| Author | Message | ||
  Kev-Lo (7273747576) 4-Laureate Username: 7273747576 Post Number: 85 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 4.236.114.164 |
Hi this is Kev-Lo first I would like to say welcome back to the forum everybody and I'm glad that this site is up and running again. Now as for this topic yes indeed the Temptations were by far one of the greatest groups of all time and every member of the group could sing.But with David Ruffin's departure and Dennis Edwards replacing him you sometimes wonder how would the Temptations have been if they had Dennis Edwards in the beginning of their career. Like for instance when you hear song's like My Girl and Ain't Too Proud To Beg, you wonder how great would those songs have been if Dennis sung lead on them.Both guys were superb but tell me something do you think these two great soul legends can be compared to each other. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1054 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Hey Kev, I love them both, I could never compare them as they were both great. I was 8 & very upset when David left the group. My anger lasted until the first verse of Cloud Nine, Dennis tore it up. Then there was Runaway Child, Running Wild....MAN!!! He proved to be a most worthy successor. One of his most underrated performances was on the song Mary Ann. Dennis is great!!! | ||
Gary (gary) 3-Pundit Username: gary Post Number: 35 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.73.238.5 |
We've done this topic a few times in the past and it always seems to generate some very long, impassioned posts on behalf of both Ruffin and Edwards. For the record, I think they are both incredible, but, to me anyway, Ruffin stands alone as The Temptations' greatest lead singer ever. | ||
Sudi Kamau (sudi_kamau) 3-Pundit Username: sudi_kamau Post Number: 69 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.117.198.35 |
Because of my age, I always liked Dennis Edwards better. The Norman Whitfield era was geared more to my sensibilities at that time. But it's certainly easy to see why David Ruffin is the quintessence of Temptations lead singers. | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 657 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.21.244.103 |
Hey kev-lo; Sup?  Dennis is ok, but...I would have to say I prefer David Ruffin for the ballads such as "Statue Of A Fool", "Walk Away From Love", and so on. Also while he was in the classic line-up he had style and carisma. So my vote would ultimately go to David. S.S. | ||
Reese (reese) 3-Pundit Username: reese Post Number: 60 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 204.152.13.34 |
I like both of them. But I probably like David more, only because I prefer the material that they did while he was in the group. The funk-oriented material like CLOUD NINE and RUNAWAY CHILD really doesn't appeal to me. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 2-Debutant Username: paladin Post Number: 29 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Heres my 2 cent. First of all let me state clearly that I am biased. I have loved the Temptations since they were Temptations. Although David and Dennis are both immensely talented they voices are different yet similiar. They both possessed the range to sing in tenor, baritone and soprano. I think a better comparison would be to compare Paul & David during their early years. In fact I used to view them as three different groups, The Doo-Wop Tempts, The Love Men Temptations and The Black Radical Tempts;lets face it, the Norman Whitfield Tempts were very different from the Smokey Robinson Temptations. Hell they went from singing loved and lost songs to message songs which fit them perfectly for those troubled times. (read Viet Nam/civil rights movement). I have written before that the singer who comes closest to being a clone of them both is Ali Woodson, who derserves accolades in his own right. Yes the Temptations are icons as they should be and will promote serious debate long after we are all gone. They have etched their place in history and our hearts and it's all good. Their new album Legacy is supposed to drop today and I think thats fitting. They are one of the greastest male vocal groups of all time and I'm just glad that I've been along for the wonderful ride. I'll leave the rest of this thread up to you the most learned members of the SDF. Temptations forever........ Kdubya 6/2004 | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 4-Laureate Username: ~medusa Post Number: 136 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.249.45.3 |
Once a Temptation, always a Temptation...Forever! | ||
DyvaNaye (westside314) 6-Zenith Username: westside314 Post Number: 474 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 209.212.74.198 |
I like David Ruffin, his style is unmatchable. I LOVE Dennis Edwards. His style is matchless. The End. | ||
Cool Ju (cool_ju) 3-Pundit Username: cool_ju Post Number: 32 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.13 |
Like 'em both, lean toward Ruff. Would have liked to hear Ruff on the psychedelic songs. | ||
Jimmy Mack (luke) 5-Doyen Username: luke Post Number: 244 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.198.48.201 |
Sure they both r great. But to me I think David was probably the best male soul singer I have ever heard-the power and depth of his voice are match less to me. Dennis to me is in the great league of Pickett...David was in the stratosphere. | ||
Cool Ju (cool_ju) 3-Pundit Username: cool_ju Post Number: 36 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
Yeah I agree. Dennis is cool like Pickett but David was on another level. | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 5-Doyen Username: ~medusa Post Number: 204 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.79.120.46 |
Well, let's see here....I believe, when something is good, and something else is also good, there's no such thing as competition, they are just 2 (or more) good things...and there's ALWAYS more than just one good thing. We nothing or no one is invincible, when it comes to entertainment. It;'s someone out there born, or unborn that can always fill your shoes. ...but now when you talk about the Imitators and the Originators, that's a whole different story. | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 480 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.49.154.143 |
