My Guy

On March 13, 1964, Motown released a single that would rewrite the label's history. Mary Wells's "My Guy," written and produced by Smokey Robinson, became the first Motown song to hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The track's success was immediate: it knocked Louis Armstrong's "Hello, Dolly!" from the top spot and held on for two weeks. Wells, then just 20 years old, had already scored several R&B hits, but this one crossed over in a way no Motown record had before.

The song's magic lies in its simplicity. Over a driving beat laid down by the Funk Brothers, Wells delivers a declaration of loyalty to a man who doesn't have movie-star looks. "My Guy" is a love song, but it's also a statement of self-respect. Smokey Robinson's lyrics are direct and conversational, and Wells's voice is warm and assured. The backing track features a prominent bassline, handclaps, and a saxophone solo that adds a touch of playfulness. It's a perfect three minutes of pop-soul craftsmanship.

The Beatles were among the song's biggest fans. They had already covered Wells's "You Really Got a Hold on Me" on their second album, and when they toured the UK in 1964, they invited Wells to open for them. She became the first Motown artist to perform in Britain. "My Guy" also charted in the UK and Australia, marking Motown's first international breakthrough. Decades later, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's list of songs that shaped rock and roll. [edit]