Guest ArtistsThe Temptations

For more than 50 years, The Temptations have prospered, propelling popular music with a series of smash hits and sold-out performances throughout the world. “The crowds are bigger, the sales are sizzling,” says one industry report. “The outpouring of affection for this super-group has never been greater.”

The history of The Temptations is the history of contemporary American pop. An essential component of the original Motown machine, that amazing engine invented by Berry Gordy, The Temps began their musical life in Detroit in the early 60s. It wasn’t until 1964, however, that the Smokey Robinson written-and-produced “The Way You Do the Things You Do” turned the guys into stars.

An avalanche of hits followed, with many, such as ”My Girl,” attaining immortality. “It’s Growing,” “Since I Lost My Baby,” “Get Ready,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Beauty is Only Skin Deep,” “I Wish It Would Rain”… the hits kept coming.

The classic lineup was Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, Paul Williams, Eddie Kendricks and David Ruffin. Beyond the fabulous vocals, The Temptations became known for smooth stepping and flawless presentations. The Temptations Walk became a staple of American style. Flair, flash and class. Millions of fans saw The Temptations as cultural heroes.

When the 60s and 70s turned political, The Temps got serious. They changed their tone, dress and music. Producer Norman Whitfield led the way. His Temptations hits, many featuring Dennis Edwards who had replaced David Ruffin, burned with intensity. “Runaway Child” “Cloud Nine,” “I Can’t Get Next to You,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and “Psychedelic Shack” still smolder.

Other stellar singers (Richard Street, Ali-Ollie Woodson and Theo Peoples) joined and adding their luster to the group’s growing fame. No matter the change in personnel, The Temptations remained true to The Temptations tradition. They survived the whims of fashion, whether disco or techno, and stuck to their guns. “Great singing,” says Otis, “will always prevail.”

In the 80s, The Temps prevailed with smash-hit penned by Otis Williams, “Treat Her Like a Lady.” Then in the 90s, another Temptation explosion:

It began with their appearance on Motown 25 in 1983; it continued with the NBC mini-series that chronicled the group’s history, a ratings triumph over two nights in prime time. An Emmy award followed.

“The more we change,” says veteran Ron Tyson, “the more we stay true to ourselves. We’re about singing straight-up soul. It’s a style that will live on forever.” The soaring voice of the Philadelphia born-and-raised Tyson is perhaps the best high tenor in the business.

Terry Weeks grew up in Alabama and spent eight years in the Air Force before his chance encounter with Otis. After an a cappella audition on a Hollywood street corner, Otis was so impressed and brought him into The Temptations family.

Larry Braggs is passionate, powerful and very spiritual. Cut from the same cloth as some of the world's greatest vocalists, Braggs has one of the most notable voices in the business. With a vocal range over three octaves and a command of the stage like no other, Braggs has become one of the most electrifying entertainers on tour. This has gained him the respect and praise of his peers and fans all over the world.

Willie Greene is a bass vocalist who was born in Birmingham, Alabama. In the early 60s Willie first saw The Temptations on The Lloyd Thaxton Show. They sang "The Way You Do the Things You Do" and "Get Ready."

“Even though I was just a child, I knew that I was a Temptation Forever!’ Throughout my career I have had the honor, privilege and pleasure of recording and performing with Lyle Lovett, Ry Cooder, Dolly Parton, John Fogerty, George Harrison(The Beatles)....This opportunity to become a part of the ‘Great Temptation Legacy’ is truly God's greatest musical gift to me! I would like to thank Mr. Otis Williams for his tenacity in keeping the group together and granting me this opportunity!” says Greene.

“Our challenge,” says Otis Williams, “is to live in the present while respecting the past. Our past is filled with riches only a fool would discard. At the same time, we thrive on competition. As a Motowner, I grew up in the most competitive musical atmosphere imaginable. But we also understand that for a group with history, no matter how glorious that history might be, reinvention is the name of the game.”

“When I tell people we are God’s group,” says Williams, “I don’t mean it arrogantly. It’s just that we have been tested time and again and keep coming back. We have suffered the death of so many legendary singers: Paul Williams, David Ruffin, Eddie Kendricks and Melvin Franklin. Others like Dennis Edwards, Richard Street, Ali-Ollie Woodson and Theo Peoples have left, and yet our unity is tighter, our sound brighter and our popularity greater. Someone has watched over this group. Someone has protected our integrity. Someone has said, just go on singing and it’ll get better.”