Another very early example of a pentatonic scale being the key to a great pop song, the guitar lead works in the major pentatonic and is one of the most unforgettable melodies in all of American sound.

David Ruffin's lead vocal is so cleanly delivered but really hits great, passionate heights. The falsetto is the absolute best. The chorus is just singable every single time.

It's one of these songs barely over 2 1/2 minutes long so full of ideas, building steadily through its phases, that you don't notice how short it is. Then it fades out quickly with the song still in its throes. That prompt, frank fade out is such a beauty of many '60s songs. There is modesty in a short fade out. It's not being played for extra sentimental value.

"My Girl" is one of the bedrock songs, a brilliant burst of love and joy. It's an ideal world I want to just teleport to...