Top 10 Songs by Marvin Gaye

I don’t think there’s a person alive over the age of 35 that doesn’t know about the legendary Marvin Gaye. I realize that it’s been over two decades since his father senselessly snuffed out his life, but Gaye’s music lives on – and still inspires new artists to this very day. 

Having said that, selecting 10 songs by Gaye for this column was akin to having a tooth pulled – just downright painful.
Beginning in 1963, Gaye has had 22 singles reach the top 10 on the U.S. charts, while 12 have reached the number one spot alone. Again, compiling this list was a tenuous task that left me mentally exhausted (although it doesn’t take much). 

Okay, all jokes aside, here are my top 10 songs by Marvelous Marvin Gaye. 

1. What’s Going On (1971)
This is my favorite song by Gaye – and although it was a close call, I think this song epitomizes the greatness of Marvin Gaye to a tee. I find it absolutely incredible how this song, that Gaye recorded over three decades ago, describes exactly what is happening in our society today.
Not only is this my favorite song by Marvin Gaye, it’s also his best and most revealing song, not to mention, one of the most prophetic songs ever recorded by any artist ever. 

2. Sexual Healing (1982)
This was Gaye’s last big hit and the one that finally gave him his just due as he won two Grammy Awards for the song (Best R&B Male Vocal Performance and Best R&B Instrumental) in February of 1983. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long after he achieved this success, that he tragically died at the hands of his father. 

3. Let’s Get It On (1973)
Talk about a feel-good party song! Let’s Get It On is undeniably one of Gaye’s greatest hits ever and one of the best party songs of all-time. Young or old, black or white, Let’s Get It On is a great song that has, and will continue, to stand the test of time.