Exactly Medusa, I think we can each have our own preference for one or the other but I think overall we should be thankful to have had two GREAT singers singing lead within the same group, one of the greatest ever... Wonder B | ||
Jimmy Mack (luke) 5-Doyen Username: luke Post Number: 250 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.198.48.201 |
Whos not thankful?Thats why I said they were both great. Just sharing thoughts. There are grammy awards,etc to recognize talent and Davids talent really moved me, no competition just sharing. We all have our prefernces. Aretha has probably moved more people than Britney so we talk about it. Thats why we are here - to discuss. Someone put the topic out so responding but if a topic isnt my cup of tea I dont repsond. Its not a world war--just having fun dicussing our opinions. | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 485 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.250.181.189 |
Yes Jimmy Mack yes... indeed... we are here to discuss... what a boring world it would be if we all agreed on everything! LOL It's just that I have a hard time deciding who I like more... THAT's ALL! LOL Wonder B If you mess with the 'fro, you gotta go! | ||
cudaus1 (cudaus1) 1-Arriviste Username: cudaus1 Post Number: 7 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.51.243.6 |
Lord knows they were both great Tempts but if I was only able to pick one it would be David. | ||
Lady Mystique (ladymystique) 5-Doyen Username: ladymystique Post Number: 364 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 216.37.253.157 |
I can't compare the two at all. They both have different style of singing. I love them both! | ||
zebop (zebop) 3-Pundit Username: zebop Post Number: 59 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.13 |
David and Dennis did sing together on that Reunion track, "Don't Hold It In", a so-so rewrite of the 1980 Herbie Hancock track. My verdict is that they are totally different singers but all around I prefer David Ruffin. Dennis Edwards was great with those 68-73 Norman Whitfield productions though, not sure if Ruffin could have done them as well. | ||
Common (common) 2-Debutant Username: common Post Number: 16 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 209.2.55.170 |
Hello everyone, I, too, love David & Dennis, as both have different styles but my main man is David! There was something about his singing that makes me smile & cry at the same time. I would definitely say David. | ||
Florence Thompkins (fjt) 2-Debutant Username: fjt Post Number: 12 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 63.101.18.210 |
Tough choice, I love them both. David will always be remembered for the original sound he gave the group and Dennis will always be remembered for the transition sound that pushed the group to another level. I really can't choose between the two. | ||
Tony Russi (tony_russi) 4-Laureate Username: tony_russi Post Number: 146 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.210.26.154 |
I love'em both and think they are both unique,HOWEVER, David Ruffin is one of the GREATEST vocalists of the Classic Soul Era.Davids'voice can be sweet and rough whereas Dennis' vocals are grufferIMHO. | ||
Destruction (destruction) 4-Laureate Username: destruction Post Number: 85 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 199.173.225.21 |
Like most of the posts here, it's really a tough choice. The Tempts were my fave all time vocal group. IMHO, I think David could've done Dennis better than Dennis could've done David. I cite such well known songs as I Wish It Would Rain and Ain't Too Proud to Beg as exhibits A and B. | ||
Soul-Brother (soulbrother) 4-Laureate Username: soulbrother Post Number: 109 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.234.183.114 |
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NY-DELL (dell) 1-Arriviste Username: dell Post Number: 4 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
I think both David and Dennis would have a little trouble with each other's leads. Both of them have a different approach and attitude towards their respective leads, which leads to what we hear on vinyl and CD. The one thing that no one has commented on is the fact that "both" would have trouble doing Ollie "Ali" Woodson leads, whereas he is capable of pulling off "both" of theirs. This is not to say he is the better vocalist, it just seems he caputures the essence and attitude of both these great singers and yet maintains true to his own individual delivery. I've seen him do "My Girl" and seen him do "A Song For You" and was completely blown away, he seemed to actually transform into both David and Dennis even down to body language. He must have studied both singers deeply, he doesn't do a bad job at all, but I don't think most people will mention him in the same breath with King David or Mighty Dennis.....too bad. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 79 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Uh........ NY-Dell see my post above.....:-) ok now soulbrother great picture what was it from ? Kdubya (Message edited by Paladin on June 23, 2004) | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 1-Arriviste Username: dell Post Number: 6 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: You know I don't see how I misssed your post. I agree 100%. More should be said about Mr. Woodson. Have you heard his CD ? | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 81 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
