girl, my girl[Verse 2]
I’ve got so much honey, the bees envy me
I’ve got a sweeter song than the birds in the trees[Pre-Chorus]
Well, I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way?[Chorus]
My girl, my girl, my girl
Talkin’ ’bout my girl, my girl