About the song
Released in 1981, “When She Was My Girl” marked a significant resurgence for the legendary Motown group, The Four Tops. This infectious tune served as a powerful reminder of their enduring talent and ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape. It was their first single under the Casablanca Records label and propelled them back into the spotlight, achieving considerable success on both the pop and R&B charts.
The song’s nostalgic lyrics, coupled with the group’s signature harmonies, evoke a sense of longing and bittersweet romance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a past love and the memories that linger. The Four Tops’ soulful vocals effortlessly convey the emotional depth of the song, making it a timeless classic that resonates with listeners of all ages.
One of the most striking aspects of “When She Was My Girl” is its ability to seamlessly blend elements of classic Motown with contemporary R&B. The song’s production is polished and sophisticated, yet it retains the raw energy and authenticity that characterized the group’s earlier work. This harmonious blend of old and new is a testament to The Four Tops’ versatility as artists.
The song’s commercial success was undeniable. It not only reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 but also claimed the number one spot on the R&B charts. Internationally, it achieved similar levels of success, solidifying The Four Tops’ status as one of the most beloved and enduring groups in music history.
The enduring appeal of “When She Was My Girl” is evident in the fact that it has continued to be covered by artists of various generations. In 2022, Bruce Springsteen recorded his own version of the song for his album, “Only the Strong Survive,” further cementing its place in the music canon.
In conclusion, “When She Was My Girl” is a testament to The Four Tops’ enduring talent and ability to create timeless music. Its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and nostalgic lyrics have ensured its place as a beloved classic. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Four Tops or simply appreciate great music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
She used to be
Everything to me
When she was my girl (my girl)
When she was my girlI held her near
Told her how much I cared
When she was my girl (my girl)
When she was my girlWhen she was my girl
There was laughter and loving in my world
Everyday
When she was my girl
Oh, what joy she would bring
Now I’ve lost everything
She’s gone, gone, gone, gone, goneI spend the night
Dreaming how she used to be
When she was my girl (my girl)
When she was my girlWhen she was my girl
There was laughter and loving in my world
Yes it was
‘Cause she was my girl
Oh, what joy she would bring
Now I’ve lost everything
She’s gone, the big red girl has goneShe used to be
Everything to me
When she was my girl (my girl)
My girlShe, she, my girl
She’s so foxy, can’t you see
And this girl belongs to me
She’s my girl
When we walk down the street
I would tell everyone we meet
This is my girl
She, she, my girl