No doubt, his song "Deeper in Love" is a killer...worth the price of the entire CD. There was a thread on this a little while ago, I think it was started by the CrazyDutchman.....but I can't be sure...but his post included some photos of him and Ali when he was over in Amsterdam......I'll have more to say on Ali later....... Kdubya | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 1-Arriviste Username: dell Post Number: 8 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: I haven't seen Ali's group, Emperors of soul yet. But I'm told that has good as he is the rest of the group is just average and not as good as Dennis Edward's group The Temptation Review. Have you seen them yet ?. Yes I also love the CD (Turn out the stars, is my favorite) But I'd like to hear better overall material with more of a group sound than than a solo effort, Ali's really soars when he's in that element, also the overall production could have been better.....but I guess a larger budget can solve that. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 83 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Yeah NY-Dell see the thread Dennis Edwards and Koko Taylor.....that was my Fathers Day treat....sad to say I have never seen Ali's group but I'm sure I will if they are ever in my neck of the woods...........brother just let me say this, I know why Otis is mad with Dennis and company...those fellas dont play....... | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 1-Arriviste Username: dell Post Number: 9 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: He has no one to be angry with but his self. But I don't think he'll ever see it that way. The name Temptations is still alive and that's all that matters (I guess), I sincerly tip my hat to him in that regards, but inconsistency has become the norm with them now and that I can't deal with, just when you get use to a sound there's a new lead singer in the group. This CD "legacy" is not great, even if they did pull out all the "elements" from the past that made them great. Their harmony which yes I admit is good, is not as rounded as it has been, and their attempt to sound more "today" falls a little short. The Temptations are my all time favorite group, and will forever remain so, I guess thats why I'm very critical of their recordings, But sentiment aside and looking at it strictly from a professional and creative point of view, this latest CD would sound 1000% better if Richard Street and/or Dennis or Ollie were part of the project, over GC Cameron and Terry Weeks (whom I must admit has gotten much better). It's time for Otis to "upgrade" and stop simply "sustaining" the group, he owes that to the public for supporting him all these years and to the memory of all those past members who gave us (and him) so many great hits. That would truly legitimize the group's "LEGACY" | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 85 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
I guess thats the problem that they have once greatness has been achieved, its hard to maintain. Since we are on the same page on this particular topic which albums do you consider by the Temptations to be great? Since they have about sixty, I'll take a shot at giving you a few that I thought were very good: 1. Meet The Temptations 2. Temptations Sing Smokey 3. Temptin Temptations 4. Temptations Live 5. Gettin Ready 6. I Wish It Would Rain 7. Cloud Nine 8. Psyceldelic Shack/Puzzle People 9. 1990 10.For Lovers Only 11.Truly for You 12.Sky's The Limit 13. One of my all time favorites was the Aiming at Your heart LP, which the name escapes me now ...see ...CRS is creeping up on a brother...ok..... so I cheated a bit..........did I mention Masterpiece ?????? and for the life of me I just love 50-50 love............ Kdub..... (Message edited by Paladin on June 24, 2004) (Message edited by Paladin on June 25, 2004) | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 11 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Actually I like all of the above....But call me strange but I love 70's 80's early 90's Temptations: TOGETHER ALL TOGETHER ALL DIRECTIONS MASTERPIECE A SONG FOR YOU WINGS OF LOVE DO THE TEMPTATIONS POWER TRULY FOR YOU TOUCH ME TO BE CONTINUED TOGETHER AGAIN SPECIAL These are the ones I play the most, 60's temptations I'm kinda played to death years ago. TO BE CONTINUED is one of my personal favorites along with DO THE TEMPTATIONS and TRULY FOR YOU and TOGETHER AGAIN....oh and I can't forget SPECIAL. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 86 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
I hear you, funny I could have listed some of those too, but I was concentrating on what I considered to be great Temptation albums...and for me Wings of Love and Special didn't make my final cut....(smile)......Power and Song for You belong, but if I could only have a few I'd take the ones I listed. These guys are something else and they deserve credit for maintining the (ouch!)Legacy......You know they were jacking us with Together (Ali) and Together Again (Dennis) but then again I thought they went crazy with "Wings of Love" where Jeffery Bowen does Dennis Edwards....hmmmmm...but I thought the vocals on Mary Ann were super..... David, Dennis & Ali....whew..what a trio........with a dash of Theo (who I commonly refer to as "The Lost Temptation" ;-) and as always I appreciate your observations....... Kdubya | ||
Soul-Brother (soulbrother) 4-Laureate Username: soulbrother Post Number: 114 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 84.135.155.132 |
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Nosey (nosey) 4-Laureate Username: nosey Post Number: 141 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.153.113.238 |
Hi NY-Dell: I've seen both groups and to my untrained ears, I like Dennis Edwards and the Temptation Revue a tad better. Both acts are great but I have to give the edge to The Temptation Revue BUT when Ali/Ollie broke into "Treat Her Like A Lady" the crowd and I lost it. An observation about the Temptation Revue uniforms: I've seen them twice with the same red outfits with the epaulets. Nice outfits but Dennis' was busting out at the seams. Dennis, it's time for some alterations. | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 12 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Nosey: I've seen and heard of Dennis busting out for years.....alterations are LONG overdue. Has anyone heard Richard Street's, or Glen Leonard's group, I know that the new Temptation Bass Joe Hernon came from Glen's Group. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 87 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
