That is so true. Gotta look at what you have not what you 'could have had'. He's got a wonderful, beautiful wife who will look after him. And they have a community of people who care about and respect them.
Way more "real" than anything in HipHop. I mean I enjoy HipHop but I really hope black people get back to instruments and playing music. Now just rhyming over a back track.
The music was haunting and the pauses in the music after the real life of his dad was exposed were well placed. A very well written song and so well performed..
@@miket7281 They "rhymed over a backtrack" back then cause they were poor kids with no access to instruments. Thats why hip was was born. But in this day and age making a record is something just about anyone can do with little money so i agree, i'd like to see more musicianship put back into mainstream black music.
🙋🏻♀️My Papa was also a Rolling Stone. My Daddy had 15 “outside children “ along with the 3 of us. No wives. This song has always meant a lot to me. It’s REAL TALK. 💕
Yeah. I know so many guys that have been through the same situation! It's even worse today because a large number of females don't really respect themselves and the males are just like wolves in sheep clothing!!
@@CourtneyKing-ln7kq I’m not proud, but also not ashamed. I’ve met all of my brothers and sisters and we agree that the “mistakes” were theirs and not ours. We accept and love one another so it all worked out for us. Child support?? What’s that? 😂
This is a very rare thing - the perfect song..... from any way you look at it..... lyrically, vocally and especially instrumentally. The deepest, fattest groove ever pulls you in from the start and the song has you spellbound all the way to the end. This is why music means so much to so many!
Love the Temptations music. This is part of the Motown era & they had a lot of hits in the 60's - 80's such as "Ain't Too Proud To Beg", "I Wish It Would Rain", "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)", "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone", "I Can't Get Next To You", "Treat Her Like A Lady", "My Girl" etc. They were known for their harmonies, choreography & dress style.
Yes, "My Girl", "Just My Imagination", "Ain't Too Proud To Beg", and "The Way You Do The Things You Do" are some good choices by The Temptations to follow this one up.
What I love about you two is how proudly show how much you love and care about each other. I could see the concern in your eyes when you were looking at him at 5:30 thru 5:48. You guys are beautiful together.
Check out another one of their socially conscious songs from that time, "Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)." All credit to Motown writer/producer Norman Whitfield and co-writer Barrett Strong for a whole bunch of these darker, terrific songs for Motown by the Temps and others in the late '60s and early '70s.
And "Psychedelic Shack" by the Temptations. Not to mention the big hits "War" by Edwin Starr and "Smiling Faces Sometimes" by The Undisputed Truth which were also Whitfield/Strong songs that were first recorded by the Temptations and then passed along to their fellow Motown artists.
My husbands grandfather was a preacher in Mississippi and had another family. Raised my husband, his brothers and his two uncles who were granddaddy's kids and were all the same age. It's real! The stories I hear from my husband are amazing. I have a hard time understanding sometimes. Great reaction.
My Mother began dating my Father's brother, George but didn't like him. My Mother's girlfriends hooked her up on a blind date with my Father and she fell in love with him for some reason. She never regretted that decision. George would marry a woman, get her pregnant with a son, then when they were about 12, go out for a cigar or something and never return. He didn't bother to get a divorce. Our last name of Pahlka is easy to find in a telephone book, we are all related in America. George showed up when I was about 12 or 13 with a boy my age and an younger girl. I have no idea who was their mother was, George came in from Denver and didn't bring her. Do I have other cousins I don't know about? I don't know the boy and I were sent out to play. One of my cousins I did know about became hooked up with the singer and guitar genius, Carlos Santana. Somehow George heard about it and he shows up calling my cousin, Bill, out of the blue. Note: My cousin's birth name was George. Nobody called him that. By a coincidence, Bill discovered he had a half-brother named Paul who was born on the exact same day, eight years apart. Every birthday they'd call each other. The first thing Bill did was to call Paul and warn him their father was in town. George Sr. called Paul saying "I am your Father......." CLICK. Paul heard enough. George Sr. called my Dad. Both were raised paperhangers/ painters so my Dad gave him some work. He messed up the jobs so my Dad had to redo it for free. Then George went to live with his older sister. She laid down the rule he would not drink in her house. She caught him and put him into a mental institution for alcoholics in Napa, Calif. Before this, my parents took him to dinner at a Mexican restaurant near us. He stared at me and said "My son" and began drooling uncontrollably so we had to rush him out. I think that was when Dad asked their sister to keep him. (Excuse the narration, I haven't figured out how to move my sentences around yet,) By another coincidence, his youngest sister, my Aunt Gladys and her oldest daughter were nurses in Napa. When George died, they put all his possessions in a shoe box and handed it to me. Inside was George's birth certificate and baby pictures of his new born son, Paul and his mother. George had kept them all these years. If he deserted not only them but one wife and son before, then why? George's cause of death was alcoholic dementia. Some people seem to be born with genes where alcohol acts as heroin or opioids do to others. George would get paid on Friday and drink all through the weekend and miss work Monday. His son, Bill, couldn't just take that one drink either. My Dad and my cousin Paul could. For medical reasons, doing a family history is important. As a side comment, I have a photo of George, my Aunt Lucille and Aunt Gladys holding a infant who on the backside was written, baby Wallace. When I was stationed in Ft. Gorden, Ga., near Florida where my paternal Grandmother moved to after my Grandfather divorced her, I was afraid I'd meet some woman my age and fall instantly in love with her only to find out we were first cousins. With your mixed up family tree did you have the same fear? After my Grandmother moved to Florida my father never saw or heard of her again although my parents did try to go from S.F. to Florida right after they were married. They worked their way across the U.S. until they hit Mississippi but after one day of picking cotton, my Mom made my Dad go back to California where it's cool. My Mom and other women in my family could not handle the heat at all! That too, like alcoholism may be genetic. Hope I didn't bore you too much, my sister and I are writers. We don't know where we got it from. 😆
I managed a housing community for several years. We had a guy that had children with 6 different women living out there and he brought in another one, pregnant. But, they did not actually know about each other until they got called in for recertification and you have to verify child support etc. What got me about it was all these kids out there, not knowing they were related. And, I am pretty sure he had a few other kids with other women that didn't live there. Very sad.
