I Heard It Through The Grapevine – Marvin Gaye

About the Song

Few songs have stood the test of time like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by the legendary Marvin Gaye. Released in 1968, this soulful masterpiece became not only a cornerstone of Motown’s golden era but also a defining moment in Gaye’s illustrious career. With its haunting melody, raw emotion, and powerful vocals, the track continues to captivate listeners, transcending generations and musical boundaries.

Marvin Gaye, often hailed as the “Prince of Motown,” was known for his ability to channel deep emotions into his music, and this song is no exception. From the very first notes, a sense of foreboding creeps in, driven by the iconic bassline and mournful strings. By the time Gaye’s velvety voice enters, the listener is already hooked, drawn into a tale of heartbreak and betrayal. The lyrics tell the story of a man who learns about his lover’s infidelity through the grapevine—a network of whispers and rumors. This theme of distrust and sorrow is universal, which is perhaps why the song resonates as strongly today as it did over five decades ago.
Originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1967, the song had already achieved success before Gaye’s rendition was released. However, Gaye’s version brought a darker, more introspective energy that elevated the track to new heights. His performance struck a delicate balance between vulnerability and strength, conveying both the pain of betrayal and the simmering anger beneath the surface.

At its core, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a testament to Marvin Gaye’s artistry. The song showcases not only his vocal prowess but also his ability to connect deeply with listeners. It became his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the best-selling Motown singles of all time. For anyone exploring the depths of soul music, this track is an essential listen—a timeless reminder of the power of music to articulate our most profound emotions.

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Lyrics: “I Heard It Through The Grapevine”

I bet you’re wonderin’ how I knew
‘Bout your plans to make me blue
With some other guy you knew before
Between the two of us guys
You know I loved you more
It took me by surprise I must say
When I found out yesterday
Don’t you know that I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Oh I heard it through the grapevine
Oh I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey yeah.
I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine baby
I know a man ain’t supposed to cry
But these tears I can’t hold inside
Losin’ you would end my life you see
‘Cause you mean that much to me
You could have told me yourself
That you loved someone else
Instead I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Oh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey yeah
I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine, baby
People say believe half of what you see
Some and none of what you hear
But I can’t help but be confused
If it’s true please tell me dear
Do you plan to let me go
For the other guy you loved before?
Don’t you know I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine, baby yeah
I heard it through the grapevine
I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
I heard it through the grapevine,
Not much longer would you be mine, baby yeah
Honey, honey, yeah
I heard it through the grapevine,
Not much longer would you be mine, baby yeah yeah
I heard it through the grapevine,
Not much longer would you be mine, baby yeah yeah

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