I dont know why or how he got so heavey but the brother can still move and he can definitely sang..........at times it appears that he gasps for breath (while performing)and he does a lot of work doing backing vocals to even out the sound of their live performances. As one of the longest living Temptations I hope he takes care of himself. Kdub | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 13 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: Yeah he's not a small guy...always had height...so I guess with age came weight....as far as gasping for air....he's been doing that also for a while...but take into consideration vocally he's al over the place...He could be the BEST background singing lead singer they ever had he plugs alot of holes he's very creative vocally. Woodson has a the same problem at times because he's constantly on the move vocally. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 89 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
You are so right, dusted off Ali's CD (Right Here All Along ) over the weekend and I must tell you the brother is remarkable, been listening to "Get Next To You", the brother is bad......... Kdub | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 14 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: listen to the cd "To Be Continued" Ali is on the money | ||
Destruction (destruction) 4-Laureate Username: destruction Post Number: 118 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 199.173.225.21 |
NY-Dell and KB, I've been a long time big fan of the Tempts but must confess to not really giving a fair listen to their material after Power. After reading some of your posts, I'm gonna spend some time this summer giving a second listen to their post Power recordings. My oldest grand, PrincessD is a big fan of the early Tempts especially Eddie, yet in the van last night she was wailing in her best Dennis imitation to "Ball of Confusion". If you have any recommeded songs I should check out, now would be a good time to drop them. | ||
janebse (janebse) 3-Pundit Username: janebse Post Number: 36 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.63.4.229 |
I'm not a Dennis fan. Way too raspy for me which limited the material he could cover successfully. I think that's why his solo material did not do nearly as well as Eddie's and David's. David could cover a much wider range of material. And, oh, me, oh, my, Eddie, dear sweet Eddie. But Ron Tyson's good too. Listening to LEGACY, you'll find Ron sounding just like Eddie on "Move to the Music." The current Temptations are really good. Personally I love the harmonies and the interchanging leads of the Temptations, something no one does like the Tempts. Ali and Theo have excellent voices, as per "FOR LOVERS ONLY," but they engage in too many vocal acrobatics for some people. In concerts I've attended the past few years, I can see a large percentage of the audience turning the vocal acrobatics off. Different strokes for different folks. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 91 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Dell how did you know ? TBC is one of my favorites, Ali does the song "Someone" and it gives me a fit..(the choir is a nice touch)...uh....speaking of vocal acrobatics (Thanks Marvin of the Dells for starting all of this) Ali Woodson has never gotten his due for the note he holds on Touch Me. Oh yes Janebes, speaking of harmonies the Temptation harmonies are legendary and their work on the Ali lead "Givehersomeattention" are simply miraculous........ Kdubya | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 15 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Good morning everyone: First things first, yes Dennis's voice is a little raspy, and I for one can see how it may limit him somewhat (with the exception of 2 CD's "Song for you" and "Wings of love")....a problem that the Tempts had with Dennis is that at times he would drown out Richard and Ron. When Ollie sang lead his "acrobatics" allowed him to keep clear of the other voaclist and sing his leads with total freedom. Yes I can agree that at times the "acrobatics" are a tad unnecesssary. but I for one enjoyed it. I felt it gave Dennis and Ali their own identity (something that most replacement singers have a problem with e.g. Eban Brown of the Stylistics) but yet maintained a true Temptation "Legacy" as far as lead singers go. Second, yes this latest CD does have tyson sounding more like Eddie than he ever did....I've always felt that Ron sounded better on the new material but was lacking on all of Eddie's old stuff, I never cared for the way he does "Just my imagination" Third, the current tempts are good....I just don't think GC Cameron is the best choice as a lead singer for them. Kdubya: You and I are joined at the hip, TBC among other Ollie Woodson CD"s never seem to get mentioned by those who call themselves "True Temptation Fans", The Tempts didn't die with the "Classic 5", so as a "True Fan" you should look at everything even if you don't care for it....but not to even mention it....go figure...by the way I also love the album " Do the Temptations" | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 94 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Ny-Dell, I hear you, up next... "Truly For You",on which Ron Tyson did very well, he also shined on "What A Difference A day Makes" from the Lovers Only CD. Now you got the juices flowing, we have'nt even given props to Glen Carl Leonard. All the Tempt tenors were good, (after Eddie) Damon was young, sounded uncannily like a young Eddie but didn't have the vocal strength to soar like Glen Leonard whose fasletto could go from romanticly soft to operatic highs in the same song. His efforts on the Tempt song "Go For It" is a fine example. You are dead on point about Ron and Just My Imagination, he cant do that song, period. Damon and Glen would tear it up, another song best shelved by Ron would be "Please Return Your Love To Me" and I know you feeling me......... Kdubya | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 18 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: I can't get started on Glen Leonard...I'd be ran off the Forum......I started A thread last year entitled " All sentiment aside what is your dream Temptation Line-up" or something along those lines. well you'd have to go to the archives to read how that took off and some of the heat it caused (if you ever get around to it look it up I wasn't NY_DELL then...I was just DELL) but anyway I think very highly of Mr. Leonard...maybe I'll give you my e-mail address and we can discuss this further. My feelings on this is subject are very strong...alot of people don't agree with me or just simply refuse to. Due to sentiment | ||