The Temptations and Motown were very much a part of the "soundtrack " of this era with all that was occurring in society....love it and thanks for playing. Nice to see you keep this great music alive.
Shawn- you honor me by sharing your experience with your father, and I am moved and grateful. Some of us had fathers that showed us how NOT to live, and in that, they were great teachers.
I’ve been listening to this song for 40 years but I was in tears watching Sean’s reaction. I think a lot of us old people who loved this song forget about what it really meant and what it was saying… We were so busy dancing. I’m 73 now and I love this reaction channel, I love the realness of Shawn and Mel
If you haven’t already watched the made for movie TV The Temptations please watch it. It is a real life story about their lives and how they climbed to success at Motown and this song is in there. The movie came out in 1998. The founder of The Temptations Otis Williams a Hans in the movie. It is a touching story and lots of awesome music!!
You two are just so beautiful. You’ve become my favorite reaction channel. You love each other so much, and you’re both so authentic. I was feeling Shawn’s pain from the very beginning, you could see it in his face and posture - and you could see that Mel was feeling it too, for her husband. This came out when I was about 11 or 12. We all loved it, we danced to it - but we knew it was sad, and we knew it was true. Now my beloved Goddaughter Queenie, 27 years old, whose father was also a rolling stone and a very troubled man, is raising two girls, neither of whom has much of a relation to their fathers. This is generational and a kind of curse - I felt I helped her break the generational curse of physical abuse, that she suffered from her mom - she’s a wonderful mom to her two daughters - my God-granddaughters Harmony and Zion. But I couldn’t help her break that other one - of the missing dads. It breaks my Heart. Love you both - thank you - you’ve brought me a lot of Joy over these lockdown months - even when it’s been sad - which reminds me - have you reacted to Frankie Beverly and Maze’s JOY AND PAIN? You definitely should if you haven’t. Thank you for all you do.
This is my favorite Temptations song. I was 18 and living in Madagascar, used to dance to this all the time at the clubs. The lyrics may be sad but the music is GENIUS!!😎😎😎😎
Was EXTREMELY moved by your reaction. Songs bring up and stir so many REAL emotions both good and bad. Hats off to you for surviving and moving past the obvious feelings this song conjures up. Big Hugs
I’m feeling for ya, Shawn. 💔The pain from your father’s behavior is different than mine, but momma saying “and when he died, all he left us was alone” so resonated with me. Honestly, it was a relief for me when my father died.
Watching your reaction to this song broke my heart. I know that it was one of their biggest hits and a deep song and at the time it was celebrated in a different way. I never experienced what the lyrics was saying however watching your reactions had me experience the song in a completely different way. With that said, the temptations is still one of the greatest groups of all times and I hope that you continue to explore their music.
Also... ALWAYS remember this! Secrets aren't worth keeping, man. You're NOT alone! You just think you are because everyone is holding secrets! 😎 Let the shit out, and the world will show you that you're not alone... and you'll help other people let shit out, in the process. And then NO ONE has to feel alone.
You’re not alone. My husband grew up thinking one of his cousins was actually his brother. Life is hard but the music is great and helps with the pain.
Y'know, I've known and heard this song for most of my life since I was a little kid, but I've never seen it hit anyone so hard. Great to see someone react to it with fresh ears!
My Girl, Ain’t to Proud to Beg, Just My Imagination and many more, these guys were huge stars , very popular Motown sounds from 60’s to 80’s. This is a favorite played and played sending messages like Marvin Gaye 🇨🇦☮️🎵
Temptations & The Four Tops we’re the best, they had sing offs & dance offs on tv / videos. We had great parties with these two groups ! I absolutely love the Temptations 💞🎼☮️🎵💗🥰🤗❣️
This one of the realest songs ever made about dysfunctional family life. We know there are plenty of good fathers-but for those who have experienced this-this song hits home!
Unfortunately, there are quite a few who have had to face a situation like that. Myself included. I can remember how envious I was of other kids who had fathers who did things with them, took time to be there for them, but most of all, teaching them things they needed growing up. The one thing I promised myself was that I would always be there for my kids, showing them just how appreciated they are. We can't do nothing about the past but we can the future.
