Written and produced by the Miracles members Smokey Robinson and Ronald White, it became the Temptations' first U.S. number 1 single, and is considered their signature song.

In 2017, the song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

'"[6] The signature guitar riff heard during the introduction and under the verses was played by Robert White of the Funk Brothers.

The Temptations also recorded German and Italian-language versions of the song, "Mein Girl" and "Solamente Lei",[7] released in 1965[8] and 1966[9] respectively.

"My Girl" climbed to the top of the U.S. pop charts on March 6, 1965, after its Christmas time 1964 release, making it the Temptations' first number 1 hit.

[15] Over time, "My Girl", with its signature introduction and unrestrained expression of joy, became one of Motown's best-known and most successful singles.

[16] Cash Box described the single as "a pulsating, shuffle-wobble ballad" performed "in very tempting style" and with a "striking arrangement".

During the postseason, Mets fans, during home games at Citi Field, serenaded Lindor during his at bats by singing the first few lines of the song.

[20] Before Game 5 of the 2024 National League Championship Series on October 18, the Temptations performed the song live at Citi Field.