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‘I Want A Love I Can See’ by The Temptations

About the Song

In the realm of soul music, few groups stand as tall and iconic as The Temptations. With their silky harmonies, infectious rhythms, and deeply emotive lyrics, they have captivated audiences for generations. Among their extensive discography, one particular song stands out as a testament to their enduring artistry: “I Want a Love I Can See.”

Released in 1965, “I Want a Love I Can See” is a soul ballad that captures the essence of longing and desire. The song’s opening notes, a delicate interplay of piano and strings, set the stage for a heartfelt plea for genuine connection. As David Ruffin’s lead vocals soar, he paints a vivid picture of a love that transcends superficiality, a love that is visible in actions and unwavering devotion.

A testament to the power of vulnerability, “I Want a Love I Can See” strips away the pretense and lays bare the singer’s emotional yearning. The lyrics, penned by the songwriting duo of Whitfield and Holland, are achingly honest, revealing a deep-seated desire for a love that is not just felt but seen and experienced in every facet of life.

The song’s arrangement masterfully complements the emotional depth of the lyrics. The instrumentation, characterized by a gentle groove and subtle flourishes, provides a warm and inviting backdrop for Ruffin’s impassioned vocals. The backing vocals, sung by the other Temptations, add layers of harmony and support, further emphasizing the song’s message of heartfelt connection.

“I Want a Love I Can See” is more than just a love song; it’s a universal anthem for anyone who has ever craved a love that is genuine, unwavering, and demonstrably real. It speaks to the human need for connection, for a love that goes beyond words and gestures and manifests itself in tangible actions and unwavering support.

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to resonate with listeners across generations. It has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation to the song while staying true to its core message of emotional authenticity.

“I Want a Love I Can See” is a soul classic that stands the test of time. It is a song that speaks to the heart, reminding us of the power of genuine connection and the importance of seeking a love that is not just felt but seen and experienced in every aspect of our lives.

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Lyrics: I Want A Love I Can See

I want a love I can see. (Ah-Pow-Pow)
That’s the only kind that means a thing to me. (Ah-Pow-Pow)
Don’t want a love you have to tell me about. (Ah-Pow-Pow)
That kind of loving I can sure do without. (I can sure do without)Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeahI want a love I can feel. (Doo-Doo)
That’s the only kind of loving I think it’s real. (Doo-Doo)
Don’t want to be quoted by something I heard now. (Doo-Doo)
‘Cause baby action speaks louder than words. (Ah, louder than words)

Yeah, yeah, yeah

I want a love that’s mine. (I want a love, that’s mine)
In the rain or in sun, sun, sunshine. (I want a love, that’s mine)
A love to keep warm when it’s cold. (I want a love, that’s mine)
The kind of love that will never grow old. (Never grow old)

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, oh-uh-huh

(Don’t you know I want a love)
(Why don’t you know I want a love)
(Why don’t you know I want a love)

Yeah, yeah, yeah

Want a love I can see. (I wanna love I can see)
The kind of love you can give to me. (Give to me)
The kind of kisses to make, make me melt. (Ooo, make me melt)
The kind of love that can really be felt, now. (Really be felt)

Yeah, yeah, baby, baby, baby, baby, baby… I
Yeah, I want her love now.
The kind of love that can be felt.
Uh-huh. Yeah

Yeah, yeah, baby, baby, baby, baby, baby… I
Yeah
No I, I, I, I… I wanna love her.
Uh-huh. Yeah

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Long before the sprawling mansions, multi-platinum records, and roaring audiences, Elvis Presley experienced the harsh reality of financial hardship. Growing up in a modest household in Tupelo, Mississippi, his parents, Vernon and Gladys, frequently fought to make ends meet. Even so, Elvis was nurtured by a foundation that would anchor him throughout his life: strong family bonds, deep-rooted faith, and a constant presence of music.

During his days at Humes High School, Elvis Presley was far from the self-assured icon America would soon embrace. After moving to Memphis for a fresh start, his family settled into the Lauderdale Courts public housing. Financial struggles persisted, and memories from his school days reveal that even paying for a simple lunch was a challenge. A former coach even remembered slipping Elvis a quarter every now and then just to ensure he had something to eat.

It feels almost surreal that Elvis Presley left behind a legacy so immense given how brief his journey was. Born into poverty in a modest Tupelo home, he passed away at just 42. Yet within that span, the quiet Mississippi boy forged a voice, a presence, and an emotional resonance capable of transcending generations. His time was far shorter than anyone could have foreseen, but somehow, he made every moment of it monumental.

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