The Temptations: A Soulful Plea in “I Wish It Would Rain”
The Temptations is synonymous with the zenith of Motown’s golden era. Their harmonious blend of soul, rhythm, and blues, coupled with their impeccable vocal prowess, has secured their place in music history.
Among their vast repertoire of hits, “I Wish It Would Rain” stands as a poignant testament to the group’s ability to convey raw emotion with unparalleled artistry.
Background
Released in 1967, “I Wish It Would Rain” emerged at a time when Motown was evolving from its bright, upbeat sound to a more introspective and soulful direction. The song, penned by the troubled songwriter Rodger Penzabene, reflects the raw pain of heartbreak with a depth and sincerity that is both heartbreaking and cathartic.
David Ruffin’s lead vocal on this track is a tour de force. His voice, rich and soulful, carries the weight of the lyrics with a haunting vulnerability.
The harmonies provided by Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, Otis Williams, and Melvin Franklin create a lush sonic backdrop that complements Ruffin’s lead with exquisite precision.
The song’s title, a simple yet evocative phrase, serves as a metaphor for the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist.
The rain, often associated with melancholy and introspection, becomes a symbol of the cleansing tears that the singer yearns for. It’s a desire for catharsis, a longing for the storm to come and wash away the pain.
Musically, “I Wish It Would Rain” is a departure from the upbeat, dance-oriented sound that had characterized much of The Temptations’ earlier work.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Ooh, ooh (whoa)Sunshine, blue skies, please go awayMy girl has found another, and gone awayWith her went my future, my life is filled with gloomSo day after day, I stay locked up in my roomI know to you, it might sound strangeBut I wish it would rain(Oh, how I wish that it would rain)Oh yeah, yeah, yeah‘Cause so badly, I wanna go outside (such a lovely day)But everyone knows that a man ain’t supposed to cryListen, I got to cry, ’cause crying eases the pain, oh yeahPeople, this hurt I feel inside, words could never explainI just wish it would rain (oh, how I wish that it would rain)Oh, let it rain, rain, rain, rain (oh, how I wish that it would rain)Ooh, baby, let it rain (rain, rain)Oh yeah, let it rainDay in, day out, my tear-stained facePressed against my windowpaneMy eyes search the skies desperately for rain‘Cause rain drops will hide my teardropsAnd no one will ever know that I’m crying (crying) crying (crying)When I go outsideTo the world outside, my tears, I refuse to explainOoh, I wish it would rain (how I wish that it would rain)Ooh, baby, let it rain, let it rain (let it rain)I need rain to disguise the tears in my eyes (rain, rain, rain, rain)Oh, let it rainOh, yeah, yeah, listen, let it rain (let it rain)I’m a man, and I’ve got my pride (let it rain)‘Til it rains, I’m gonna stay inside