The Temptations In A Mellow Mood A Classic Innovation. Why was it groundbreaking?

     Growing up in a Jamaican household with lots of music, Harry Belafonte was a big part of my parent’s musical culture. As a result, I ultimately come to admire and appreciate Belafonte and his musical talent. Later on, I would go on to briefly meet and work with Mr. Belafonte while I was recording the soundtrack for the movie Beat Street (1984). Mr.Belafonte gave me inspiration and drive during this time seeing his work and talent up close. In honoring his legacy, here at JAMBOX, we have decided to introduce his achievements both musically and culturally.

     The Temptations In A Mellow Mood was the sixth studio album by The Temptations for the Motown label released in 1967. This album was one of the most magnificent, intricately arranged, harmonically blended, inspirational albums released by the mighty Temptations. Arranged by H. B. Barnum and big band saxophonist John Costa, produced by Jeffrey Bowen and Frank Wilson who wrote and produced hit records for Brenda Holloway, Marvin Gaye, the Supremes, the Miracles, the Four Tops, the Temptations, Eddie Kendricks, and more. Album liner notes done by ‘Soupy Sales’ 

     This record, a brainchild of Berry Gordy Jr, was made with the intention of crossing the amazing Temptations over to a broader based white dominated pop market which to a large extent it succeeded. Many fans from the Tempts ‘Black’ fan base accused them of ‘selling out’. The Temptations felt the need to expand from their current formula which gave us #1 chart topping hits like ‘My Girl’ ‘You’re My Everything’ and ‘Get ready’. In music history, especially at that time, never has another ‘Soul’ ‘R&B’ group took on such a risky undertaking to release an album in a totally different genre and do it so well!. Today, it is a bit more widely received with the likes of Lady Gaga crossing from her well-received edgy dance pop albums to her romp into classic jazz music with the legendary Tony Bennett. 

     The ‘Mellow Mood’ album certainly struck the right chord with me and helped to shape my musical and harmonic palette for my productions and arrangements. It has been a major influence to this day.

     Stirring lead vocal performances include Paul William’s For Once In My Life and David Ruffin’s ‘What Now My Love’. Give this playlist a whirl. If you’re a fan of the classics ala ‘Frank Sinatra’, Cole Porter, you’ll be a fan!