Eddie Kendricks, Keep On Truckin’ | Throwback Vibez

In the 38^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2023), we recollect and reflect on “Keep On Truckin’” by Eddie Kendricks. 

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome. In the 38^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2023), we recollect and reflect on “Keep On Truckin’”, performed by Eddie Kendricks. 

“Keep on truckin’, baby / I got to keep on truckin’ / Got to get to your good lovin’,” soul legend, Eddie Kendricks sings on his beloved, no. 1 hit, “Keep On Truckin’”. In its full, un-edited form, the highlight from the Kendrick’s 1973, self-titled album clocks in at eight minutes long.  Although lengthy, “Keep On Truckin’” yields some of the sweetest music you’ll ever hear from the former The Temptations member. The arrangement (horns, strings, vibraphone, keys and such) and production supporting Kendricks is insane – in the most awesome, creative, and soulful way possible.  It is no surprise that “Keep On Truckin’” has been sampled multiple times.

So, is Eddie Kendricks a truck driver? Not in the traditional sense! “I’ve got a fever rising with desire / It’s my love jones,” he asserts at one point, continuing, “And I feel like I’m on fire.” Woo! Furthermore, the anointed tenor and falsetto king asserts, “I’m the red ball express of lovin’ / Diesel-powered straight to you / I’m truckin’.” Let’s just cut straight to the chase – this man is horny.  Honestly, his desire is relatable.  Most importantly, “Keep On Truckin’” is incredibly fun. Epic vocals, a top-notch backdrop, and those relatable, desire-laden lyrics make this one a winner for all time.  Also, can’t forget about that diss to his former group: “In old Temptation’s rain / I’m duckin’.”

Eddie Kendricks •   Eddie Kendricks • UMG Recordings, Inc. • 1973

Eddie Kendricks, “Keep On Truckin’”: Throwback Vibez No. 38 (2023) [: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; UMG Recordings, Inc.; John Alan Sperry, PIRO via  Pixabay]