NEW YORK (Universal/Motown Records Website) - With the smash single "
Something Special" racing up the urban charts, the Temptations' just-released LEGACY promises to be the legendary act's biggest hit since their heyday in the sixties.
"Our 'Legacy' is stronger than ever," says Otis Williams, the group's founder. "Thanks to a powerful new lineup and a powerful selection of songs, we're on top of the game."
In addition to Williams and long-time members Ron Tyson and Terry Weeks, the Temps include G.C. Cameron, former lead singer of the Spinners, and Joe Herndon. The result is an explosive confluence of old-school soul and right-now R&B. The array of songs are dazzling - from the stepping Chicago-groove of "Love To The Music" to rich harmonies of "You Are Necessary In My Life."
"This is my 40th year as a Temptation," says Otis, "and I've never heard our blend of voices this smooth and exciting."
The Temps hand-picked the industry's hottest producers-Benjamin Wright, Steve "The Scotsman" Harvey, Daniel Weatherspoon - to help create the absolutely current cutting-edge sound. "Legacy's signature song is 'Still Tempting,'" adds Otis. "It expresses the unstoppable beating heart of our group. It's about more than simply getting by. It's about our proud history. Self-respect. And reaching. Man, we never stop reaching. Our goal is to make every new record our best. We want to be tested against the best-and still shine."
If early sales are any indication, the Temptations have passed the test with flying colors! "The vibe in the studio was so positive," says Terry Weeks, "so inspiring and close-knit, I have a hard time telling where my voice stops and G.C. Cameron starts. This new ensemble is the best yet."
"The miracle of the 'Legacy,'" adds Ron Tyson, "is more than longevity. It's even more than the amazing fact that we're still touring the world 40 weeks a year. The miracle is that we're still on the pulse of what's happening musically. In 2004, the Temps are still right on time, still tempting."
"Go back to our beginning," says Otis, "and you'll see that we were dominated by larger-than-life personalities-David Ruffin, Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams. Then larger-than-life producers-Smokey, Holland Dozier Holland, Norman Whitfield. All geniuses.
"But in recent years we've learned that our sum is greater than our parts. The Temptations are bigger than any one singer or producer. That's our Legacy. That's the binding spirit that makes us bolder and pushes us higher.
That's the power behind our new release, the energy that keeps us strong."
The same energy has made 'Legacy' a high point in the remarkable career of American's premier super-group.
