About The Song
The Temptations are an American vocal group that originated in Detroit, Michigan in 1960. They are known for their distinctive choreography, and their smooth, soulful vocals. The group’s original lineup consisted of Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, and David Ruffin.
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a song written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong. It was originally recorded by The Undisputed Truth in 1972, but it became a much bigger hit when it was covered by The Temptations later that same year. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
The song is a powerful ballad about a young woman who comes to terms with the death of her father. The lyrics tell the story of a man who was never there for his family, and how his daughter struggles to find her place in the world without him. The song is a moving and emotional portrait of a young woman’s journey of self-discovery, and it has become a classic of soul music.
The Temptations’ version of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is considered to be one of the greatest singles of all time. It was ranked number 122 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2004. The song has been covered by many other artists, including Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Elton John.
“Papa Was a Rolling Stone” is a powerful and moving song that has resonated with listeners for generations. It is a song about loss, love, and redemption, and it continues to be a popular choice for funerals and memorials.
Some interesting facts about the song:
- The song was originally written for The Temptations, but it was rejected by the group’s lead singer, David Ruffin.
- The song’s producer, Norman Whitfield, was inspired to write the song after reading an article about a young woman who was living on the streets.
- The song’s lyrics were controversial at the time of its release, because they dealt with the subject of child abandonment.
- The song has been used in several films and television shows, including “The Sopranos” and “The Simpsons.”
If you’re a fan of soul music, or if you’re just looking for a great song to listen to, then I highly recommend checking out “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” by The Temptations. It’s a classic song that has stood the test of time, and it’s sure to move you.
Video
Lyric
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
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]