Which American pop group had the hit song "My Girl" in 1964?

The Temptations is the answer. The American pop and R&B vocal group recorded “My Girl” for Motown Records, with David Ruffin’s lead vocal, Smokey Robinson’s production, and the Detroit soul sound helping make the 1964 song one of the group’s defining recordings.

The Temptations and the Motown Sound

The Temptations were one of Motown Records’ major vocal groups during the 1960s. Their sound blended polished group harmonies, R&B rhythm, pop accessibility, and the carefully produced Detroit soul style associated with Motown. “My Girl” fit that identity by giving the group a warm, memorable recording that worked across both pop and R&B audiences.

David Ruffin’s Lead Vocal

David Ruffin sang the lead vocal on “My Girl.” His voice gave the recording a distinct center, while the rest of The Temptations supported him with smooth background harmonies. The song helped establish Ruffin as one of the group’s most recognizable lead singers.

Smokey Robinson’s Songwriting Role

“My Girl” was written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White. Robinson also produced the recording, connecting the song directly to Motown’s songwriting and studio system. His role matters because the song’s simple structure, graceful melody, and group arrangement were all part of the polished Motown approach.

Chart Success and Recognition

“My Girl” became The Temptations’ first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. That chart success made the song a major breakthrough for the group beyond the R&B market. Its lasting recognition comes from the combination of Ruffin’s lead vocal, Robinson and White’s songwriting, Motown’s production style, and The Temptations’ harmony-based performance.