zebop (zebop) 3-Pundit Username: zebop Post Number: 63 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.139 |
I'm a big fan of Glenn Leonard too, "Open Their Eyes", "Go For It", "Take Me Away" need I say more. I absolutely loved those leads. Nah, Glenn Leonard never gets his due... Love Ali too. Was that a great pick up or what? "Memories, "Love Me Right" "Givehersomeattention"--and many, many more. In fact I felt bad when Dennis came back in 1987 for "Together Again." I mean, that was good LP but I sure missed Ali--the whole chemistry of the group had changed... I love hearing Ali howl on that "Get Ready" remake too. (Message edited by zebop on July 01, 2004) | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 19 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
zebop: I couldn't agree more The vocal quality and chemistry changed.....when ali came in....Then Dennis came back, and things were still good but a little lackluster...did you notice on the song "I wonder who she's seeing now" Dennis changed his lead ever so slightly he added a few higher note wails seemed to me he was trying to give us a little piece of Ollie. And again on Glenn The man is goooood. can't wait to see what he sounds like now | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 95 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Dell I seem to remember that because I was not Kdubya, this is my second incarnation. But let me say this right here, right now, Glenn Leonard was da Man. Sentiment is fine, but I speak strictly upon observation of my perceptions of their individual and collective talents. I didn't put the line ups together nor could I take them apart, but since I listen to the music and buy the music, then I think I am entitled to my opinion of the product I have purchased. The Temptations have opened themselves up to all types of rumor and speculation because they have been absolutely psycotic in their never ending search for the perfect 5 man group(read big O ) and their undying need for secrecy when in these days of tabloids and sleaziods...nothing is secret. Back to Glen, Open their Eyes....absolutely beautiful...ZeBop you da man. One other observation, The original five (classic) guys started it( the polish, the swagger) but I'll be damed if Dennis Edwards, Ali Woodson, Damon Harris, Glen Leonard & Richard Street weren't Temptations in the established tradition of vocal shadings and style. Now I had a slight problem with the brother from Chicago(Louis Price), he had the looks, talent and swagger, but his voice was way too much Jerry Butler ...see..."Can We Share in Love"and not enough Gruffin/Edwards if you get my drift........ Dell I think that GC will be fine after another album or two.....plus he appears to get along with Honey of An "O" Kdub | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 20 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: LOL, Honey of an "O", I like that....look I personally feel that Glen may have been the best Tenor they ever had, "that" is putting sentiment aside...I loved Eddie, I just think Glen had better all around chops, better voice quality a higher falsetto, great timing more range, etc...but that comment always gets me into trouble. Louis Price couldn't sing background worth a damn...GC....I don't know I can see it but I can't hear it....maybe it's the material but on legacy he sounds as if he's forcing it....just listen to all his previous stuff without them....he sounds totally different | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 97 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Dam right he does,he has some big "O" shoes to fill. Since their Legacy starts with David, thats the logical place to begin, then Dennis, Ali Woodson, Theo Peoples, Barrington Henderson, all powerful singers who could cowboy up at a moments notice. GC (real or imagined) has to sound like a Temptation,having seen this new group live, I have the utmost respect for GC because he throws down, now what they do in the studio can be different, sure he's reaching a bit but I think they need some producers in the vein of Narada,Don Davis,Gamboa, who have a knack for their unique vocal stylings, maybe even Jam & Lewis who did such a fine collaboration w/Hensly Regisford & Solo. Just as long as they "Stay" away from Timbaland, Jay Z and Piffy Puffy Daddy........and yes my friend we know that Eddie was the creme de la creme of tenors when his voice soared on songs like Paradise,Isn't she pretty, Dream Come True, he was unparalled, Glenn Leonard was the second coming of Eddie and in my opinion took better care of his voice and physical condition which enabled him to cover material that Eddie originated but was no longer able to match note for note. Poor Ron Tyson has his good moments and his bad ones but I appreciate the fact that he is a Temptation and has been working on it for quite a while. Like you I love the Tempts but I am not blinded by "sentiment" either, I am glad that they are still Tempting after all these years. I wouldn't have it any other way. Kdubya | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 21 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: neither would I....I just Had a thought....there are more than a few people still alive who once worked with the Tempts....why won't "O" go