May the good Lord heal your heart Michael.I used to struggle with my father's leaving,but one day I just realized he just didn't have " that tool" in his toolbox! I forgave him.Good for you for being a stand up dad!👏🏿👊
Your reaction from being from a broken home was like my father's. Getting Dad to talk about his past was almost impossible. To get information about my family's history still is a lot of work. His father left for Chicago to find work and to play the violin. Coming back, he'd get drunk and start accusing my grandmother of cheating, saying my uncle and my Dad weren't his. It was all a lie, verified by one of my Dad's cousins. It turns out my grandfather was the one who cheated. Being Catholic, infidelity was the only way to get a divorce. The only way my grandmother could survive was to remarry and that man didn't want someone else's kids. My father took it really hard, he was only ten. My Dad went to one family and ran away. My Uncle George went to a family of cheats and alcoholics. My two Aunts lived with a good relative but his wife worked the girls like slaves and stole the checks my grandfather would send for support. The only good thing my grandfather did for my Dad was to teach him a trade. His brother George, would get with his deadbeat cousins he was raised with and be just like them, cheating, stealing and whatever, mooching, telling a great sob story or trying to get others to give money for some get rich quick scheme. I always wondered why my Dad was so different. He fell in love with my Mom and her Mother gave my Dad and his two sisters tough love. Because of my Mom's Mother it was my Dad, not his brother George or his father who went from California to Oklahoma to get his sisters out of a convent after they ran away living on the streets because they couldn't take their adopted "mother" anymore. Asking Dad why it was he wasn't like George or his father, he couldn't say. There had to be a few times he vowed to himself he was going to be a good father as his prime goal in life. When he lay dying in much pain, I said, "Dad, you raised three good kids." He smiled at that, maybe it was the last time he smiled before he died, the nurse came in, telling us it was time to leave. We had to go back to Las Vegas. It was the last time I saw him, he died two weeks later before we could visit again. My Mother dated George before she was tricked into dating my Dad. She liked him better. I kind of shutter to think George could have been my father instead! I think Heaven smiled on me but my Father had to make that soul searching decision despite not being raised religiously. I'm glad you did also.😁
Many people don't realize that this song described the situation of black men back in the 60's and 70's during the welfare state and the black exploitation period. They became more dependent on black women who, themselves became more dependent on government assistance, the black exploitation period inspired black men to be hustlers, (pimps and drug dealers). Too many people today completely ignore this crucial time period which became so pivotal in changing the black community was headed, from growing success to overwhelming dependency which has continued to plague most black Americans today. This song was a reflection of that era.
And the basis of the Motown Sound was; Holland-Dozier-Holland was a songwriting and production team made up of Lamont Dozier and brothers Brian and Eddie Holland.[1] The trio wrote, arranged and produced many songs that helped define the Motown sound in the 1960s.[
Say Hey Shawn and Mel--I've never seen you both so upset. I'm a big Temps fan and this is probably their most emotionally powerful song. And it's a spectacular production with about the longest intro ever on a hit record. Really great. Very moving reaction.
The beginning you see the young actors from The Temptations movie -you must see it. GENIUS! And one of the best lyrics EVER- And when he died, all he left us was ...Alone!
It really is a great portrayal of their story. I really appreciate that movie. I thought the word on that song was ....and when he died all he left us was "a loan" (!). Not sure!
I about died when Mel was repeating the lyrics, ending with & mama just hung her head & said papa was a rolling stone, the expression on your face was priceless.
*"Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)"* is another very serious song by The Temptations, with a lot of energy to match the title. They are so good! Too much talent on one stage. They got voices and the showmanship.
These old songs can be very healing, because they are honest. This is how life was and is how life is now. Its universal because the stories are real. When you hear songs like these and they touch a heart string, let yourself feel the emotion and take comfort in knowing the you are not alone. That is why I say they can be healing. Loved all of your reactions today. They just keep getting better and better as each week goes by. :)
So perfectly written-awesome message and story song. Whoever the band was when this was recorded should have won a grammy award for best band of the decade. That opening bass line and the funky beat are unforgettable and iconic.
I've heard this song many times growing up but never REALLY paid attention to the lyrics until watching you two react to it. Shawn, you have my deepest sympathy and mad respect for going through what you did and turning into the MAN you are today! Much love to you both!
A whole catalogue of hits from these guys you should listen to. THE Temptations were a part of the Motown clan. Some of their hits include "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" "My Girl" "Just My Imagination" "Treat Her Like Lady" Wonderful group Fabulous songs. ❤🎤🎶🎼💃🕺
This one of the greatest songs of that time. The Motown sound is my second favorite musical genre. This video brings back lots of memories. Everybody watched Soul Train on Saturday.
I have to say, I've always focused on the cool music and vocal ranges of the guys, that I never REALLY paid a whole lot of attention to the words. Sure I heard them but it was the music I was always focused on. But seeing your faces to the lyrics being sung, brought a tear to my eye. Thanks for keeping it real.
💋 temptation 💋 Beautiful sound Doesn't matter what Papa did just learn from him and don't become that type of PAPA is the best lesson to learn 🧐 Australia 💕 Christina
Shawn my heart goes out to you, I watched Mel looking at you very worried, Props to you two for posting your honest and heartfelt reaction, it was really beautiful
I just got a chance to check this out and I have to say Shawn thank you for sharing your story. Sometimes great music touches a nerve . I feel for you!!! Love the Temptations.
Here is what you need to remember, each generation can learn and grow from their parents mistakes. My son's father walked out of his life at 8. My son is now a father himself and is so devoted to his daughter. He will never make his daughter suffer like he did. Your Mama did a great job with you!!!
