About the song

The Temptations, one of the most iconic groups in the history of Motown, have gifted us with a treasure trove of timeless hits. Among these, “Don’t Look Back” stands as a poignant ballad that explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Released in 1965 as part of their album Gettin’ Ready, this song has resonated with audiences for decades, solidifying its place in the pantheon of soul music.

The song begins with a haunting melody, immediately drawing the listener into a world of melancholy and reflection. The lyrics, penned by Eddie Holland, Norman Whitfield, and Barrett Strong, paint a vivid picture of a relationship on the brink of collapse. The narrator, haunted by the memories of a love lost, is pleading with their former partner to move on and not dwell on the past.

“Don’t look back, you can’t recapture / The things that we’ve shared before”, the narrator sings, urging their former love to let go of the pain and find happiness elsewhere. This sentiment is both heartbreaking and hopeful, acknowledging the pain of loss while offering a glimmer of optimism for the future.

The Temptations’ harmonies are nothing short of breathtaking, elevating the song to new heights of emotional intensity. The group’s signature sound, characterized by their smooth vocals and impeccable timing, is on full display here. The combination of the soulful melody, poignant lyrics, and powerful harmonies creates a truly unforgettable listening experience.

“Don’t Look Back” is more than just a love song; it’s a meditation on the human condition. The themes of loss, regret, and the passage of time are universal, making this song relatable to anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of classic soul music.

The Temptations’ “Don’t Look Back” is a beautiful and evocative ballad that showcases the group’s extraordinary talent and songwriting prowess. It is a song that has stood the test of time, and its message of hope and healing continues to resonate with listeners today.

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Lyrics

… If it’s love that you’re running from, there’s no hiding place(You can’t run, you can’t hide, you can’t run, you can’t hide)Love has problems I know but they’re problemsWe’ll just have to face, oh yeah
… If you just put your hand in mineWe’re gonna leave all our troubles behind
… Keep on walking, don’t look back(Don’t look back)And don’t look back(Don’t look back) oh yeahAnd don’t look backBaby (don’t look back)(The past is behind you, let nothing remind you)
… If your first lover broke your heartThere’s something that can be done(You don’t run, you don’t hide, you don’t run, you don’t hide)Don’t end your faith in love because of what he’s done
… So, if you just put your hand in mineWe’re gonna leave all our troubles behind
… Keep on walking, don’t look back(Don’t look back) forget about the past now, don’t look backBaby (don’t look back)Keep on walking and don’t look back(Don’t look back)(The past is behind you, let nothing remind you)
… Do-do-do
… Love can be a beautiful thingThough your first love let you down(You don’t run, you don’t hide, you don’t run, you don’t hide) oh yeah‘Cause I know we can make love bloom, babyThe second time around, oh yeah
… So, if you just put your hand in mineWe’re gonna leave all our troubles behind
… Keep on pushing, don’t look back(Don’t look back) now, ’til I say, we won’t look back, girl(Don’t look back) keep on walking and won’t look back(Don’t look back) forget about the past now, babyAnd don’t look back, baby, baby, baby, baby, baby, baby, baby, don’t look back