What makes The Way You Do the Things You Do by The Temptations notable?

This album features the title track which became one of The Temptations’ early hits, reaching No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success helped establish the group as a prominent act in the Motown roster, influencing both contemporary artists and the evolution of soul music. Released on January 23, 1964, this album was The Temptations' debut under the Motown label, marking their entry into the music scene. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from a doo-wop sound to a more polished soul style, setting the stage for their later successes and signature hits.

How many songs are on The Way You Do the Things You Do?

The Way You Do the Things You Do has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

The Way You Do the Things You Do

The Temptations · 1964

6 min · 2 tracks · funk

A vibrant blend of soul and rhythm, layered with lush harmonies and infectious grooves that defined an era.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Way You Do the Things You Do — This track showcases the group's signature blend of soulful melodies and intricate harmonies, serving as a defining moment in their early career.
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I Feel the Burden (Being Lifted Off My Shoulders) — This song highlights the emotive vocal delivery of the group and presents a poignant narrative about overcoming struggles, contributing depth to the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The record showcases strong vocal arrangements and instrumentation typical of early Motown, establishing The Temptations' sound.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent horn section that drives the rhythm, while the verses are layered with tight vocal harmonies.
The second track employs a slower tempo and shifts to a more introspective lyrical theme, contrasting with the upbeat nature of the first.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked their entry into Motown and established their prominence in the music scene.
Themes: Motown charm· emotional release
Career context: Released on January 23, 1964, this album was The Temptations' debut under the Motown label, marking their entry into the music scene. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from a doo-wop sound to a more polished soul style, setting the stage for their later successes and signature hits.
Stylistic neighbors: The Supremes· Marvin Gaye· Earth, Wind & Fire