I was a skinny White NAVY boy, stuck in Memphis in 1971. New sights, new foods, new sounds. Played the hell out of "Shaft" at the laundromat jute box. The Black folks must've thought I was crazy. I dug the clothes, the atmosphere, the people. An eye opening experience for a young guy heading out into a much bigger world. The Temptations pushed me along, and I became a lifelong Motown fan. You should see my record collection. The Spinners 'Rubberband Man' is my theme song. At 69, it still is. Nice and LOUD, too!
My mother told all us kids that people make mistakes that hurt but we had to pay attention and not make the same mistakes dad did make our own way. That’s all you can do is try to be better than those you don’t like. It appears to me you are doing real good at being the best you can.
I watched the Temptations in a lounge show in Las Vegas. It was so awesome when Paul Anka joined them on stage. I felt I was so lucky to hear so much talent on stage. Paul can play so many instruments. I was in awe of all the talent on stage. This was in 1969, and forget this show. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I loved the temptations...smokey Robinson and the miracles...the four tops...but to be honest...didn't pay a lot of attention to what they were saying...we were so young and groovin...now at 70...listening better...ty for your channel 😀 love it ♥️♥️
I’ve been listening to this song for 40 years but I was in tears watching Sean’s reaction. I think a lot of us old people who loved this song forget about what it really meant and what it was saying… We were so busy dancing. I’m 73 now and I love this reaction channel, I love the realness of Shawn and Mel
Same here. In 1972 I heard it but put it in my mind to check it out later. The Temptations were always good but this one went deeper. In '72' I was in the Marines and had more important duties. Last year, I found their greatest hits in a thrift store and picked it up. I recalled "My Girl" and others I liked but "Papa Was a Rolling Stone" blew me away like few others. It was the first time I really listened to the lyrics and marveled over the arrangement. One of my uncles was like this guy's Papa. Every family has a black sheep, a guy or gal who's charming, intelligent, and probably from drugs or alcohol or whatever ends up hurting not only themselves but anyone who cares. Because of that and how well it's done it is a classic which often isn't that well appreciated when it first came out.
Shawn u may have lost ur father but darlin just look at ya now, God has brought u a whole S&M Family and we love ya!!!
That is so true. Gotta look at what you have not what you 'could have had'. He's got a wonderful, beautiful wife who will look after him. And they have a community of people who care about and respect them.
@@Paul-me5tp 💯
Amen! ❤️
sado-masochism?
✝️🙏❤️
One of the most striking and powerful songs ever. Every bit as "real" as anything in hiphop.
So true.
Way more "real" than anything in HipHop. I mean I enjoy HipHop but I really hope black people get back to instruments and playing music. Now just rhyming over a back track.
The music was haunting and the pauses in the music after the real life of his dad was exposed were well placed. A very well written song and so well performed..
It inspired Hip-hop. Funk and insightful lyrics.
@@miket7281 They "rhymed over a backtrack" back then cause they were poor kids with no access to instruments. Thats why hip was was born. But in this day and age making a record is something just about anyone can do with little money so i agree, i'd like to see more musicianship put back into mainstream black music.
" And when he died , All he left me, was Alone " Wow, that line stings.
oh, I always heard that " all he left us was a loan" meaning he left us debt. I was wrong for decades...
🙋🏻♀️My Papa was also a Rolling Stone. My Daddy had 15 “outside children “ along with the 3 of us. No wives. This song has always meant a lot to me. It’s REAL TALK. 💕
😢😢😢
Yeah. I know so many guys that have been through the same situation! It's even worse today because a large number of females don't really respect themselves and the males are just like wolves in sheep clothing!!
Take Care.
That's nothing to be proud of I venture he did not pay child support eitherr.
@@CourtneyKing-ln7kq I’m not proud, but also not ashamed. I’ve met all of my brothers and sisters and we agree that the “mistakes” were theirs and not ours. We accept and love one another so it all worked out for us. Child support?? What’s that? 😂
One of the greatest songs ever written.
This is a very rare thing - the perfect song..... from any way you look at it..... lyrically, vocally and especially instrumentally. The deepest, fattest groove ever pulls you in from the start and the song has you spellbound all the way to the end. This is why music means so much to so many!
Amen! I agree with your comment 100%! I think this song is a masterpiece in all aspects. ✌
I can’t add anything to your comment. It is THE perfect piece.
Is there anything written today that matches the caliber of a masterpiece like this?
@@chriscraftguy nope!
Music back then had a different feeling and meaning
Love the Temptations music. This is part of the Motown era & they had a lot of hits in the 60's - 80's such as "Ain't Too Proud To Beg", "I Wish It Would Rain", "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)", "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone", "I Can't Get Next To You", "Treat Her Like A Lady", "My Girl" etc. They were known for their harmonies, choreography & dress style.
Yes, "My Girl", "Just My Imagination", "Ain't Too Proud To Beg", and "The Way You Do The Things You Do" are some good choices by The Temptations to follow this one up.
Don't forget ball of confusion 🙂
What I love about you two is how proudly show how much you love and care about each other. I could see the concern in your eyes when you were looking at him at 5:30 thru 5:48. You guys are beautiful together.
