Top 10 Songs by Marvin Gaye

Affectionately known to fans as "Marvin", he was bigger than Elvis to R & B fans. I'd like to think that there were three phases to his dynamic recording career: 1) Pre What's Going On era, pure Motown, 2) What's Going On era, the Marvin whose convictions were not negotiable, 3) Post What's Going On era, the sensual Marvin. His lyrics and voice penetrated your body, and "the incomparable" James Jamerson playing bass on most of Marvin's hits was proof of the musician loyalty. I was privileged to personally know Mr. Jamerson and witnessed his great musicianship.

Here are my Top 10 Marvin Gaye songs:

10) Your Precious Love - United LP: A dynamic duet with Tammi Terrell. These two singers were very convincing that they were each others precious love. Only those close enough to them knew for certain. I wasn't there.

9) I Heard It Through The Grapevine - In The Groove LP: He didn't want to record the song because Gladys Knight and the Pips made it a hit one year earlier. After he recorded and released it, the single quickly became his first number one hit, Motown's biggest selling single to that point and my first 45 record purchase.

8) Too Busy Thinking About My Baby - M. P. G. LP: My first crush was in sixth grade when this song was released. I played it over-and-over thinking about my baby.

7) Ain't That Peculiar - Moods of Marvin Gaye LP: Have you ever heard a song that made you tilt your head sideways because of the peculiar rhythm? This song had clever lyrics and a "sideways" piano arrangement.

6) Distant Lover (Live Version) - Marvin Gaye Live LP: Originally from the "Let's Get It On" album, this live version sends chills through your body. I wish I could meet the ladies screaming in the background. I'll bet they're still mesmerized.

5) After the Dance - I Want You LP: A slow groove by Marvin that I made popular by singing it to my lady on our very first weekend getaway. LOL! The video of my private performance is in a secret location well guarded by lasers and alligators. You have been warned.

4) Inner City Blues - What's Going On LP: Social injustice was the driving force behind this song. The crooner became a mover of the conscious.

3) Let's Get It On - Let's Get It On LP: The conscious, spiritual Marvin now showed his sensual side to the point of no return. His lyrics were a daring representation of how people really felt in their minds. Marvin was one of a handful of artists who assisted couples in the bedroom.

2) What's Going On - What's Going On LP: Arguably the greatest social album recorded. Berry Gordy didn't like the project initially, but he grew fond of the royalties. I can't believe this song was recorded 40 years ago.

1) Mercy, Mercy Me (The Ecology) - What's Going On LP: What can I say, he was a visionary. What part of this song isn't relevant to the world today? Awesome arrangement both lyrically and musically.

Rest in peace Marvin. You are well loved.