The iconic Motown group, The Temptations, surprised New York Mets fans during the NL Championship Series by serenading them at Citi Field. The founder of the group, 82-year-old Otis Williams, made a surprising confession that he roots for the Los Angeles Dodgers when asked about his baseball allegiances.
Sixty years after its release in 1964, The Temptations hit song “My Girl” has gained popularity at the stadium, particularly because Mets star Francisco Lindor adopted it as his walk-up song in late May. Fans enthusiastically continue singing along even after Lindor steps up to the plate.
During an off day from their tour, The Temptations took the opportunity to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “My Girl” before Game 5 of the NL Championship Series between the Mets and the Dodgers. Dressed in blue tuxedos with orange pocket squares, the group showcased their harmonious talents, with Lindor joining in and enjoying the performance.
Lindor’s choice of “My Girl” was influenced by his daughters’ names, Kalina and Amapola. This iconic song, written and produced by Smokey Robinson and Ronnie White, holds a special place in the hearts of both fans and the group members.
Williams reminisced about the early days of recording “My Girl” and the immediate realisation of its potential success. The group has received widespread acclaim and reached milestones, including induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 for their impressive catalogue of hits.
The enthusiasm and engagement from fans, as well as Lindor’s personal connection to the song, caught the attention of Universal Music Enterprises’ executive vice president, Sujata Murthy, leading to The Temptations’ special performance at Citi Field. Williams, the last original member of the group, expressed his dedication to continuing his musical journey with no plans of retiring.
Despite his roots in Detroit, Williams jokingly dismissed his allegiance to the local baseball team, stating his fondness for the Detroit Lions instead. As The Temptations continue to delight fans and make music history, their performance at the NLCS added a memorable touch to the baseball series.
The enduring appeal of “My Girl” and The Temptations’ timeless music serve as a reminder of the lasting impact of Motown on the music industry and cultural landscape.