About the song
The Temptations‘ “Cloud Nine,” released in 1968, marks a significant shift in their musical style and the broader Motown sound. This track, produced by Norman Whitfield, is a pioneering example of “psychedelic soul,” blending traditional soul with funk and psychedelic elements.
The song features an energetic groove with a driving bassline, vibrant horns, and innovative use of wah-wah guitar effects. The Temptations’ vocal performance is dynamic, with shared lead vocals and rich harmonies adding to the song’s intensity.
Lyrically, “Cloud Nine” explores themes of escapism and urban life’s harsh realities, reflecting the social issues of the late 1960s. This track resonated deeply with listeners, earning The Temptations their first Grammy Award and cementing their reputation as versatile and influential artists. “Cloud Nine” remains a powerful testament to their ability to evolve and innovate within the soul and funk genres.
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Lyric
The childhood part of my life wasn’t very prettyYou see, I was born and raised in the slums of the cityIt was a one room shack that slept ten other children beside meWe hardly had enough food or room to sleepIt was hard timesNeeded something to ease my troubled mindMy father didn’t know the meaning of the wordHe disrespected Mama and treated us like dirtI left home seeking a job that I never did findDepressed and down-hearted, I took to Cloud NineI’m doing fine, up here on Cloud NineListen, one more timeI’m doing fine, up here on Cloud NineFolks now they tell meThey say, “Give yourself a chance and don’t let life pass you by”But the world around you is a rat race where only the strong surviveIt’s a dog-eat-dog world and that ain’t no lie (ain’t no lie)Listen, it ain’t even safe no more, to walk the streets at nightI’m doing fine on Cloud NineLet me tell you about Cloud NineYou can be what you wanna be(Cloud Nine) You ain’t got no responsibility(Cloud Nine) Every man, every man is free(Cloud Nine) You’re a million miles from reality (Reality)I’m gonna sail up, up, higher, up, upUp, up and awayCloud NineI wanna say I love the life I liveAnd I’m gonna live the life I loveUp here on Cloud NineI’m riding high on Cloud NineYou’re as free as a bird in flight(Cloud Nine) There’s no difference between day and night(Cloud Nine) It’s a world of love and harmony(Cloud Nine) You’re a million miles from reality (Reality)I’m gonna sail up, up, higher, up, upUp, up and awayCloud NineYou can be what you wanna be(Cloud Nine) You ain’t got no responsibility(Cloud Nine) Every man in his mind is free(Cloud Nine) You’re a million miles from reality(Cloud Nine) You can be what you wanna be