I Heard It Through The Grapevine-Gladys Knight and the Pips

About the song

“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” stands as a monumental anthem in the annals of soul music, its legacy woven into the fabric of American popular culture since its inception in 1966. Crafted by songwriters Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for Motown Records, the track first found its voice through Gladys Knight & the Pips in September 1967, marking an auspicious beginning for what would become Motown’s best-selling single to date.

The narrative of betrayal and emotional turmoil resonates deeply, conveyed through lyrics that capture the raw essence of human vulnerability. Rooted in E-flat minor, the song’s composition juxtaposes gospel-inspired tones with a soulful narrative structure, underscoring its thematic richness and universal appeal.

Despite its initial success under Gladys Knight & the Pips, it was Marvin Gaye’s rendition that catapulted the song to iconic status. Recorded in early 1967 but released a year later on his album ‘In the Groove,’ Gaye’s version was a slow-burning masterpiece, distinguished by Whitfield’s masterful production and Gaye’s emotive delivery. The decision to release Gaye’s version as a single in October 1968 proved transformative, as it ascended to the top of the Billboard charts, reigning supreme for seven consecutive weeks. This achievement not only cemented Gaye’s status as a soul legend but also solidified the song’s enduring impact on music history.

Over the decades, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” has transcended its Motown origins, becoming a cultural touchstone with multiple artists offering their interpretations. From Creedence Clearwater Revival’s expansive rendition in 1970 to Tiësto’s contemporary homage in 2018, the song’s influence spans generations and genres, resonating with audiences across diverse musical landscapes.

Its recognition in the Grammy Hall of Fame and consistent presence in Rolling Stone’s list of greatest songs underscore its enduring relevance and timeless appeal. Whether through its poignant lyrics, evocative melodies, or the sheer emotional intensity of its delivery, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” continues to captivate listeners, ensuring its place as an indelible classic in the tapestry of popular music.

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Lyrics

Oh, I bet you’re wonderin’ how I knew
Baby, baby, baby, ’bout your plans to make me blue (how)
With some other girl you knew before
Between the two of us girls ya know I love you more
It took me by surprise I must say
When I found out yesterday.

Don’t ya know that I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Oh, don’t ya know that I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about, just about, just about, to lose my mind
Oh yes, I am, Oh yes, I am, Oh yes, I am.

Baby won’t you listen to me.
Boy take a good look at these tears of mine
Baby, baby these tears I can’t hold inside
Losin’ you would end my life you see
Because you mean that much to me
You could’ve told me yourself
That you love some body else.

Instead I heard it through the grapevine
Oh, not much longer you be mine
Oh, I heard it, yes, I heard it (heard it through the grapevine)
Oh, just about, just about, just about, to lose my mind
Oh yes, I am, Oh yes, I am, Oh yes, I am

Go, go
Go, I gotta go
Go, go
You gotta let me go
Go, go, go
I gotta go whoa, whoa, whoa

Say believe half of what you see
Oh, ho, and none of what you hear
Baby, but I just can’t help bein’ confused
If it’s true please baby, won’t ya tell me dear
Oh, do you plan to let me go
For the other girl you loved before?
Don’t ya know that I heard through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Don’t ya know that I heard it, yes I heard it