back in time...Smokey, Whitfield.....etc...these guys among a few more are still around. What could be wrong with their relationship that business can't cure. Imagine what that woul;d do for some of those guys...Smokey would have a ball....A new CD co-produced by Robinson, Whitfield...could be off the hook | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 98 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Yeah, I had posted on the same subject a while back and yes I even mentioned Smokey & Norman, I was just trying to keep my e mails fresh and let folk know that I aint stuck on stupid. Just wish that the The Temptations and folks around them could recognize what the "fans" want. Smokey has gone gospel, God knows where Norman Whitfield is, and right now I am leaning towards Jam & Lewis, not only are these guys talented, they have a sense of musical history and would probably drop whatever they are doing to work with the Temptations, plus they got juice and this would be quite a challenge for them....... Kdub | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 22 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
ok, But who would block this type of collaboration, the record company, Otis ? who ? cause I'll be damn if it wouldn't benefit all parties. You Know I did like the album "Hear to Tempt you" in 77, produced by Baker, Harris & Young, every member of the group had a lead including Melvin's "I can never stop loving you" only thing I didn't like about the album was Louis Price I would have loved to hear Dennis or Ollie do that material, I even think GC could do much for it....He'd be great on "In a Lifetime" | ||
zebop (zebop) 3-Pundit Username: zebop Post Number: 64 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
Really I loved the production on "Hear To Tempt You", it had a nice Philly sound. I've got to agree with NY-Dell, someone like Dennis was needed, I'm still amazed at the time was uncool the group was without Dennis. Flash up to 1980 and "Power" and everything is great again. It's all about chemistry... Kdubya, thanks for the kind words, "Open Their Eyes" is one of my favorite songs, one of the many great performances from Leonard, I like the way they recorded that with Dennis, Otis, Richard and Melvin singing in the background--but no Glenn, very different. | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 23 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Zebop: Glenn doing, "Can't you see sweet thing" and "Go for it" and least not forget "I'M ON FIRE" are just 3 of my favorite Glenn leads, not to mention what he does in the background. It's just too bad the Ollie Woodson never got to blow with him. Ollie's type of lead with Glenn would have been perfect with Ollie they would have really complimented each other, Ron tyson was to weak to do any push leads with Ollie, and that put everything on Richard Street's shoulders, and he's not that type of vocalist at least not on recordings. Zebop & Kdudya, wish I could meet you we seem to be on the same page and we would talk for hours....by the way are either of you musicians or vocalist.....and are you on the East Coast ? | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 100 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
No I'm afraid my vocal duties were confined to singing under the streetlamps many years ago. But I am a student of the game. The Tempts have been one of my favorite groups since Dream Come True and Paradise. I'm in the Windy City and I've been a music maniac most of my life, I love everyone from Count Basie to The Miracles and then some. I have almost as much fervor about the Dramatics and Manhattans, Spinners and Dells, but thats a post I haven't written yet.........and the band played on......... Kdub you can always e mail me at: kool1130@hotmail.com | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 24 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: Love all those groups too especially the Mircles with Billy Griffin (best damn thing to happen to the Miracles if you ask me) # 1 all time album on my list is Renaissance by the miracles GREAT GREAT ALBUM & MATERIAL, VOCALS ARE EXCELLENT | ||
zebop (zebop) 3-Pundit Username: zebop Post Number: 65 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 149.174.164.24 |
NY-Dell, my address, jasonm_us@yahoo.com. I'm in MD-in a boring part on the Eastern Shore. Like Kdubya, I'm a music maniac too. I also like the Miracles with Billy Griffin, what a great blend of voices. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1320 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Good afternoon everyone! Destruction, as to the post Power Temptation songs, there are many excellent songs to choose from. Where do I begin??? I'll start with the period from 1984. Back To Basics (1984) Featured the beautiful ballad Sail Away, one of their best ballads ever. Truly For You LP (1984) This LP contained strong songs such as: Treat Her Like A Lady & the ballads, My Love Is True & I'll Keep My Light In The Window. Touch Me (1985) Strong songs were the ballads Magic, Touch Me & Don't Break Your Promise To Me (Fea Alfie Silas), and the dance cut, Do You Really Love Your Baby. To Be Continued (1986) Featured the ballads To Be Continued, Someone, More Love, Your Love & the mellow Lady Soul, A Fine Mess & the mellow funk of Message To The World & Love Me Right Together Again (1987) Featured the ballads Do You Wanna Go With Me, Everytime I Close My Eyes, I Wonder Who She's Seeing Now & the club hit, Look What You Started. Special (1989) Featured the ballads Special, One Step At A Time, Soul To Soul, the mellow Loveline & the dance cuts, Friends & All I Want From You After this, the LPs got a bit shaky in my opinion & I stopped buying them. However, there were a few nice moments. The Milestone LP from 1991 gave us the wonderful ballad Hoops Of Fire. Ali gives a great vocal on that song, the arrangement is exquisite. Also, The Emperors Of Soul Box Set gave us the wonderful Error Of Our Ways, where once again, Mr Woodson totally sang his behind off. The guys were in fine form on that song, which was recorded in 1994. I don't know why they decided to re-record that later featuring Ms Hutchinson of The Emotions. In my opinion, she absolutely ruined that song. There was no need for them to change a thing about that song. If you've ever heard both of those versions, I fear that you know what I mean. Of course, there are the fine LPs: 1992's Ear-Resistible, 1995's For Lovers Only (Features their versions of classic standards)& 1998's Phoenix Rising. So, there you have one mans' list of Temptations songs, post the Power LP. I hope that this helps! Smilin' at ya, wishing you..... Peace!! | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 25 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
