#1 for weeks of May 16 and 23rd, 1964.
One semi-factual tidbit about the British Invasion is that it caused many of the music styles of the early 1960's to go out of fashion with the pop market. That is partially true in the sense that many of the teeny boppers, soft-pop crooners, and surf bands all saw a massive loss in popularity. However, some genres thrived through these more Anglo-American inspired times with Motown records being a prime example. The first R&B pop hit of 1964 ended up being the last hit by an already established Motown star, Mary Wells.
Before Diana Ross came along, Mary was Motown's most commercially successful female singer. Some of her early hits from the previous couple of years include "You Beat Me To The Punch", "The One Who Really Loves You" and "Two Lovers". All of these songs showcase her rather unique and soothing singing voice. In 1964, Smokey Robinson wrote "My Guy" for her to sing and when the song was released, it became her first and only #1 hit.
It might initially seem hypocritical of me to praise a song that was not written by the artist who sings it and features session musicians on the recording. Yet, we also have a song written by a talented songwriter and singer in his own right, and the band is Motown's finest group of musicians collectively known as The Funk Brothers. Compare this to modern pop where the outside songwriter rarely has a singing career of their own and the music is usually programmed rather than performed. Motown in comparison is pop craftsmanship done right.
"My Guy" lyrically deals with the singer proclaiming that her guy is perfect and that nobody else in the world can take that away from her. Nothing lyrically groundbreaking that's for sure, but Mary Wells' vocal performance is where the action is. I especially like at the end when her voice takes on more of a sultry whisper while the backing vocalists, The Andantes, continue to chant the title of the song behind her voice.
Musically of course, the song is classic Motown. After all, this period from 1964 until about 1968 was when some of the label's most timeless tunes were recorded. Just the rhythm section alone, consisting of James Jamerson on bass and Benny Benjamin on drums, propels the entire tune. On top of this strong rhythm is the guitar, piano, and horns. All in all, it makes the song musically very entertaining to listen to.
The main reason Mary Wells is not mentioned as often today is because she left Motown not long after this song became a hit. Her "Place" was essentially filled by the then up and coming Supremes. I personally think Mary Wells deserves more posthumous recognition as her voice was quite amazing.
Final Verdict - A bit of an underrated hit which, if you love Motown, you're sure to enjoy. I'd certainly say it was a deserved #1.
Coming Up Next - "Love Me Do" by The Beatles.
Until Next Time - I'm your guy, Dr. Rock -
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