About the song
“Get Ready” is a timeless Motown classic that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Written by the legendary Smokey Robinson, this song has been a staple of the Motown catalog, with two hit records to its name. The original version by The Temptations, released in 1966, peaked at No. 29 on the US pop charts, while the 1970 version by Rare Earth reached No. 4. This song is significant not only for its catchy melody and infectious rhythm but also for its historical context.
The Temptations’ version of “Get Ready” was produced by Smokey Robinson and features the group’s signature harmonies, with Eddie Kendricks taking the lead vocals. The song was designed as an answer to the latest dance craze, “The Duck,” and its up-tempo beat and prominent rhythm, courtesy of Motown drummer Benny Benjamin, make it a standout track. The song’s success was not limited to the US charts, as it reached No. 1 on the US R&B singles chart and No. 10 in the UK in 1969.
The song’s B-side, “Fading Away,” is a beautiful ballad that showcases Kendricks’ vocal range and emotional delivery. Written by Smokey Robinson, Pete Moore, and Bobby Rogers, this song was later included on the Temptations’ 1966 album Gettin’ Ready. Despite its success, “Get Ready” marked a turning point in the Temptations’ career, as Norman Whitfield’s song “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” would eventually replace Robinson as the group’s producer. This song’s legacy continues to be felt, with its catchy melody and memorable lyrics making it a beloved classic among music fans.
Video
Lyrics
I never met a girl who makes me feel the way that you do
It’s alright
Whenever I’m asked who makes my dreams real, I say that you do
You’re outta sight
So, fee-fi-fo-fum
Look out, baby, ’cause here I come
And I’m bringing you a love that’s true
So get ready, so get ready
I’m gonna try to make you love me too
So 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 you
It’s alright
But the lovin’ you’re gonna miss in the time it takes to find you
It’s outta sight
So, fiddley-dee, fiddley-dum
Look out, baby, ’cause here I come
And I’m bringing you a love that’s true
So get ready, so get ready
I’m gonna try to make you love me too
So 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 it
Be alright
I hope I get to you before they do, the way I planned it
Be outta sight
So, fiddley-dee, fiddley-dum
Look out, baby, ’cause here I come
And I’m bringing you a love that’s true
So get ready, so get ready
I’m gonna try to make you love me too
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come
(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way