The Artist: Marvin Gaye
By the late 70s, Marvin Gaye had already reshaped soul music. He brought seduction (Let’s Get It On), social commentary (What’s Going On), and spiritual longing (I Want You) into the same orbit - making him one of Motown’s most visionary artists. But behind the sensual voice was a man in turmoil.
When his marriage to Anna Gordy Gaye (sister of Motown founder Berry Gordy) collapsed, a judge ordered that proceeds from his next record go to her. Most would have phoned it in. Marvin went the other way.
He poured every twist of love, lust, jealousy and regret into Here, My Dear. He recorded obsessively - writing, producing and performing most of the album himself. The result? A funk-soul odyssey of a relationship in flames.
At the time, it confused critics and bombed commercially. But over the years, its emotional intensity and fearless honesty have turned it into a cult masterpiece.
The Record: Here, My Dear (1978)
This is Marvin’s most vulnerable work. The sound is lush, dreamy and groove-heavy - the lyrics cut deep.
The title track opens with theatrical grandeur - setting the scene like a courtroom drama. When Did You Stop Loving Me, When Did I Stop Loving You appears three times in different versions - like he’s trying to make sense of it all.
Is That Enough feels like financial ruin set to saxophone. A Funky Space Reincarnation is weird, interplanetary funk that suggests that he might find love again - somewhere other the earth. Anna’s Song is pure heart ache -melody tangled with memory.
Despite its bitterness, there’s beauty everywhere. Marvin doesn’t pretend to be the victim or the hero.
Just a man, wounded, but still moving.
Play Now:
🔊 Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
Start With:
- When Did You Stop Loving Me, When Did I Stop Loving You - aching, circular, unforgettable.
- Anger - funky, fiery and oddly therapeutic
- Anna’s Song - full of tangled affection