In August 1973, the legendary Marvin Gaye unleashed one of the most sensual records in the history of American music with his album and lead single, “Let’s Get It On.” This thirteenth studio album quickly soared to the top of the charts, becoming the second of Marvin’s three US pop chart-toppers. The single hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 8, 1973, captivating the nation and making waves with its daring subject matter for the time.
The track’s steady climb to number one was marked by its takeover from Stories’ “Brother Louie,” only to be briefly unseated by Helen Reddy’s “Delta Dawn” a week later, before striking back to reclaim the crown for a thrilling second week. This tug-of-war showcased the massive popularity and emotional power the song wielded in the hearts of listeners.
Co-written and produced by Marvin Gaye alongside Ed Townsend, who later revealed that the song’s original lyrical idea was inspired by a struggle to overcome addiction, the final product was candidly explicit in its message. Marvin Gaye himself boldly stated in the album sleeve notes: “I can’t see anything wrong with sex between consenting anybodies.” This raw honesty resonated deeply with fans and critics alike.
The enchanting groove of “Let’s Get It On” was so infectious that it was revisited on the album with a follow-up track, “Keep Gettin’ It On.” Recorded at Motown’s renowned Hitsville West Studios in March 1973, the sessions brought together outstanding musicians including horn legends Plas Johnson, Ernie Watts, and the jazz-fusion greats from The Crusaders, Joe Sample and Wilton Felder, with Gaye himself contributing piano—crafting a lush instrumental backdrop that perfectly complemented his soulful voice.
Reflecting on the making of the album, Ed Townsend shared heartfelt words in the liner notes of the 2001 deluxe edition: “I have been blessed to work with many great vocalists in my career, but none quite like Marvin Gaye. The sessions for ‘Let’s Get It On’ were the first time I was overwhelmed by a singer’s ability to understand and interpret the true meaning of a song.”
The song’s evocative lyrics also reveal Marvin’s passionate plea:
“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…”
These words capture the raw emotion and sincere longing that propelled “Let’s Get It On” into becoming a timeless classic that continues to stir hearts decades after its release.
As listeners, many are left wondering about the story behind this iconic track and the genius of Marvin Gaye that brought such boldness and vulnerability into the mainstream music scene, forever changing the landscape of pop and soul music.
