The Temptations – Just My Imagination (1971)

About the song

Let’s explore the enchanting world of “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)” by The Temptations, a soulful ballad that resonates with listeners of all ages since its release in 1971. Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, two esteemed songwriters associated with Motown Records, “Just My Imagination” was featured on The Temptations’ album *Sky’s the Limit*. This song not only showcased the group’s vocal harmony but also marked a departure from their more uptempo hits to a more introspective and romantic sound.

The track climbed to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of The Temptations’ most successful singles. It also topped the Billboard R&B Singles chart, solidifying its popularity among soul music enthusiasts. Internationally, the song reached high positions on various charts, further cementing its status as a global hit.

“Just My Imagination” is celebrated for its poignant lyrics and the smooth, emotive vocals of lead singer Eddie Kendricks. The song tells a tale of a man daydreaming about a perfect love, only to realize it exists only in his imagination. The sincerity and vulnerability in Kendricks’ delivery resonate deeply, making it a timeless classic that continues to evoke emotions.

Over the years, “Just My Imagination” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and TV shows, testament to its enduring influence and appeal. Its legacy as one of The Temptations’ most iconic songs underscores the group’s ability to blend soulful melodies with heartfelt storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the history of popular music.

Whether you’re revisiting this cherished tune or discovering it anew, “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)” by The Temptations remains a testament to the power of music to capture the essence of human emotions and dreams.

Video

Lyrics

Oooh

Each day through my window I watch her as she passes by
I say to myself, “You’re such a lucky guy”
To have a girl like her is truly a dream come true
Out of all the fellows in the world, she belongs to you

But it was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me
It was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

Ooh (Soon)
Soon we’ll be married and raise a family (Oh yeah)
A cozy little home out in the country
With two children, maybe three
I tell you I (I, I) can visualize it all
This couldn’t be a dream, for too real it all seems

But it was just my imagination, once again
Runnin’ away with me
Tell you, it was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

Ev’ry night on my knees I pray
“Dear Lord, hear my plea
Don’t ever let another take her love from me”
Or I will surely die, hmm
(Her love is) heavenly
When her arms enfold me
I hear a tender rhapsody
But in reality
She doesn’t even know me

(Just my imagination) Once again
Runnin’ away with me, oh
Tell you it was just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

I’ve never met her but I can’t forget her
(Just my imagination) Ooh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Runnin’ away with me, ooh
Just my imagination
Runnin’ away with me

She’s never hard to find (Just my imagination)
She’s always on my mind (Runnin’ away with me)