About the song
“Treat Her Like a Lady” by The Temptations is a vibrant and uplifting track that highlights the group’s versatility and continued relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of R&B music. Released in 1984, this song marked a significant comeback for The Temptations, showcasing their ability to adapt to the contemporary sounds of the era while retaining their signature soulful essence. The song was co-written by group member Ali-Ollie Woodson, who also took on the lead vocals, and Otis Williams, one of the founding members.
Included in the album *Truly for You*, “Treat Her Like a Lady” stands out with its energetic beat, catchy melody, and empowering lyrics that advocate for respect and chivalry towards women. Woodson’s powerful and dynamic vocal delivery, combined with the group’s tight harmonies, creates a compelling and engaging listening experience. The song’s production, characterized by its upbeat tempo and polished instrumentation, reflects the mid-1980s R&B style, blending classic soul with contemporary funk and pop elements.
Upon its release, “Treat Her Like a Lady” achieved considerable success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100. This commercial success was a testament to The Temptations’ enduring appeal and their ability to connect with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.
“Treat Her Like a Lady” is celebrated not only for its musicality but also for its positive message. The song’s lyrics emphasize the importance of treating women with dignity and respect, a theme that resonates with audiences and promotes a timeless value. Over the years, it has remained a favorite in The Temptations’ repertoire, often featured in their live performances and compilation albums.
For many listeners, “Treat Her Like a Lady” evokes memories of the 1980s music scene and serves as a reminder of The Temptations’ impressive legacy in the world of soul and R&B. Its enduring popularity and message of respect continue to inspire and entertain, solidifying its place as a beloved classic in the rich catalog of The Temptations.
Video
Lyrics
Treat her like a lady
Hey, hey, hey
Instrumental
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-oh-ooh
Ooh, yeah, baby
Whoa-whoa-oh-oh
Mmm
Now I-m the kinda guy who don’t believe
That chivalry is dead, no
‘Cause I believe a woman should be treated
With the utmost respect, mmm-hmm-
Don’t be afraid, don’t turn and walk away
I wanna get to know ya, well
Don’t be ashamed, don’t say that love’s to blame
Just come and look me over
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, woo-hoo-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky (Yeah) off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even (Help her with her coat) well
Treat her like a lady
In this world of liberation
It’s so easy to forget, mmm-
That it’s so nice to have a man around
To lend a helping hand, you can bet, bet you can, baby
When I was young, my mama used to say, boy
A woman’s like a flower, with love on her you shower
Ever since that day, her words never went away
I always will remember to treat my baby tender
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-ooh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up (Yeah) her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
She’s a bad son-of-a-gun
I’m her lovin’ Don Juan
Treat her like a lady
Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-ooh-
Whoa-oh-oh-
Hey-hey-
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-baby
Every day, ever way
Hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey
You’ll find a heart that you’ve always been lookin’ for
How could anybody ask for much more, whoa-whoa-oh-ooh-
Now I like openin’ doors
Pickin’ up her hanky off the floor
Treat her like a lady
Light her cigarette if she smokes
Even help her with her coat, help her out
Treat her like a lady
Compliment her on her hair
Even help her with her chair
Treat her like a lady
Now boy, you should remember
To be a gentleman
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Hey-ey-)
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like (Well), treat her like
Treat her like a lady (Treat her like a lady)
Treat her like, treat her like (Ooh-hoo-)
Treat her like a lady (Hoo-hoo-oh, my, my, treat her like a lady)