Check out another one of their socially conscious songs from that time, "Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)." All credit to Motown writer/producer Norman Whitfield and co-writer Barrett Strong for a whole bunch of these darker, terrific songs for Motown by the Temps and others in the late '60s and early '70s.
Cloud Nine too .
And "Psychedelic Shack" by the Temptations. Not to mention the big hits "War" by Edwin Starr and "Smiling Faces Sometimes" by The Undisputed Truth which were also Whitfield/Strong songs that were first recorded by the Temptations and then passed along to their fellow Motown artists.
BALL OF CONFUSION-TEMPTATIONS 🌍🔥🔥🔥
"Back Stabbers" by the O'Jays is great from same era. "Only The Strong Survive" by Jerry Butler is another tribute to Mama's strength and wisdom.
My husbands grandfather was a preacher in Mississippi and had another family. Raised my husband, his brothers and his two uncles who were granddaddy's kids and were all the same age. It's real! The stories I hear from my husband are amazing. I have a hard time understanding sometimes. Great reaction.
I feel it my grandfather had 56 children with many women from East Africa to the UK this song reminds me off him
My Mother began dating my Father's brother, George but didn't like him. My Mother's girlfriends hooked her up on
a blind date with my Father and she fell in love with him for some reason. She never regretted that decision. George
would marry a woman, get her pregnant with a son, then when they were about 12, go out for a cigar or something
and never return. He didn't bother to get a divorce. Our last name of Pahlka is easy to find in a telephone book, we
are all related in America. George showed up when I was about 12 or 13 with a boy my age and an younger girl.
I have no idea who was their mother was, George came in from Denver and didn't bring her. Do I have other cousins
I don't know about? I don't know the boy and I were sent out to play.
One of my cousins I did know about became hooked up with the singer and guitar genius, Carlos Santana. Somehow
George heard about it and he shows up calling my cousin, Bill, out of the blue. Note: My cousin's birth name was George.
Nobody called him that. By a coincidence, Bill discovered he had a half-brother named Paul who was born on the
exact same day, eight years apart. Every birthday they'd call each other. The first thing Bill did was to call Paul and
warn him their father was in town. George Sr. called Paul saying "I am your Father......." CLICK. Paul heard enough.
George Sr. called my Dad. Both were raised paperhangers/ painters so my Dad gave him some work. He messed
up the jobs so my Dad had to redo it for free. Then George went to live with his older sister. She laid down the rule
he would not drink in her house. She caught him and put him into a mental institution for alcoholics in Napa, Calif.
Before this, my parents took him to dinner at a Mexican restaurant near us. He stared at me and said "My son"
and began drooling uncontrollably so we had to rush him out. I think that was when Dad asked their sister to
keep him. (Excuse the narration, I haven't figured out how to move my sentences around yet,)
By another coincidence, his youngest sister, my Aunt Gladys and her oldest daughter were nurses in Napa.
When George died, they put all his possessions in a shoe box and handed it to me. Inside was George's birth
certificate and baby pictures of his new born son, Paul and his mother. George had kept them all these years.
If he deserted not only them but one wife and son before, then why?
George's cause of death was alcoholic dementia. Some people seem to be born with genes where alcohol
acts as heroin or opioids do to others. George would get paid on Friday and drink all through the weekend
and miss work Monday. His son, Bill, couldn't just take that one drink either. My Dad and my cousin Paul could.
For medical reasons, doing a family history is important.
As a side comment, I have a photo of George, my Aunt Lucille and Aunt Gladys holding a infant who
on the backside was written, baby Wallace. When I was stationed in Ft. Gorden, Ga., near Florida where
my paternal Grandmother moved to after my Grandfather divorced her, I was afraid I'd meet some woman
my age and fall instantly in love with her only to find out we were first cousins. With your mixed up
family tree did you have the same fear? After my Grandmother moved to Florida my father never saw
or heard of her again although my parents did try to go from S.F. to Florida right after they were married.
They worked their way across the U.S. until they hit Mississippi but after one day of picking cotton, my
Mom made my Dad go back to California where it's cool. My Mom and other women in my family could
not handle the heat at all! That too, like alcoholism may be genetic. Hope I didn't bore you too much, my
sister and I are writers. We don't know where we got it from. 😆
Wow. Hope all is well
Yeah. I know so many brothers and sisters whose fathers were out here just having kids by numerous different women!
I managed a housing community for several years. We had a guy that had children with 6 different women living out there and he brought in another one, pregnant. But, they did not actually know about each other until they got called in for recertification and you have to verify child support etc. What got me about it was all these kids out there, not knowing they were related. And, I am pretty sure he had a few other kids with other women that didn't live there. Very sad.
The Temptations and Motown were very much a part of the "soundtrack " of this era with all that was occurring in society....love it and thanks for playing. Nice to see you keep this great music alive.
Thank you
Shawn- you honor me by sharing your experience with your father, and I am moved and grateful. Some of us had fathers that showed us how NOT to live, and in that, they were great teachers.
I’ve been listening to this song for 40 years but I was in tears watching Sean’s reaction. I think a lot of us old people who loved this song forget about what it really meant and what it was saying… We were so busy dancing. I’m 73 now and I love this reaction channel, I love the realness of Shawn and Mel
Now that's music!! Get your attention from the start.