My god Juicefree, Another post power lover, you know I got the feeling that some people just don't want to admit there was life after David, Paul, Eddie and Dennis...I know the milestone CD well, no one I mean no one ever mentions it "Hoops" was hot....I also had a fondness for "wait a minute" just didn't care for all the chatter in the beginning (but I guess ya gotta give Otis something to do)I'm in the minority here but "Awesome" wasn't all bad....I like it better than "legacy" | ||
Gee (gausden) 2-Debutant Username: gausden Post Number: 14 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.236.160.80 |
Saw Dennis Last Nite he was Great | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 106 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
I'm sure he was, saw him and his group a couple of weeks ago. Speaking of The tempts I was listening to CD5 of their box set this weekend and Hoops of Fire, Error of Our Ways & Giving you The Best That I can are great cuts. I agree they could have saved my home girl for the Legacy album. By the way, Ali-Woodsons vocals on the Jones UK remix are just "Ali-that", 2 bags of chips and a coke......... Kdub | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 2-Debutant Username: dell Post Number: 29 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Kdubya: Just when I thought you were Tempted - Out.....you come back (LOL) | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 107 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
If you think thats something just recieved my brand spanking new #159 of #3500 "David" The unreleased LP & More.......will post what it's about tommorrow....... Kdub | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 5-Doyen Username: ~medusa Post Number: 276 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.252.127.61 |
There's life after everything of course...but the original is always the greatest...When something's that good, there's no letting go...Y'all know it. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 111 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Ok, NY-Dell, Zebop, Kev, Janebse, Nosey, Soulbrother, Medusa, I have had my say on David Ruffin's "David CD"........its located on the other thread about Davids Unreleased CD.....talk at ya'll soon...... Kdubya | ||
Destruction (destruction) 4-Laureate Username: destruction Post Number: 134 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 199.173.224.24 |
Juice, Nice list...and as always, big help....I have a lot of that material, including the Emperors of Soul set. I'll make a tape for the van and will get back at later with a critique from me and my fave music critics, My grands(PrincessD 6 and the Duchess, formerly JQ, 5). Their critique will be extra tough because the Stylistics have replaced the Tempts as their number 1 male vocal group so they won't get a "homer's" call on this....later. | ||
Don (don) 5-Doyen Username: don Post Number: 240 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.75.58.75 |
I loved both their vocal approaches, but Dennis'lead fit into the changing of the times, sorry. | ||
Soul-Brother (soulbrother) 4-Laureate Username: soulbrother Post Number: 120 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.234.173.76 |
The first album with Dennis.. Cloud Nine 1969..has a track that was planned for David without doubt..you can just picture it being a perfect vehicle for him....'Why Did She Have To Go'..but Dennis does a great job..maybe the Whitfield influence pushed Dennis into a more aggressive style..but whenever he sings ballads..he is tops..and conversations I have had with him...he says David was the best...just watch the film he did with David & Eddie...so much love there... Barry | ||
NY-DELL (dell) 3-Pundit Username: dell Post Number: 34 Registered: 6-2004 Posted From: 38.117.188.10 |
Dennis worshipped David.....he refuses to sing My Girl, for that very reason. working with Norman could make anybody vocally aggressive....he loves power in the vocals and the music....if you didn't sing agressive with Norman's material you'd get lost in the music because it would overpower you....something that a lot of people had problems with when it came to Norman's music it could overshadow you. That's why Norman...pushes for passion in his lead singers | ||
Russell Thompkins jr/STY (piano_man) 1-Arriviste Username: piano_man Post Number: 9 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 66.155.229.162 |
They are both great! Dennis a little more powerful,David a unique sound and very very crafty I love them both | ||
Don (don) 5-Doyen Username: don Post Number: 248 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.78.24.41 |
