About the song
“I Wish It Would Rain” by The Temptations, released in 1967 on the album “The Temptations in a Mellow Mood”, is a quintessential soul ballad that captures the depth of emotional vulnerability and longing. Written by Rodger Penzabene, Norman Whitfield, and Barrett Strong, the song stands out for its poignant lyrics and the emotional intensity delivered by the legendary Motown group.
The release of “I Wish It Would Rain” came during a prolific period for The Temptations, a time when the group was solidifying its reputation as one of the leading voices in soul and R&B. The song’s lush orchestration, featuring a sweeping arrangement of strings and a soulful horn section, complements the expressive vocal performance of David Ruffin and the rest of the group. The track’s production, guided by Norman Whitfield, showcases the classic Motown sound with its rich, melodic textures and sophisticated arrangement.
“I Wish It Would Rain” delves into themes of heartache and emotional turmoil, expressing the narrator’s wish for rain to reflect his inner sadness and sorrow over a lost love. The lyrics poignantly convey the deep sense of longing and the desire to mask personal pain with the natural element of rain. This powerful metaphor enhances the song’s emotional impact, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of heartache and longing.
The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, remaining a significant part of The Temptations’ legacy. “I Wish It Would Rain” became one of their standout hits, climbing to number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the R&B chart. Its timeless appeal is a testament to the group’s ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt and relatable themes. The song’s introspective lyrics and soulful delivery have made it a classic, celebrated by fans and critics alike for its emotional depth and artistic excellence.
Socially, “I Wish It Would Rain” reflects the broader cultural and emotional landscape of the 1960s. During this era, soul music was becoming increasingly influential, offering a voice to personal and social struggles. The song’s exploration of personal pain and emotional vulnerability mirrored the growing desire for music that addressed more complex and intimate experiences. It also reinforced The Temptations’ role in shaping the soul genre and contributing to the Motown sound, which resonated with diverse audiences and left a lasting impact on the music industry.
In summary, “I Wish It Would Rain” by The Temptations, from the 1967 album “The Temptations in a Mellow Mood”, is a deeply emotional soul ballad that exemplifies the group’s vocal prowess and thematic depth. With its rich orchestration, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful performance, the song remains a classic in the Motown catalog. Its exploration of heartache and longing continues to resonate with listeners, affirming its place as a timeless piece in the history of soul music.
Video
Lyrics
Ooh, ooh (whoa)Sunshine, blue skies, please go awayMy girl has found another, and gone awayWith her went my future, my life is filled with gloomSo day after day, I stay locked up in my roomI know to you, it might sound strangeBut I wish it would rain(Oh, how I wish that it would rain)Oh yeah, yeah, yeah‘Cause so badly, I wanna go outside (such a lovely day)But everyone knows that a man ain’t supposed to cryListen, I got to cry, ’cause crying eases the pain, oh yeahPeople, this hurt I feel inside, words could never explainI just wish it would rain (oh, how I wish that it would rain)Oh, let it rain, rain, rain, rain (oh, how I wish that it would rain)Ooh, baby, let it rain (rain, rain)Oh yeah, let it rainDay in, day out, my tear-stained facePressed against my windowpaneMy eyes search the skies desperately for rain‘Cause rain drops will hide my teardropsAnd no one will ever know that I’m crying (crying) crying (crying)When I go outsideTo the world outside, my tears, I refuse to explainOoh, I wish it would rain (how I wish that it would rain)Ooh, baby, let it rain, let it rain (let it rain)I need rain to disguise the tears in my eyes (rain, rain, rain, rain)Oh, let it rainOh, yeah, yeah, listen, let it rain (let it rain)I’m a man, and I’ve got my pride (let it rain)‘Til it rains, I’m gonna stay inside