If you haven’t already watched the made for movie TV The Temptations please watch it. It is a real life story about their lives and how they climbed to success at Motown and this song is in there. The movie came out in 1998. The founder of The Temptations Otis Williams a Hans in the movie. It is a touching story and lots of awesome music!!
One of my top 5 movies of all time. I highly recommend you guys watch it.
Oh I love the movie is fantastic
You two are just so beautiful. You’ve become my favorite reaction channel. You love each other so much, and you’re both so authentic. I was feeling Shawn’s pain from the very beginning, you could see it in his face and posture - and you could see that Mel was feeling it too, for her husband. This came out when I was about 11 or 12. We all loved it, we danced to it - but we knew it was sad, and we knew it was true. Now my beloved Goddaughter Queenie, 27 years old, whose father was also a rolling stone and a very troubled man, is raising two girls, neither of whom has much of a relation to their fathers. This is generational and a kind of curse - I felt I helped her break the generational curse of physical abuse, that she suffered from her mom - she’s a wonderful mom to her two daughters - my God-granddaughters Harmony and Zion. But I couldn’t help her break that other one - of the missing dads. It breaks my Heart. Love you both - thank you - you’ve brought me a lot of Joy over these lockdown months - even when it’s been sad - which reminds me - have you reacted to Frankie Beverly and Maze’s JOY AND PAIN? You definitely should if you haven’t. Thank you for all you do.
"Ball of Confusion." By the Temps...it will floor you. So relevant especially today.
This is my favorite Temptations song. I was 18 and living in Madagascar, used to dance to this all the time at the clubs. The lyrics may be sad but the music is GENIUS!!😎😎😎😎
TEMPTATIONS, "PAPA WAS A ROLLING STONE'" ONE OF MOTOWNS MOST ICONIC HITS. LOVE THE HORN'S ,AND VIOLINS. SUCH A HAUNTING VIBE.
Was EXTREMELY moved by your reaction. Songs bring up and stir so many REAL emotions both good and bad. Hats off to you for surviving and moving past the obvious feelings this song conjures up. Big Hugs
I am a 79 yr old white woman. I have always loved this song. This song has been on every playlist I have ever made.💕💕
Temptations were top of their game
I’m feeling for ya, Shawn. 💔The pain from your father’s behavior is different than mine, but momma saying “and when he died, all he left us was alone” so resonated with me. Honestly, it was a relief for me when my father died.
A Loan not alone
@@RONJAE212003 you thick? It’s alone
@Dick Lewis If you can't tell your life partner about personal things such as this without scrutiny, then that may not be the partner for you...
@Dick Lewis "...iT's BeEn PrOvEn..." If you chose wrong, just say that...
Watching your reaction to this song broke my heart. I know that it was one of their biggest hits and a deep song and at the time it was celebrated in a different way. I never experienced what the lyrics was saying however watching your reactions had me experience the song in a completely different way. With that said, the temptations is still one of the greatest groups of all times and I hope that you continue to explore their music.
Also... ALWAYS remember this!
Secrets aren't worth keeping, man. You're NOT alone! You just think you are because everyone is holding secrets! 😎 Let the shit out, and the world will show you that you're not alone... and you'll help other people let shit out, in the process.
And then NO ONE has to feel alone.
You’re not alone. My husband grew up thinking one of his cousins was actually his brother. Life is hard but the music is great and helps with the pain.
Y'know, I've known and heard this song for most of my life since I was a little kid, but I've never seen it hit anyone so hard. Great to see someone react to it with fresh ears!
A 3 minute intro. I love it. Always recognized song by hearing that intro.
That song is so catchy and upbeat, but at the same time speaks on so many heavy and troubling topics.
Soulful and mournful all at once.
My Girl, Ain’t to Proud to Beg, Just My Imagination and many more, these guys were huge stars , very popular Motown sounds from 60’s to 80’s. This is a favorite played and played sending messages like Marvin Gaye 🇨🇦☮️🎵
Temptations & The Four Tops we’re the best, they had sing offs & dance offs on tv / videos. We had great parties with these two groups ! I absolutely love the Temptations 💞🎼☮️🎵💗🥰🤗❣️
This one of the realest songs ever made about dysfunctional family life. We know there are plenty of good fathers-but for those who have experienced this-this song hits home!
Unfortunately, there are quite a few who have had to face a situation like that. Myself included. I can remember how envious I was of other kids who had fathers who did things with them, took time to be there for them, but most of all, teaching them things they needed growing up. The one thing I promised myself was that I would always be there for my kids, showing them just how appreciated they are. We can't do nothing about the past but we can the future.
❤
Its sad very sad 😔
May the good Lord heal your heart Michael.I used to struggle with my father's leaving,but one day I just realized he just didn't have " that tool" in his toolbox! I forgave him.Good for you for being a stand up dad!👏🏿👊
Your reaction from being from a broken home was like my father's. Getting Dad to talk about his past was almost
impossible. To get information about my family's history still is a lot of work. His father left for Chicago to find
work and to play the violin. Coming back, he'd get drunk and start accusing my grandmother of cheating, saying
my uncle and my Dad weren't his. It was all a lie, verified by one of my Dad's cousins. It turns out my grandfather
was the one who cheated. Being Catholic, infidelity was the only way to get a divorce. The only way my grandmother
could survive was to remarry and that man didn't want someone else's kids. My father took it really hard, he was
only ten. My Dad went to one family and ran away. My Uncle George went to a family of cheats and alcoholics.
