About the song
“Let’s Get It On” stands as one of Marvin Gaye’s most enduring and iconic songs, released on June 15, 1973, under Motown’s Tamla Records. Recorded at Hitsville West in Los Angeles, California, the track not only solidified Gaye’s reputation as a musical genius but also propelled him into the limelight as a symbol of sexual liberation and sensuality.
Co-written by Gaye and producer Ed Townsend, “Let’s Get It On” was originally conceived as a plea for love and intimacy. Inspired by Townsend’s initial religious-themed lyrics, the song underwent transformation into an ode to romantic and physical desire, reflecting Gaye’s own personal journey and emotional depth. The track is characterized by its smooth, soulful vocals layered over funk-infused instrumentation provided by Motown’s famed house band, The Funk Brothers.
Upon its release, “Let’s Get It On” quickly ascended to the top of the charts, reaching number one on both the Billboard Pop Singles and Soul Singles charts. It remained at the pinnacle of the Soul Singles chart for an impressive eight weeks, underscoring its widespread appeal and enduring popularity. Billboard recognized it as the fourth-best song of 1973, cementing its place in music history.
Beyond its chart success, “Let’s Get It On” became a cultural phenomenon, transforming Gaye into a bona fide sex symbol of the era. Its sexually explicit lyrics and intimate vocal delivery resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its status as a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners across generations.
In addition to its musical impact, the song’s release coincided with a significant personal chapter in Gaye’s life. During this period, he formed a romantic relationship with Janis Hunter, daughter of jazz guitarist Slim Gaillard, who would later become his muse and the mother of two of his children. Their love story, intertwined with the song’s narrative, added a layer of personal authenticity that further endeared Gaye to his audience.
“Let’s Get It On” remains a cornerstone of Marvin Gaye’s musical legacy, celebrated for its groundbreaking sound, emotional depth, and cultural significance. Its enduring appeal is evidenced by its inclusion on Rolling Stone magazine’s prestigious list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, where it ranks among the most influential tracks in music history.
As Marvin Gaye’s definitive statement on love and desire, “Let’s Get It On” continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, reaffirming its place as a masterpiece that transcends genres and generations alike.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been really tryin’, baby
Tryin’ to hold back this feeling for so long
And if you feel like I feel, baby
Then, c’mon, oh, c’mon, whoa
Let’s get it on
Ah, baby, let’s get it on
Let’s love, baby
Let’s get it on, sugar
Let’s get it on, woo hoo
We’re all sensitive people
With so much to give
Understand me, sugar (ooh ooh)
Since we’ve got to be here
Let’s live
I love you
There’s nothing wrong with me
Loving you, baby no no
And giving yourself to me can never be wrong
If the love is true, oh baby
Ooh don’t you know how sweet and wonderful life can be ooh (let me love you)
I’m asking you baby to get it on with me ooh ooh (let me love you)
I ain’t gonna worry (let me love you)
I ain’t gonna push, won’t push you baby (let me love you)
So c’mon, c’mon, c’mon, c’mon, c’mon, baby
Stop beatin’ ’round the bush, hey
Let’s get it on (ooh ooh)
Let’s get it on (ooh ooh)
You know what I’m talkin’ ’bout
C’mon, baby, hey, hey
Let your love come out
If you believe in love
Let’s get it on, ooh
Let’s get it on, baby
This minute, oh yeah
Let’s get it on
Please, please get it on
I know and you know what I’ve been dreaming of, don’t you baby? (ah, ah, ah, ah)
My whole body makes that feelin’ of love, I’m happy (my body wants ya, my body wants ya)
I ain’t gonna worry, no I ain’t gonna push (ah)
I won’t push you baby, woo (ah ah)
C’mon, c’mon, c’mon, c’mon, c’mon, darlin’
Stop beatin’ ’round the bush
Oh, gonna get it on (ooh, ooh)
Threatenin’ you, baby (ooh, ooh)
I wanna get it on (ooh, ooh)
You don’t have to worry that it’s wrong (ooh, ooh)
If the spirit moves ya (ooh, ooh)
Let me groove ya good (ooh, ooh)
Let your love come down (ooh, ooh)
Oh, get it on
C’mon, baby (ooh, ooh)
Do you know the meaning? (ooh, ooh)
I’ve been sanctified (ooh, ooh), hey hey
Girl, you give me good feeling (ooh, ooh) (so good)
So good, somethin’ like sanctified (ooh, ooh)
Oh dear I, baby (ooh, ooh)
Nothing wrong with love (ooh, ooh)
If you want to love me just let your self go (ooh, ooh)
Oh baby, let’s get it on (ooh, ooh)