In the sultry heat of 1973, the world was forever transformed by Marvin Gaye and his thirteenth studio album Let’s Get It On. Released in August 1973, the album spawned one of the most sensual and unforgettable records ever to dominate the American charts. On September 8, 1973, Let’s Get It On surged to the very top of the Billboard Hot 100, claiming the No.1 spot and becoming the second of Marvin Gaye’s three US pop chart-toppers.
This song was not just music; it was a sensation that ignited passion and stirred emotions. The melody and lyrics brought listeners to the edge, with themes centered boldly on love and physical connection. Gaye’s track wrestled briefly with competition, initially replacing Stories’ “Brother Louie” at the peak, only to be chased by Helen Reddy’s “Delta Dawn” a week later. But in a powerful comeback, Gaye regained the summit, ruling the charts for a second thrilling week.
Behind the scenes, the song was a collaboration of profound depth. Written and produced by Gaye himself alongside Ed Townsend, the original concept behind the lyrics took a surprising turn. Townsend confessed that the song was initially meant to symbolize overcoming addiction and moving forward in life—not simply the allure of se.x. But Marvin Gaye’s vision was crystal clear, boldly declaring in the album’s sleeve notes, “I can’t see anything wrong with se.x between consenting anybodies.”
The sessions that brought this classic to life took place at Motown’s Hitsville West Studios in March 1973, where legendary musicians like Plas Johnson, Ernie Watts, and The Crusaders’ Joe Sample and Wilton Felder lent their talents. Gaye himself contributed on the piano, creating an irresistible groove so infectious it was revisited in the album’s track “Keep Gettin’ It On.”
Ed Townsend’s admiration for Gaye shines through in his 2001 deluxe edition liner notes: “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.”
Listeners of a certain age will remember the unmistakable, tender, and heartfelt lyrics that invite love and connection, reflecting life’s sweetest pleasures:
“I’ve been really tryin’, baby, tryin’ to hold back this feeling for so long… Let’s get it on, baby, let’s get it on.”
This timeless anthem was not just a hit; it was a cultural moment—bold, honest, and unapologetically passionate. It challenges listeners to embrace love freely, without shame or hesitation. The song’s legacy remains fiercely alive, reminding us all of the power in genuine connection, pure passion, and the bravery to express it.
Marvin Gaye’s Let’s Get It On is more than a record; it is a sensual revolution that echoed through the airwaves in 1973 and continues to captivate hearts today.