A young man in his prime set out on his way

To make a name for himself by the music he played

With Melvin, Richard and Al by his side

Their heads full of song, their hearts full of pride

The Distants were known in the area they grew

Singing and dancing, exciting and new

Time passed on, the Distants were part

Otis and Melvin set out for a new start

Adding new members such as Eddie and Paul

David joined later, they gave it their all.

They were known as Temptations with Smokey by their side

They worked really hard, there was no free ride

Cholly would teach them how to glide and to move

Gordy recorded as they sang and they grooved

Managed by Shelly a dear friend indeed

Looked after the Tempts and all that they’d need

Problems arose and David had left

Replaced by Dennis who gave it his best

Paul passed away and Eddie he left

Now the Temptations were put to the test

Finding new members to replace the ones who were gone

Was no easy task , but it didn’t take very long.

With each new member a new sound would arise

Otis held them together through strength and through pride

Melvin passed away a dear friend to all

Otis still carried on never letting it fall

40 years later with Grammys in hand

Supported by his love and supported by fans

Otis Williams is known for his charm and his smile

His words and his voice, he goes that extra mile

So here’s to you Mr. Williams for your strength that you share

Your love for your group the things that make you care

Your legacy will live on in every person you touch

God Bless You Mr. Williams and thank you so much…

This poem is dedicated to a dear friend with love always Otis @ 2002