The Temptations – Just My Imagination (1971)

About the song

“Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)” by The Temptations is a soulful masterpiece that stands as a testament to the group’s extraordinary talent and the golden era of Motown. Released in 1971, this heartfelt ballad was written by the legendary songwriting duo Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong. It was included in the album *Sky’s the Limit*, which showcased The Temptations’ versatility and emotional depth.

“Just My Imagination” is a tender and melancholic song that tells the story of a man who dreams of a perfect romance, only to realize it exists solely in his imagination. Eddie Kendricks’ smooth and plaintive lead vocals, combined with the group’s flawless harmonies, create a poignant and dreamy atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners. The orchestral arrangement, featuring lush strings and gentle horns, adds to the song’s wistful charm.

Upon its release, “Just My Imagination” achieved significant success. It became The Temptations’ third number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and also reached the top of the R&B singles chart. This achievement marked another high point in the illustrious career of The Temptations, solidifying their status as one of Motown’s most successful and beloved acts.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes of love and longing, which continue to strike a chord with audiences of all ages. “Just My Imagination” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each rendition paying homage to the original’s timeless beauty.

For many, “Just My Imagination” evokes a sense of nostalgia and reflection, reminding us of the dreams and fantasies that shape our emotional lives. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics capture the essence of yearning and the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled desires. As a quintessential part of The Temptations’ rich musical legacy, “Just My Imagination” remains a beloved classic that continues to enchant and inspire listeners around the world.

Video

Lyrics

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Each day through my window I watch her as she passes by
I say to myself, “You’re such a lucky guy”
To have a girl like her is truly a dream come true
Out of all the fellows in the world, she belongs to you

But it was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me
It was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

Ooh (Soon)
Soon we’ll be married and raise a family (Oh yeah)
A cozy little home out in the country
With two children, maybe three
I tell you I (I, I) can visualize it all
This couldn’t be a dream, for too real it all seems

But it was just my imagination, once again
Runnin’ away with me
Tell you, it was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

Ev’ry night on my knees I pray
“Dear Lord, hear my plea
Don’t ever let another take her love from me”
Or I will surely die, hmm
(Her love is) heavenly
When her arms enfold me
I hear a tender rhapsody
But in reality
She doesn’t even know me

(Just my imagination) Once again
Runnin’ away with me, oh
Tell you it was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

I’ve never met her but I can’t forget her
(Just my imagination) Ooh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Runnin’ away with me, ooh
Just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

She’s never hard to find (Just my imagination)
She’s always on my mind (Runnin’ away with me)