The Temptations – Some Enchanted Evening

About the song

“Some Enchanted Evening” by The Temptations is a stunning rendition of the classic ballad originally written by Rodgers and Hammerstein for their 1949 musical South Pacific. This timeless standard, covered by many artists over the years, received a soulful and heartfelt treatment by The Temptations, showcasing their exceptional vocal harmony and emotional depth. The song was included in their 1965 album “The Temptations Sing Smokey”, an album that primarily focused on collaborations with Smokey Robinson but also highlighted their ability to reinterpret well-loved classics with fresh energy.

The Temptations’ version of “Some Enchanted Evening” is a testament to their versatility as artists. Known primarily for their groundbreaking contributions to Motown and hits like “My Girl” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” the group demonstrates here that their talents extend far beyond the boundaries of R&B and soul. With their signature vocal harmonies, led by the smooth, expressive delivery of lead vocalist Eddie Kendricks, they breathe new life into this classic love song.

Lyrically, “Some Enchanted Evening” tells the story of a magical moment of love at first sight, capturing the universal longing for deep connection and the serendipity of romance. The song’s theme resonates across generations, and The Temptations’ version amplifies its emotional weight by blending their distinctive soulful style with the timeless elegance of the original composition. Their interpretation feels intimate and heartfelt, drawing listeners into the enchanting narrative of chance encounters and the possibility of lasting love.

Musically, the arrangement is lush and refined, featuring gentle strings, understated percussion, and a melody that highlights the group’s vocal range and dynamic interplay. The Temptations maintain the essence of the original while infusing it with their unique energy, giving the track a modern sensibility for its time without losing the nostalgic charm that made the song an enduring classic.

Culturally, this rendition reflects a broader trend in the 1960s of blending genres and reinterpreting traditional pop standards through the lens of soul and R&B. By tackling a song from the Great American Songbook, The Temptations not only broadened their repertoire but also demonstrated their respect for musical history, connecting with audiences who may not have been familiar with their Motown roots.

“Some Enchanted Evening” remains a lesser-known gem within The Temptations’ discography, yet it is a shining example of their artistry and versatility. This rendition adds depth to their legacy, showcasing their ability to transcend genres while staying true to the emotional core of the music. It’s a performance that highlights the group’s commitment to excellence and their place as one of the greatest vocal ensembles of all time.

Video

Lyrics

Never let
Never, never let her go
Never let
Never, never let her go

Never let
Never, never let her go
Never let
Never, never let her go (oh)

Some enchanted evening
You may see a stranger
You may see a stranger
Across a crowded room
And somehow you know
You know even then
That somewhere you’ll see her
Again and again

Some enchanted evening (some enchanted evening)
Someone may be laughin’ (ooh)
You may hear her laughin’
Across a crowded room
And night after night (night after night)
As strange as it seems (ooh)
The sound of her laughter
Will sing in your dreams

Tell me who can explain it?
Who can tell you why? (ooh)
Fools give you reasons
Wise men never try, oh

Never let
Never, never let her go
Never let
Never, never let her go

Never let
Never, never let her go
Never let
Never, never let her go (oh)

Some enchanted evening (some enchanted evening)
When you find your true love (ooh)
When you feel her call you
Across a crowded room
Then run to her side (run to her side)
And make her your own (make her your own)
For all through your life
You may dream all alone (ooh)

Once you have found her (once you have found her)
Never let her go (ooh)
Once you have found her
Never let her go
Never let her go (oh)

Never let
Never, never let her go (I’ll never)
Never let (oh)
Never, never let her go (some enchanted evening)

Never let
Never, never let her go (you may seem a stranger)
Never let
Never, never let her go (you can hear her laughing)

Never let
Never, never let her go (callin’ from across the crowded room)
Never let
Never, never let her go (who can explain it?)

Never let
Never, never let her go (who can tell you why)
Never let (who’s gettin’ reasons of)
Never, never let her go (why never try?)

Never let
Never, never let her go (oh, oh, yeah)
Never let
Never, never let her go

Never let (you better run to her side)
Never, never let her go (let her know)
Never let (that you run there, yeah)
Never, never let her go

Never let
Never, never let her go (I’ll never let go)
Never let
Never, never let her go (I don’t wanna dream alone)

Never let
Never, never let her go (you don’t wanna dream alone)
Never let (oh)
Never, never let her go

Never let
Never, never let her go