About the song
The Four Tops, a seminal group in the landscape of Motown and soul music, delivered a memorable performance of “When She Was My Girl” on the television show *Fridays* in 1981. This live rendition, captured on the popular late-night show, is a powerful testament to the enduring appeal and vocal prowess of this iconic ensemble.
Formed in Detroit in 1954, The Four Tops became synonymous with the Motown sound, achieving widespread acclaim with their blend of soul, pop, and R&B. Their smooth harmonies and dynamic stage presence made them a staple of the Motown era, and they continued to captivate audiences through the decades. “When She Was My Girl,” released in 1981, was a standout track from their album *Tonight!* This album marked a significant period for the group, featuring a mix of contemporary sounds while retaining the classic Motown essence that defined their earlier work.
The song itself is a poignant reflection on lost love, combining emotional depth with the Four Tops’ signature vocal harmonies. Although it did not achieve the same chart-topping success as some of their earlier hits, such as “Reach Out I’ll Be There” or “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),” “When She Was My Girl” still resonated with fans and showcased the group’s ability to adapt to the evolving musical landscape.
The live performance on *Fridays* captured the essence of the Four Tops’ stage presence, blending their soulful delivery with an engaging live atmosphere. This appearance highlighted the group’s ability to connect with audiences across different eras, bridging the gap between their Motown roots and the evolving musical trends of the early 1980s.
For those familiar with The Four Tops’ illustrious career, this performance of “When She Was My Girl” offers a nostalgic look at a beloved group adapting to new sounds while remaining true to their musical heritage. It stands as a testament to their versatility and enduring charm, reminding us why The Four Tops continue to be celebrated as legends in the world of soul and pop music.
Video
Lyrics
She used to be
Everything to me
When she was my girl
When she was my girlI held her near
Told her how much I cared
When she was my girl
When she was my girlWhen she was my girl
There was laughter and loving in my world
Everyday
When she was my girl
Oh what joy she would bring
Now I’ve lost everything
She’s gone, gone, gone, gone, goneI spend the night
Dreaming how she used to be
When she was my girl
When she was my girlWhen she was my girl
There was laughter and loving in my world
Yes it was
Cause she was my girl
Oh what joy she would bring
Now I’ve lost everything
She’s gone, the big red girl has goneShe used to be
Everything to me
When she was my girl
When she was my girlShe, she, my girl
She’s so foxy cant you see
And this girl belongs to me
She’s my girl
When we walk down the street
I would tell everyone we meet
This is my girl