About the song
The Temptations and the Soulful Sounds of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone”
Emerging from the vibrant Motown scene of the 1960s, The Temptations quickly established themselves as one of the most iconic and influential vocal groups in American music history. With their smooth harmonies, captivating stage presence, and an endless stream of soulful hits, The Temptations left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music. One of their most enduring and celebrated masterpieces is the 1972 single, “Papa Was a Rolling Stone”.
A Song of Love, Loss, and Redemption
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a powerful ballad that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. The song’s narrative follows a woman who recounts her tumultuous relationship with her father, a restless and philandering man who prioritized his own desires over the needs of his family. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a childhood marked by instability and emotional neglect, yet amidst the pain, there is an undercurrent of love and longing for the father figure who was often absent.
The Temptations’ Soulful Interpretation
The Temptations’ rendition of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a masterclass in soulful storytelling. Their smooth, emotive vocals perfectly capture the raw emotions of the lyrics, while the arrangement, with its driving beat, gospel-infused harmonies, and orchestral flourishes, creates an atmosphere of both heartache and hope. Each member of the group brings their unique vocal talents to the song, creating a cohesive and unforgettable performance.
A Timeless Classic
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” quickly rose to the top of the charts upon its release, becoming The Temptations’ third number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s critical acclaim was equally resounding, earning the group a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group in 1973.
Beyond its commercial success and critical accolades, “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” has cemented its place as a timeless classic in the annals of popular music. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, resonating with those who have experienced the complexities of family relationships and the challenges of navigating love and loss.
The song’s legacy is further solidified by its numerous covers by renowned artists across genres, including The Rolling Stones, who released their own version in 1978.
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a testament to The Temptations’ enduring artistry and their ability to craft music that transcends time and genre. It is a song that continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and connect us with our shared human experiences.
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Lyrics
“Papa Was A Rolling Stone”
It was the third of September
That day I’ll always remember, yes I will
Cause that was the day, that my daddy died
I never got a chance to see him
Never heard nothin’ but bad things about him
Momma I’m depending on you, to tell me the truth
Momma just hung her head and said, son[Chorus:]
Papa was a rolling stone, (my son)
Where ever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone[Chorus]
Hey Momma!
Is it true what they say that Papa never worked a day, in his life
And Momma, some bad talk goin’ round town sayin’ that Papa had three outside children
And another wife, and that ain’t right
Heard them talking Papa doing some store front preachin’
Talked about saving souls and all the time reaching
Dealing in debt, and stealing in the name of the law
Momma just hung her head and said…[Chorus 2x]
Hey Momma,
I heard Papa called himself a jack of all trades
Tell me is that what sent Papa to an early grave
Folks say Papa would beg, borrow, steal
To pay his billsHey Momma,
Folks say Papa never was much on thinking
Spent most of his time chasing women and drinking
Momma I’m depending on you, to tell me the truth
Momma looked up with a tear in her eye and said, son…[Chorus 4x]