Hi Soul-Brother & NY Dell, I agree with your accesments regarding David and Dennis vocal capabilities. Speaking of Norman Whitfield, I think one just had to have confidence without any distraction to just lay it on the line in the studio. It's funny, funny, what if any of the Motown writers could've all got together as a group to collaborate, with each other. Maybe this is a late thought to the glory days of Motown and all, what do you both think if Norman would've written some Smokey tunes? I'm open to any comment you'd make. Just curious to hear them. | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 4-Laureate Username: paladin Post Number: 115 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Soulbrother, I think that David would have done that song justice, it was made in the old school Tempt vein......from arrangement to upper register harmonies...NY Dell I am also on point with your observations about Dennis and his affection for David Ruffin &.... Eddie Kendricks. Norman Whitfield music for the most part (w/exception to Rose Royce) featured lead singers who like David, could "growl" and probably no one is better than Dennis Edwards, who as I have remarked before can sing as soft and passionate as anyone (Soulmate/Farewell Kiss). Norman also got a lot out of Gladys Knight and The lead singer for Undisputed Truth. But I digress, I think I'll leave work and pull out the one David Ruffin lead Temptation record that I thought they should have remade when Ollie-Ali was around and thats their classic " Cindy" from the I Wish It Would Rain LP. David was never better........"All my hopes and dreams are forgotten now...You're Gone.....All the apples in my barrel are rotten now...You're gone....Standing on a mountain of misery....You're gone.....Loneliness is my only company " When you gonna come home Cindy ? This record was one of the few that I thought should have been released as a single.....on second thought forget anything I ever said about the Tempts remaking this record. No one and I mean absolutely no one could sing this song with the sense of guilt, remorse and anguish like David Ruffin... I hope you guys forgive me for my momentary transgression and lack of judgement......and the band played on....... Kdubya | ||
Destruction (destruction) 4-Laureate Username: destruction Post Number: 139 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 199.173.224.21 |
Kdubya, To continue your momentary transgression, in East Baltimore, if your group didn't do Cindy, you HAD to leave the corner....That song was a lamp post staple. | ||
Don (don) 5-Doyen Username: don Post Number: 249 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.78.24.41 |
Hi Mr. Russell Thompkins, Jr. I'm a very big fan of yours. I think all the lp's you made with the other group is simply amazing. There are so many hit to speak of it seems I can't think straight. Out of all the lp's 'Hurry Up this Way Again'lp touched me so profoundly, that I always crocodile bumps, and I ain't talking about goose bumps either, man. Back in 80 Mr. Thompskins, there was a slight mis-calculation that I posted in past threads on SDF. I thought the song "Mine All Mine" was part of the Hurry Up This Way Again lp. Now I learn it wasn't? I can't think of the name to the follow-up that contained "Mine All Mine". I never heard the rest of the lp nor it's songs nor the lp title, except the "Mine" song. I thought the song was a b-side that wasn't included on the lp. Actually, I thought it was a promo for radio DJ's. The songs I like after the 80 & 81 lp's I like are; "Some Things Never Change", "Give A Little Love for Love", "Your Special To Me". Wherever you and the group are in Chi-Town, I'm gonna try my darnest to check you all out. I haven't gotten a chance to see perform. I've been hearing so much about your performances on The SDF. Please Mr. Thompskins can you keep in touch with us here on SD, and keep us aware of your tour schedule. And if your still on line, please, feel free to give me a response Mister Thompskins. DON CHGO, IL | ||
GO_GET_GONE_GIRL (gogogirl) 4-Laureate Username: gogogirl Post Number: 155 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 69.1.9.65 |
Hey All, Article about Dennis - originally from B'ham. LOL! http://www.mlive.com/entertain ment/grpress/index.ssf?/base/e ntertainment-1/108954109395260 .xml | ||
Kenneth Earl Vernon Sr. (kavee) 1-Arriviste Username: kavee Post Number: 6 Registered: 8-2004 Posted From: 132.61.176.6 |
No one can do the early Tempts song like David Ruffin did them. He was the sound of the Temptations before his departure . Of all the Temps vocalists in David's spot the only one who comes close to the sound David left us is G.C. Cameron. He came from the same era as David where there was not a lot of different styles of singers and all of the groups were emulating the Tempts. Dennis gave us his own style and that bad a_ _ Ollie Ali Woodson brought them back after Dennis left. Now, Dennis has a brother singing with him named David Sea, now if Otis was smart, he would steal that guy from Dennis. He is awesome. | ||
Robb_K (robb_k) 6-Zenith Username: robb_k Post Number: 446 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.235.125.77 |
I like them both as singers. Dennis is a little more hard edged. Both used their voices well. I like the material The Temptations sung better when David was lead singer. That probably prjudices me. However, even during THAT time, I liked Dennis' leads with The Contours. So, it is clear that I liked both. I also liked Paul Williams' and Eddie Kendricks' leads with the group. If they put a gun to my head I'd pick David, but that's just a matter of personal taste. I think he was a little less powerful, but had more range. | ||
Rhythm & Blues Showcase (rb_showcase) 1-Arriviste Username: rb_showcase Post Number: 5 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 4.175.243.82 |
My favorite is the Temptations "Superstar" lineup with Dennis Edwards, Richard Street, Damon Harris, Otis Williams and Melvin Franklin. "My Girl" vs. "A Song For You" My vote is for Dennis Any one care to comment on: Ali-Ollie Woodson vs. David Sea | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 5-Doyen Username: paladin Post Number: 197 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
David Sea has the vocal acrobatics and showmanship that lends itself to the Temptations catologue. However Ali-Woodson would be my choice. Ali was the perfect point counterpoint for the Tempts. He was part David Ruffin and part Dennis Edwards. I have seen both of them in concert and enjoyed them immensely, but since David Sea has never really been a "Temptation" I'll duck out of this one and leave well enough alone. But I will say this standing alone they are both very talented and Mr Sea provides a welcome addition to "Dennis Edwards Temptation Review". The brother can certainly hit those high notes.............. |