My two Aunts lived with a good relative but his wife worked the girls like slaves and stole the checks my
grandfather would send for support. The only good thing my grandfather did for my Dad was to teach him a
trade. His brother George, would get with his deadbeat cousins he was raised with and be just like them,
cheating, stealing and whatever, mooching, telling a great sob story or trying to get others to give money
for some get rich quick scheme.
I always wondered why my Dad was so different. He fell in love with my Mom and her Mother gave my
Dad and his two sisters tough love. Because of my Mom's Mother it was my Dad, not his brother George
or his father who went from California to Oklahoma to get his sisters out of a convent after they ran
away living on the streets because they couldn't take their adopted "mother" anymore.
Asking Dad why it was he wasn't like George or his father, he couldn't say. There had to be a
few times he vowed to himself he was going to be a good father as his prime goal in life.
When he lay dying in much pain, I said, "Dad, you raised three good kids."
He smiled at that, maybe it was the last time he smiled before he died, the nurse came in,
telling us it was time to leave. We had to go back to Las Vegas. It was the last time I saw him,
he died two weeks later before we could visit again.
My Mother dated George before she was tricked into dating my Dad. She liked him better. I kind
of shutter to think George could have been my father instead! I think Heaven smiled on me but my
Father had to make that soul searching decision despite not being raised religiously.
I'm glad you did also.😁
MASTERPIECE 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Many people don't realize that this song described the situation of black men back in the 60's and 70's during the welfare state and the black exploitation period. They became more dependent on black women who, themselves became more dependent on government assistance, the black exploitation period inspired black men to be hustlers, (pimps and drug dealers). Too many people today completely ignore this crucial time period which became so pivotal in changing the black community was headed, from growing success to overwhelming dependency which has continued to plague most black Americans today. This song was a reflection of that era.
Back in the days when group's and singers were true craft men and masters of story telling about life ps TRUE MASTERS OF MUSIC 🎵🎶 will LIVE FOR EVER.
And the basis of the Motown Sound was;
Holland-Dozier-Holland was a songwriting and production team made up of Lamont Dozier and brothers Brian and Eddie Holland.[1] The trio wrote, arranged and produced many songs that helped define the Motown sound in the 1960s.[
Say Hey Shawn and Mel--I've never seen you both so upset. I'm a big Temps fan and this is probably their most emotionally powerful song. And it's a spectacular production with about the longest intro ever on a hit record. Really great. Very moving reaction.
You goddamn right
Y'alls reaction made me start crying at the look on your faces..hugs.
This is the greatest song by the Temptations! Everyone around the world knows this song as soon as they here the instruments play!!!
The beginning you see the young actors from The Temptations movie -you must see it. GENIUS!
And one of the best lyrics EVER- And when he died, all he left us was ...Alone!
It really is a great portrayal of their story. I really appreciate that movie. I thought the word on that song was ....and when he died all he left us was "a loan" (!). Not sure!
Yeah I also think it said a loan!
I about died when Mel was repeating the lyrics, ending with & mama just hung her head & said papa was a rolling stone, the expression on your face was priceless.
This was when the Temptations started hitting the issues of the day
Shawn, I think you need to react to "my Girl", another Temptations song, and dedicate it to Mel
Lived in Detroit all my life thru 60s, 70s, so privileged to have this motown soundtrack as a part of who I am.
The strings and brass was awesome
Classic temptations one of the greatest intros ever
song was a smash.. in the day
and holds true today 🔥
*"Ball of Confusion (That's What the World Is Today)"* is another very serious song by The Temptations, with a lot of energy to match the title.
They are so good! Too much talent on one stage. They got voices and the showmanship.
Best song ever written in Motown history. And performed like people will never perform again.
One of their best.
Thanks for making this real- sorry to hear that story.
One if the most iconic/recognizable Bass Lines in music history 🔥💜
YES!! MELVIN FRANKLIN. RIP
And Wah Wah Watson on guitar.
The Temps are awesome. So many great songs.
9:15 Both of them the speechless shaking of the head. 😄 😄 😄
Shawn your mother did a stellar job raising you.
Best intro ever. It could have been a hit on its own.
Just love when youngins finally hear our music.
This is an old school banger!!!
These lyrics that the Temptations would put out on theirs songs were so true of my friends grow up in the projects!!!
The funk Brothers were the best motown musicians Ever!!
It gets better and deeper 😢
These old songs can be very healing, because they are honest. This is how life was and is how life is now. Its universal because the stories are real. When you hear songs like these and they touch a heart string, let yourself feel the emotion and take comfort in knowing the you are not alone. That is why I say they can be healing. Loved all of your reactions today. They just keep getting better and better as each week goes by. :)
So perfectly written-awesome message and story song. Whoever the band was when this was recorded should have won a grammy award for best band of the decade. That opening bass line and the funky beat are unforgettable and iconic.
I've heard this song many times growing up but never REALLY paid attention to the lyrics until watching you two react to it. Shawn, you have my deepest sympathy and mad respect for going through what you did and turning into the MAN you are today! Much love to you both!
