About The Song
Get Ready: A Soulful Anthem by The Temptations
“Get Ready” by The Temptations is a timeless classic that transcends generations. Released in 1966, the song became a defining moment in both Motown history and the trajectory of The Temptations themselves. This deep dive explores the song’s background, musical style, lyrical content, cultural impact, and lasting legacy.
Background
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Songwriting and Production: “Get Ready” holds a special place in Motown lore. It was the last song written and produced for The Temptations by the legendary Smokey Robinson before the reins were handed to Norman Whitfield. A friendly competition arose between Robinson and Whitfield, with Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown, proposing a deal: If “Get Ready” reached the Top 10 on the charts, Robinson would retain control. It only reached the Top 30, paving the way for Whitfield’s psychedelic soul influence on future Temptations’ songs.
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Context: 1966 was a pivotal year for social change in the United States. The Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, and the Vietnam War was escalating. These social issues undoubtedly influenced the underlying message of “Get Ready.”
Musical Style
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Genre: “Get Ready” falls under the umbrella of Soul music, a genre deeply rooted in African American experiences. It blends elements of gospel, R&B, and doo-wop, creating a sound that is both soulful and energetic.
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Instrumentation: The song features a tight rhythm section with a driving bassline, crisp drums, and prominent piano chords. Staccato horn blasts punctuate the verses, adding a layer of urgency. The iconic vocals of The Temptations, known for their smooth harmonies and intricate arrangements, take center stage.
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Structure: “Get Ready” follows a call and response format, a common thread in gospel music. David Ruffin delivers the lead vocals, urging the listener to “get ready” for what’s to come. The other members respond in a unified chorus, building anticipation and intensity. The song features a memorable bridge section with a gospel-tinged piano solo, further emphasizing the emotional core of the message.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Get Ready” are open to interpretation, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a personal level. However, some key themes emerge:
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Warning and Preparation: The repeated phrase “Get ready” serves as a central motif. It’s a call to action, urging the listener to be prepared for inevitable changes and challenges. This open-ended message can be applied to personal struggles, social upheavals, or even spiritual awakening.
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Overcoming Obstacles: The lyrics speak of facing hardships and overcoming adversity. Lines like “There’s a storm a-brewin'” and “it’s gonna be a hard rain” depict difficult times on the horizon. However, the chorus offers a glimmer of hope, urging the listener to “get ready” and “weather every storm.” This message of resilience resonates with anyone facing challenges in life.
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Transformation: The song hints at the possibility of personal transformation. Lines like “I woke up this morning with a mind set free” suggest a sense of liberation and a willingness to embrace change. “Get Ready” can be interpreted as an anthem for personal growth and self-discovery.
Cultural Impact
“Get Ready” transcended the boundaries of pop music and became a cultural touchstone.
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Civil Rights Movement: Released during a turbulent period in American history, the song resonated with the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement. Its message of preparation and overcoming adversity resonated with those fighting for social change.
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Endurance and Empowerment: “Get Ready” became an anthem for perseverance and empowerment. It served as a rallying cry for those facing discrimination and injustice. The song continues to inspire resilience and the fight for a better future.
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Popular Culture: The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its countless appearances in movies, television shows, and commercials. Its use in various media reinforces its timeless message and cultural significance.
Conclusion
“Get Ready” by The Temptations is more than just a catchy song. It’s a powerful anthem that speaks to the human experience. The song’s soulful sound, thought-provoking lyrics, and enduring message continue to resonate with listeners across generations. “Get Ready” serves as a reminder of the importance of facing challenges head-on, embracing change, and finding the strength to overcome adversity. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I never met a girl who makes me feel the way that you do. (You’re alright)
Whenever I’m asked who makes my dreams real, I say that you do. (You’re outta sight)
So, fee-fi-fo-fum
Look out baby, ’cause here I come.
And I’m bringing you a love that’s true.
So get ready, so get ready.
I’m gonna try to make you love me too.
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come.
(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way.
(Get ready ’cause here I come)
If you wanna play hide and seek with love, let me remind you (It’s alright)
But the lovin’ you’re gonna miss and the time it takes to find you (It’s outta sight)
So, fiddley-dee, fiddley-dum
Look out baby, ’cause here I come.
And I’m bringing you a love that’s true.
So get ready, so get ready.
I’m gonna try to make you love me too.
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come.
(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way.
(Get ready ’cause here I come)
(Get ready)
[Instrumental]
If all my friends should want you too, I’ll understand it. (Be alright)
I hope I get to you before they do, the way I planned it. (Be outta sight)
So tweedley-dee, tweedley-dum
Look out baby, ’cause here I come.
And I’m bringing you a love that’s true.
So get ready, so get ready.
I’m gonna try to make you love me too.
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come.
(Get ready ’cause here I come) I’m on my way.
(Get ready ’cause here I come)
(Get ready ’cause here I come-a)
(Get ready)