with The Temptations

Back to Basics

Back to Basics (1983)

Originally released by Motown

  1. Miss Busy Body (Get Our Body Busy)
  2. Sail Away
  3. Outlaw
  4. Stop the World Right Here (I Wanna Get Off)
  5. The Battle Song (I’m the One)
  6. Hollywood
  7. Isn’t the Night Fantastic
  8. Make Me Believe in Love Again

Fun Fact

Back to Basics lived up to its title by bringing The Temptations back into the orbit of Norman Whitfield, the producer behind many of their boldest late-1960s and early-1970s recordings. At the same time, the album pointed toward the group’s future: it introduced Ron Tyson on lead vocals and included an early appearance by Ali-Ollie Woodson, who would soon become one of the defining Temptations voices of the 1980s.

Discography

Explore the musical legacy of Melvin Franklin through an extensive discography spanning decades of legendary recordings with The Temptations. From groundbreaking Motown classics and chart-topping albums to soulful ballads and unforgettable collaborations, Melvin’s rich bass vocals became an essential part of the group’s signature sound. This collection highlights the albums, singles, and recordings that helped shape the history of soul and R&B music.

For Lovers Only

For Lovers Only (1995)

Milestone

Milestone (1990)

Special

Special (1989)

Together Again

Together Again (1987)

To Be Continued…

To Be Continued… (1986)

Touch Me

Touch Me (1985)

Truly for You

Truly for You (1984)

Back to Basics

Back to Basics (1983)

Surface Thrills (1983)

Reunion

Reunion (1982)

The Temptations

The Temptations (1981)

Give Love at Christmas

Give Love at Christmas (1980)

Power (1980)

Bare Back

Bare Back (1978)

Hear to Tempt You

Hear to Tempt You (1977)

Do The Temptations

Do The Temptations (1976)

Wings of Love

Wings of Love (1976)

House Party

House Party (1976)

View More

Listen to Melvin with

Experience the unmistakable bass voice of Melvin Franklin through his timeless recordings with The Temptations. From smooth ballads to classic soul hits, Melvin’s deep, resonant vocals helped define one of the most iconic sounds in music history. You can stream his work anytime on Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music—making it easy to revisit the songs that shaped generations and continue to inspire today.

Apple Music

Spotify

Amazon Music

Blue in the Spotlight

View a collection of memorable photographs capturing Melvin’s journey with The Temptations and beyond. From iconic stage performances and studio sessions to candid moments behind the scenes, the gallery offers a closer look at the man behind the legendary voice. Explore rare images spanning decades of music history and celebrate the style, charisma, and lasting impact of one of Motown’s most beloved performers.