The Undisputed Truth, Smiling Faces Sometimes | Throwback Vibez

On the 10^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2021), we recollect and reflect on “Smiling Faces Sometimes” by The Undisputed Truth. 

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he vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace Throwback Vibez are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome – we don’t discriminate ‘round here! On the 10^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2021), we recollect and reflect on “Smiling Faces Sometimes”, performed by The Undisputed Truth.

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Theme & Lyrics

“Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes / They don’t tell the truth,” The Undisputed Truth asserts on the chorus of the classic, “Smiling Faces Sometimes.” The memorable, timeless chorus of this minor-key gem continues, “Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes / Tell lies and I got proof.”  Woo! Penned by the dynamic Motown duo Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield, “Smiling Faces Sometimes” is a cover believe it or not.

What’s interesting about the fact that “Smiling Faces Sometimes” wasn’t originally recorded by The Undisputed Truth is WHO originally recorded it – The Temptations ! “Smiling Faces Sometimes” gave The Undisputed Truth the biggest, most recognizable hit of their career, peaking at no. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.  Take one listen and you’ll see the hype and can’t resist smiling at the truth the collective serves up!

“The truth is in the eyes
Cause the eyes don’t lie, amen
Remember a smile is just
A frown turned upside down
My friend let me tell you.”

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Final Thoughts

Lush production, intact with fat bass line, and memorable songwriting makes “Smiling Faces Sometimes” truly sickening. This 1971 gem from The Undisputed Truth is an undisputed bop to this day! Who doesn’t heart a darker, minor-key 70s soul joint?

Also appears on :
13 More Songs Sure to Make You Smile

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The Undisputed Truth • The Undisputed Truth • Motown • 1971
The Undisputed Truth “Smiling Faces Sometimes”: Throwback Vibez No. 10 [: Brent Faulkner, cotton bro,  Motown, The Musical Hype]

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