About the song
“Treat Her Like a Lady” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the Temptations’ ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences across generations. Released in 1984, this single marked a significant milestone in the group’s illustrious career, as it was the first to feature Ali-Ollie Woodson on lead vocals. Woodson, along with Otis Williams, co-wrote the song, which was also co-produced by Woodson and former Earth, Wind & Fire members Al McKay and Ralph Johnson.
The song’s success was nothing short of phenomenal, reaching number 2 on the R&B chart and number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also made a significant impact in the UK, reaching number 12 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s chart performance was a welcome return to form for the Temptations, who had been experiencing a lull in their commercial success in the years leading up to its release.
Musically, “Treat Her Like a Lady” is a masterclass in soulful harmonies and smooth, sophisticated production. The song’s lush instrumentation, courtesy of McKay and Johnson, provides a rich backdrop for Woodson’s soaring vocals, which are imbued with a sense of vulnerability and sincerity. The lyrics, penned by Woodson and Williams, offer a heartfelt plea for men to treat their female partners with kindness, respect, and understanding.
In the years since its release, “Treat Her Like a Lady” has become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless appeal, and its ability to transcend generations and genres. As a cultural artifact, “Treat Her Like a Lady” is a powerful reminder of the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect.
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Lyrics
Treat her like a lady
Hey, hey, hey
Instrumental
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh, yeah, baby
Whoa-whoa-oh-oh
Mmm
Now I-m the kinda guy who don’t believe
That chivalry is dead, no
‘Cause I believe a woman should be treated
With the utmost respect, mmm-hmm-
Don’t be afraid, don’t turn and walk away
I wanna get to know ya, well
Don’t be ashamed, don’t say that love’s to blame
Just come and look me over
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, woo-hoo-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky (Yeah) off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even (Help her with her coat) well
Treat her like a lady
In this world of liberation
It’s so easy to forget, mmm-
That it’s so nice to have a man around
To lend a helping hand, you can bet, bet you can, baby
When I was young, my mama used to say, boy
A woman’s like a flower, with love on her you shower
Ever since that day, her words never went away
I always will remember to treat my baby tender
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-ooh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
She’s a bad son-of-a-gun
I’m her lovin’ Don Juan
Treat her like a lady
Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-ooh-
Whoa-oh-oh-
Hey-hey-
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-baby
Every day, ever way
Hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-whoa-oh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat, help her out
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
Now boy, you should remember
To be a gentleman
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Hey-ey-)
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like (Well), treat her like
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Ooh-hoo-)
Treat her like a lady (Hoo-hoo-oh, my, my, treat her like a lady)