Beauty Is Only Skin Deep

The Temptations

About Beauty Is Only Skin Deep

"Beauty Is Only Skin Deep" is a 1964 song, that became a 1966 hit single recorded by The Temptations for the Gordy (Motown) label. Written by Norman Whitfield and Edward Holland, Jr., and produced by Whitfield, the song was a number three pop hit and a number one R&B hit in the United States. Norman Whitfield recorded the song's instrumental track in 1964, two years before he got together with Eddie Holland to have lyrics written for the song. Several artists recorded "Beauty Is Only Skin Deep" before the Temptations, including David Ruffin's older brother Jimmy Ruffin, and The Miracles, who were actually the first to record it in 1964, but their version was not released as a single. It was later included on their 1966 Away We a Go-Go album. It was chosen as a single by Billie Jean Brown, head of Motown's quality control department. The group appealed the decision to Motown head Berry Gordy, who preferred it to the group's choice. The record proved much more successful than the group members expected: "Beauty Is Only Skin Deep" was an R&B number-one hit, the Temptations' fifth, and reached number-three on the Billboard Pop Singles Chart. It was also a hit in the United Kingdom, making it to #18 on the UK Singles Chart in late 1966.  


Year:
2010
2:22
105 

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com

So in love, sad as could be
'Cause a pretty face got the best of me
Suddenly you came into my life
And gave it meaning and pure delight
Now, good looks I've learned to do without
'Cause now I know it's love that really counts
I know beauty's only skin deep
Yeah yeah yeah
I know that beauty's only skin deep
Yeah yeah yeah (yes indeed)

Now, you speak your words warm and sincere
And let's me know that your love is near
A pretty face you many not possess
But what I like about you is your tenderness
A pretty face may be some guys taste
But I'll take lovin' in its place
'Cause I know beauty's only skin deep
Yeah yeah yeah
And I know, beauty's only skin deep
Oh baby, oh yeah (oh yeah, oh yeah)
Beauty's only skin deep
Yeah yeah yeah
Beauty's only skin deep
Oh yeah

Now, friends ask what do I see in you
But it goes deeper than the eye can view
You have a pleasing personality
And that's an ever lovin' rare quality
Now, show me a girl, a girl that's fine
And I'll choose the one with true lovin' ev'ry time
'Cause I know that beauty's only skin deep
And I believe that (yeah yeah yeah)
Beauty's only skin deep
Oh yeah
So if you're lookin' for a lover
(Oh, yeah) don't judge a book by its cover
(Oh yeah)  she may be fine on the outside
(Oh yeah) but so untrue on the inside

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The Temptations

The Temptations are an American vocal group known for their success in the 60s and 70s at Motown Records. The group's repertoire has included, during its five-decade career, R&B, doo-wop, funk, disco, soul, and adult contemporary music. Known for their recognizable choreography, distinct harmonies, and flashy onstage suits, the Temptations have been said to be as influential to soul as The Beatles are to pop and rock. more »

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Written by: NORMAN WHITFIELD, EDDIE HOLLAND JR.

Lyrics © SONY ATV MUSIC PUB LLC, SPIRIT MUSIC GROUP

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Origin
"Beauty Is Only Skin Deep" is a hit song that was originally recorded by The Miracles and then became a blockbuster hit for The Temptations.
Release
The song was written and produced by Norman Whitfield and Edward Holland Jr., and was later included on The Temptations' 1966 album, "Greatest Hits".
Rendition
The Temptations' version of the song was released as a single in 1966 and quickly rose to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Grammy Accomplishment
The song was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Rhythm & Blues Group Performance category in 1967.
Philosophical Context
The song is notable for its message, advocating inner beauty over physical attractiveness, an idea that was somewhat revolutionary at the time.
Group Changes
At the time of recording this song, David Ruffin was the vocalist of The Temptations. Shortly after the release of "Beauty is Only Skin Deep," Ruffin was replaced by Dennis Edwards, marking an important change in the group's history.
Song Meaning
The lyrics argue that a woman's physical attractiveness should not be the primary reason for romantic attraction, suggesting that internal qualities are more important.
Cover Versions
Apart from The Miracles and The Temptations, the song has also been covered by other artists including Bobby Vee and The Zombies.
Chart Success
In addition to reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, "Beauty is Only Skin Deep" also topped the Billboard R&B chart.
Later Recognition
The song received fresh recognition in 2004 when it was listed as one of Rolling Stone magazine's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time."

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    Beauty Is Only Skin Deep

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1966

    Billboard #3


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