About the song
The Temptations’ performance of “I Can’t Get Next To You” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* is a memorable moment in the history of both the iconic group and television. Originally released as a single in 1969, “I Can’t Get Next To You” became one of The Temptations’ most successful hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Written by the legendary Motown songwriting team of Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, the song is a powerful example of the “psychedelic soul” sound that The Temptations embraced during this era.
The song’s lyrics express the frustration of a man who feels powerless to get close to the one he loves, despite being able to accomplish almost anything else. This theme of unrequited love is conveyed with intense emotion, and the group’s dynamic performance style only enhances the impact. The Temptations were known for their tight harmonies, synchronized dance moves, and charismatic stage presence, all of which were on full display during their appearance on *The Ed Sullivan Show*.
The Ed Sullivan Show, a popular variety program that aired from 1948 to 1971, was a key platform for musicians to reach a wide audience. For The Temptations, performing “I Can’t Get Next To You” on such a prominent stage helped solidify their status as one of the leading groups of the Motown era. Their performance on the show was electric, with each member contributing to the high energy and soulful delivery that the group was famous for. The lead vocals were shared among the group, showcasing the individual talents of each member, while the backing vocals and choreography created a visually and musically captivating performance.
The Temptations’ appearance on *The Ed Sullivan Show* was more than just a performance; it was a cultural moment that highlighted the group’s influence on popular music and their ability to connect with audiences across different generations. Their rendition of “I Can’t Get Next To You” remains one of the standout performances in the group’s career, demonstrating why they are still celebrated today as one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.
For older audiences who remember the impact of Motown on the music scene, this performance is a reminder of the era’s vibrancy and the remarkable talent that The Temptations brought to every stage they graced. The combination of the song’s emotional depth, the group’s polished showmanship, and the platform provided by *The Ed Sullivan Show* made this moment a significant chapter in both music and television history.
Video
Lyrics
I
Can turn the gray sky blue
I can make it rain, whenever I want it to, oh I
I can build a castle from a single grain of sand
I can make a ship sail, on dry land tell ’em yeah
But my life is incomplete and I’m so blue
‘Cause I can’t get next to you
I can’t get next to you, babe (next to you)
I can’t get next to you (I just can’t get next you)
I can’t get next to you, babe
I can’t get next to you
I
Can fly like a bird in the sky
Hey, and I can buy anything that money can’t buy
Oh, I
I can turn a river into a raging fire
I can live forever if I so desired
Unimportant are all the things I can do
‘Cause I can’t get next to you
I can’t get next to you, babe (no matter what I do)
I can’t get next to you
Uh-ya
Ooo-ooo
Ooo-ooo
Chica boom, chica boom
Chica boom, boom, boom
I can turn back the hands of time, you better believe I can
I can make the seasons change, just by waving my hand
Oh, I
I can change anything from old to new
The things I want to do the most, I’m unable to do
Unhappy am I with all the powers I possess
‘Cause girl you’re the key to my happiness
And I
Can’t get next to you
Girl, you’re blowing my mind ’cause I can’t get (next to you)
Can’t you see these tears I’m crying? I can’t get (next to you)
Girl, it’s you that I need, I gotta get (next to you)
Can’t you see these tears I’m crying? I can’t get (next to you)
I, I, I, I, I can’t get (next to you)
I, I, I, I, I can’t get (next to you)
Girl, you’re blowing my mind