Ball of Confusion - The Temptations (1970) 7/6/22

As the 1970s began, The Temptations were hot! They were revitalized by their new reputation as an issue-oriented group, and their songs were full of relevant social commentary.

The thing is, many of their songs from 52 years ago retain their relevancy--even today.

"Ball of Confusion (That's What he World is Today)" was released as a single from their album "Greatest Hits II," and critics went wild.

For example: Cashbox Magazine, which was known for its hyperbole, called it a "shocker" and an "electrifying experience."

This time, they were dead on. "Ball of Confusion" was a high voltage lyrical litany of the problems facing America in 1970. And, unfortunately, things haven't changed much.

According to Bob Babbitt of the Funk Brothers (Motown's all-purpose house band), the song was a hit right out of the gate. The band recorded the instrumental track before the lyrics had even been written, and he heard the completed song on Detroit radio FOUR DAYS LATER!

The song reached #2 on Billboard's Soul Chart and #3 on the Hot 100, and would probably chart again today with very few changes.

Note: "Ball of Confusion" was covered by Tina Turner in 1982. It was a Top 5 hit--but only in Norway. This, however, was significant because it led to Tina getting a recording contract (Hard to imagine there was a time when she didn't have one!) and it signaled her great career renaissance of the '1980s!

Note #2: For all my friends in the Chippewa Valley and Twin Cities: The touring Broadway production of "Ain’t Too Proud — The Life and Times of The Temptations" is currently playing at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis. Check their website for times and tickets.

"Ball of Confusion (That's What the World is Today)" b the Temptations: a"Great Song of 1970--and Today!" Temptations:

Tina Turner: