About the Song
“Treat Her Like A Lady” marked a powerful resurgence for The Temptations, showcasing the fresh energy brought by baritone Ali-Ollie Woodson, who joined the group in 1983. Woodson not only contributed his soulful and versatile vocals but also co-wrote the track, solidifying his place as a creative force within the legendary Motown group.
The song, featured on their 31st studio album, Truly For You, signaled a blend of the classic Temptations sound with contemporary 1980s R&B influences. Woodson’s knack for melodies and multi-instrumental talents helped craft a track that combined a vibrant rhythm, catchy hooks, and a timeless message about respect and appreciation in relationships.
Chart Performance
- #2 on the Billboard R&B Chart
- Peaked at #12 on the UK Singles Chart, cementing its status as one of the group’s most enduring international hits.
- The song became their highest-charting single since “Shakey Ground” (1975) on the R&B charts.
Legacy and Impact
“Treat Her Like A Lady” revived the group’s popularity during the 1980s, appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners. It demonstrated how the Temptations could adapt to evolving musical trends without losing the essence of their harmonies and vocal interplay.
The song’s success also highlighted Woodson’s significant contributions. Not only did he shine vocally, but his songwriting efforts extended into the group’s subsequent projects, such as Touch Me
“Treat Her Like A Lady” remains a staple in their catalog, celebrated for its dynamic sound, meaningful lyrics, and the seamless integration of traditional and modern R&B elements.
Lyrics
Treat her like a lady
Hey, hey, hey
Instrumental
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh, yeah, baby
Whoa-whoa-oh-oh
Mmm
Now I-m the kinda guy who don’t believe
That chivalry is dead, no
‘Cause I believe a woman should be treated
With the utmost respect, mmm-hmm-
Don’t be afraid, don’t turn and walk away
I wanna get to know ya, well
Don’t be ashamed, don’t say that love’s to blame
Just come and look me over
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, woo-hoo-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky (Yeah) off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even (Help her with her coat) well
Treat her like a lady
In this world of liberation
It’s so easy to forget, mmm-
That it’s so nice to have a man around
To lend a helping hand, you can bet, bet you can, baby
When I was young, my mama used to say, boy
A woman’s like a flower, with love on her you shower
Ever since that day, her words never went away
I always will remember to treat my baby tender
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-ooh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
She’s a bad son-of-a-gun
I’m her lovin’ Don Juan
Treat her like a lady
Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-ooh-
Whoa-oh-oh-
Hey-hey-
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-baby
Every day, ever way
Hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-whoa-oh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat, help her out
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
Now boy, you should remember
To be a gentleman
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Hey-ey-)
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like (Well), treat her like
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Ooh-hoo-)
Treat her like a lady (Hoo-hoo-oh, my, my, treat her like a lady)Advertisement
