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Temptations Singer Otis Williams

Williams was the founder of The Temptations, whose smooth five-part harmonies and synchronized dance steps made them one of the hottest of Motown's super groups. Their hits included "My Girl," "Just My Imagination," and "Pappa Was a Rolling Stone." We replay Terry's interview with him from 1988.

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Other segments from the episode on November 11, 1994

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, November 11, 1994: Interview with Otis Williams; Commentary on Smokey Robinson; Interview with Martha Reeves; Review of the film "Interview with a Vampire"; Interview with…
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11:34

Martha Reeves on Polishing Her Motown Image

Martha Reeves is the lead singer of Martha and the Vandellas, the Motown group which made it big in the 60's with such hits as "Nowhere to Run," "Heat Wave," and "Dancing in the Street." Her new autobiography, "Dancing in the Street: Confessions of a Motown Diva," is about her career, her conflicts with other Motown singers and managers, and her experiences touring during the height of the Civil Rights movement. (Rebroadcast)

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05:11

A Look Back at the Life and Career of Carmen McRae

We talk with jazz critic Kevin Whitehead about singer Carmen McRae, who died last night at age 74. McRae has been called one of the three greatest female jazz singers, along with Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan.

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Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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27:32

Temptations Singer Otis Williams

The soul icon still sings with the 1960s vocal group. Williams remembers the producers who wrote and recorded the Temptations' hit songs, and how they were able to capture soul and emotion on tape. He has a new memoir, simply called Temptations.

Temptations founding member Otis Williams

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