To list the Temptations’ best-known classics would be impossible given the allotted space, but suffice it to say that their over 22 million records sold include many game-changers in soul music such as “My Girl,” “Get Ready,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Just My Imagination” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.”
Few groups could suffer the departure of their lead vocalist at the top of their game and carry on making significant music. A 20-song compilation of Number-One hits only tells part of the story.
The Temptations in 2011 draw a direct line back through the history of music into the 1960s through their soulful harmonies, syncopated dancing and sharp outfits. Otis Williams, the only surviving member of the classic quintet, is still a member of the group today.
The show, starting at 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 11, is a benefit concert for Family of Woodstock and features general-admission festival seating. Tickets are available at the Horseshows in the Sun (HITS), Ulster Performing Arts Center (UPAC) and Bardavon box offices and through TicketMaster for $20 in advance, $25 the day of the show. Children age 12 and under are admitted free.