It was recorded on December 18, 1967 (released on May 13, 1968), and was included on the group's album, Special Occasion.

Smokey, as the song's narrator, portrays a heartbroken man, reminiscing about a once-happy relationship with his girl, with promise of a future, that ended in failure, with his wondering just how it got there: During the song, Smokey, ever the master poet, also explains the meaning of his use of the term "Yester", in his usual fashion: Miracle Marv Tarplin's outstanding guitar work is evident throughout, and is actually the last thing the listener hears as the song draws to a close.

During the song, Miracles Claudette Robinson, cousin Bobby Rogers, Ronnie White, and Pete Moore, project sympathetic background vocals to Smokey's lead, with Claudette's voice clearly audible in the chorus.

Cash Box called the song a "gem," stating that it is a "percolating rhythmic workout" with "tender blues vocals.

"Yester Love" has inspired a cover version by Gerald Wilson and his Orchestra, and has been included in several Miracles "Greatest Hits" anthologies.