About the song
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” by The Temptations is a groundbreaking and influential track that stands as one of the most remarkable achievements in the history of soul and funk music. Released in 1972, this epic song was penned by the prolific Motown songwriting duo Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong. It was included in The Temptations’ album *All Directions*, which showcased the group’s willingness to explore new musical landscapes.
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” is known for its distinctive and lengthy instrumental intro, which sets the tone for the song’s haunting and introspective narrative. The song tells the story of a son grappling with the legacy of his absent and morally ambiguous father, a man whose life was marked by infidelity and instability. Dennis Edwards’ powerful and emotive lead vocals, along with the group’s harmonies, bring a deep sense of drama and emotion to the story.
The track’s innovative production, featuring a prominent bassline, electric sitar, and complex orchestration, was a departure from The Temptations’ earlier work. This bold musical direction paid off, as “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” became a massive hit. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned the group three Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals and Best R&B Instrumental Performance.
“Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” stands out not only for its length and intricate production but also for its social commentary. The song’s exploration of themes like family, legacy, and the impact of a father’s actions resonated with many listeners, making it a timeless piece that continues to be relevant.
Over the years, “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” has been covered and sampled by numerous artists, cementing its status as a classic. For many, the song evokes a sense of reflection and contemplation, inviting listeners to ponder the complexities of family relationships and personal identity. Its enduring appeal lies in its masterful blend of storytelling, musical innovation, and emotional depth, making it a standout in The Temptations’ illustrious catalog and a cornerstone of 1970s soul and funk music.
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Lyrics
It was the third of September
That day I’ll always remember, yes I will
‘Cause that was the day that my daddy died
I never got a chance to see him
Never heard nothin’ but bad things about him
Momma I’m depending on you to tell me the truth
Momma just hung her head and said, son
Papa was a rolling stone
Wherever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone
Papa was a rolling stone (my son, yeah)
Wherever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone
Hey Momma!
Is it true what they say that Papa never worked a day in his life
And Momma, some bad talk goin’ round town sayin’ that
Papa had three outside children
And another wife, and that ain’t right
Heard some talk Papa doing some storefront preachin’
Talking about saving souls and all the time leechin’
Dealing in dirt, and stealing in the name of the Lord
Momma just hung her head and said
Papa was a rolling stone (my son)
Wherever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone
Hey Papa was a rolling stone (dad gumma it)
Where ever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone
Hey Momma
I heard Papa called himself a jack-of-all-trades
Tell me is that what sent Papa to an early grave
Folks say Papa would beg, borrow, steal
To pay his bills
Hey Momma
Folks say Papa never was much on thinking
Spent most of his time chasing women and drinking
Momma I’m depending on you to tell me the truth
Momma looked up with a tear in her eye and said, son
Papa was a rolling stone (well, well, well, well)
Wherever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone (lone, lone, lone, alone)
Papa was a rolling stone
Wherever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone
Wherever he laid his hat was his home
And when he died, all he left us was alone
My daddy was
Papa was a rolling stone (yes he was, yeah)
Wherever he laid his hat was his home)