UNBELIEVABLY GOOD SONG....permanent playlist for the last 50 years!! LOVE LOVE LOVE
A whole catalogue of hits from these guys you should listen to. THE Temptations were a part of the Motown clan. Some of their hits include "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" "My Girl" "Just My Imagination" "Treat Her Like Lady"
Wonderful group Fabulous songs. ❤🎤🎶🎼💃🕺
Love the Temptations music two.
Every time I see a good daddy, I tell him what a blessing he is to the world. Every good father makes more good humans. Bless you for all you do.
This one of the greatest songs of that time. The Motown sound is my second favorite musical genre. This video brings back lots of memories. Everybody watched Soul Train on Saturday.
I have to say, I've always focused on the cool music and vocal ranges of the guys, that I never REALLY paid a whole lot of attention to the words. Sure I heard them but it was the music I was always focused on. But seeing your faces to the lyrics being sung, brought a tear to my eye. Thanks for keeping it real.
💋 temptation 💋
Beautiful sound
Doesn't matter what Papa did just learn from him and don't become that type of PAPA is the best lesson to learn 🧐
Australia 💕 Christina
Shawn my heart goes out to you, I watched Mel looking at you very worried, Props to you two for posting your honest and heartfelt reaction, it was really beautiful
The Temptations are without a doubt the greatest vocal group in music history.
Thank you for the REAL reaction. Good music pulls at the heartstrings.
A song that I grew up listening to and being able to identify with it. Another masterpiece by an incredible group and musicians.
I just got a chance to check this out and I have to say Shawn thank you for sharing your story. Sometimes great music touches a nerve . I feel for you!!! Love the Temptations.
Your reactions to this were priceless!
Here is what you need to remember, each generation can learn and grow from their parents mistakes. My son's father walked out of his life at 8. My son is now a father himself and is so devoted to his daughter. He will never make his daughter suffer like he did. Your Mama did a great job with you!!!
I💜The Temptations!🥰🤗😢💃🎶
I was a skinny White NAVY boy, stuck in Memphis in 1971. New sights, new foods, new sounds. Played the hell out of "Shaft" at the laundromat jute box. The Black folks must've thought I was crazy. I dug the clothes, the atmosphere, the people. An eye opening experience for a young guy heading out into a much bigger world. The Temptations pushed me along, and I became a lifelong Motown fan. You should see my record collection. The Spinners 'Rubberband Man' is my theme song. At 69, it still is. Nice and LOUD, too!
You know that song that gives you actual chills when you hear it? This song does that for me.
The Temptations were awesome! Everything they sang was a hit!! Unforgetable!!
you making me cry when Mel gets that worried look she feelin you we wanted to cry with her.
The temptations legends hall of famers love their songs like my girl
Motown is one of America's best treasures! The Temps, Four Tops, etc. Classic. A talent that you just do not hear today. And won't.
I’m so sorry you had to go through such trauma. Even through it, you grew into a wonderful loving man, husband and father
Love your honesty. I'm 60. Can't believe you've never heard good music like that before!!??!!
I only saw my supposed father four times. This song showed me other people had it the same. Nice you both had a more solid family structure.
Chi Lites, 5 Stairsteps, Spinners, O'Jays, Commodores, Four Tops, Ray, Goodman & Brown, Stylistics and so many more. How did we lose this great music?
Chi-Lites, Gene Chandler. ❤
My mother told all us kids that people make mistakes that hurt but we had to pay attention and not make the same mistakes dad did make our own way. That’s all you can do is try to be better than those you don’t like. It appears to me you are doing real good at being the best you can.
The Way You Do The Things You Do is another good Temptations song.
great reaction,this song is so real today, with so many single parents,it has such an effect on children,just watching shawns face is proof enough
I watched the Temptations in a lounge show in Las Vegas. It was so awesome when Paul Anka joined them on stage. I felt I was so lucky to hear so much talent on stage. Paul can play so many instruments. I was in awe of all the talent on stage. This was in 1969, and forget this show. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I loved the temptations...smokey Robinson and the miracles...the four tops...but to be honest...didn't pay a lot of attention to what they were saying...we were so young and groovin...now at 70...listening better...ty for your channel 😀 love it ♥️♥️
I’ve been listening to this song for 40 years but I was in tears watching Sean’s reaction. I think a lot of us old people who loved this song forget about what it really meant and what it was saying… We were so busy dancing. I’m 73 now and I love this reaction channel, I love the realness of Shawn and Mel
That is my dad except he's still around but my MOM is gone. Go figure...
I agree 100 percent !! These people are real !!
The funk and groove took me out of the deeper meaning of the lyrics too. The mini series however was insightful on this song.
Amen to that
Same here. In 1972 I heard it but put it in my mind to check it out later. The Temptations were always good but this one
went deeper. In '72' I was in the Marines and had more important duties. Last year, I found their greatest hits in a
thrift store and picked it up. I recalled "My Girl" and others I liked but "Papa Was a Rolling Stone" blew me away
like few others. It was the first time I really listened to the lyrics and marveled over the arrangement.
One of my uncles was like this guy's Papa. Every family has a black sheep, a guy or gal who's charming, intelligent,
and probably from drugs or alcohol or whatever ends up hurting not only themselves but anyone who cares.
Because of that and how well it's done it is a classic which often isn't that well appreciated when it first came out.
Can we at least raise our hands to the stunning singing and those fantastic moves and pink suits!? Love music from my time.