“When She Was My Girl” by The Four Tops is a soulful ballad that resonates deeply with fans of classic R&B. Released in 1981, this track marked a significant period for the group, showcasing their enduring talent and ability to adapt to the evolving music landscape. The Four Tops, consisting of original members Levi Stubbs, Abdul “Duke” Fakir, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, and Lawrence Payton, were already well-established icons of Motown by the time this song was released.
Written by Marc Blatte and Larry Gottlieb, “When She Was My Girl” stands out as one of the Four Tops’ later hits, proving their musical versatility and emotional depth. The song was featured on their album “Tonight!”, which was released under Casablanca Records, a departure from their long association with Motown. This transition showcased the group’s ability to maintain their unique sound while embracing new production styles.
“When She Was My Girl” achieved impressive success on the charts, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Billboard R&B chart. This achievement was particularly notable as it marked the Four Tops’ return to prominence in the R&B scene after a period of relative quiet in their career. The song’s poignant lyrics and soulful melody captured the hearts of listeners, making it a staple on radio playlists during that time.
The lyrics of “When She Was My Girl” tell a story of lost love and nostalgia, with Levi Stubbs’ powerful and emotive vocals conveying a deep sense of longing and regret. The refrain, “When she was my girl, there was laughter and loving in my world,” encapsulates the bittersweet memory of a past relationship, making it a relatable and heartfelt ballad for many.
The Four Tops’ performance on this track is a testament to their timeless appeal and vocal excellence. Levi Stubbs’ lead vocals are as commanding and soulful as ever, while the harmonies provided by Fakir, Benson, and Payton add depth and richness to the song. The production, characterized by its smooth instrumentation and polished sound, reflects the contemporary R&B style of the early 1980s while retaining the classic Four Tops’ essence.
“When She Was My Girl” remains a beloved track for fans of The Four Tops and R&B enthusiasts alike. It serves as a reminder of the group’s incredible talent and their ability to create music that touches the soul. Even decades after its release, the song continues to evoke emotions and bring joy to listeners, solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic R&B hits.
She used to be
Everything to me
When she was my girl
When she was my girl
I held her near
Told her how much I cared
When she was my girl
When she was my girl
When 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, gone!
I spend the night
Dreaming how she used to be
When she was my girl
When she was my girl
When 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 legged girl is gone
She used to be
Everything to me
When she was my girl, yeah
My girl
She, she’s my girl
She’s so foxy baby 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 was my girl
