Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through the Grapevine - 1968
Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through the Grapevine - 1968
Input
Marvin Gaye's "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" is an iconic soul song from 1968 that has left a lasting impact on music and culture. Let's dive into the history, impact, and nuances of this classic track.
Background
"I Heard It Through the Grapevine" was originally written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for Motown Records. Marvin Gaye's version, released in 1968, became one of his most famous songs. The song reflects the sound and social context of the late 1960s, blending soulful melodies with lyrics that convey a sense of betrayal and suspicion.
Musical Elements
The song is known for its distinctive bass line, gospel-influenced vocal arrangements, and the use of orchestral instruments which was relatively new in soul music at the time. Marvin Gaye's emotive vocal performance adds a layer of depth and feeling that has resonated with audiences for decades.
Cultural Impact
"I Heard It Through the Grapevine" is not just a song, but a cultural phenomenon. It represents a significant moment in the Motown era and the larger African American musical landscape. The song has been covered by various artists and remains a staple in the world of music.
Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye was a singer, songwriter, and record producer. He helped to shape the sound of Motown in the 1960s and is remembered as one of the greatest artists of all time. His contributions to music extend beyond "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," including a series of hits and critically acclaimed albums.
For more information, check out the Marvin Gaye Wikipedia page and the song's Wikipedia page.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What year was Marvin Gaye's version of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" released? (1968) (!1972) (!1965) (!1970)
Which record label released "I Heard It Through the Grapevine"? (Motown Records) (!Atlantic Records) (!Stax Records) (!Capitol Records)
Who originally wrote "I Heard It Through the Grapevine"? (Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong) (!Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye) (!Holland-Dozier-Holland) (!Ashford & Simpson)
What is a distinctive feature of the song's music? (Its distinctive bass line) (!A prominent guitar solo) (!Extended drum solos) (!Use of synthesizers)
What theme does the song primarily deal with? (Betrayal and suspicion) (!Romantic love) (!Social justice) (!Celebration and joy)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What genre is Marvin Gaye most associated with? (Soul) (!Rock) (!Jazz) (!Country)
Which album of Marvin Gaye is considered one of his masterpieces and addresses social issues? (What's Going On) (!Let's Get It On) (!I Want You) (!Here, My Dear)
Before his solo success, with which group did Marvin Gaye perform? (The Moonglows) (!The Temptations) (!The Miracles) (!The Supremes)
In which city was Marvin Gaye born? (Washington, D.C.) (!Detroit, Michigan) (!Los Angeles, California) (!Memphis, Tennessee)
Which song did Marvin Gaye famously duet with Tammi Terrell? (Ain't No Mountain High Enough) (!Sexual Healing) (!Let's Get It On) (!Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology))
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
Complete the lyric: "I Heard It Through the Grapevine, not much longer would you...?" (Be mine) (!Stay true) (!Be blue) (!Hold on)
The song's lyrics convey a sense of...? (Mistrust and disbelief) (!Unconditional love) (!Joyful celebration) (!Personal triumph)
Which phrase repeats throughout the chorus? ("I heard it through the grapevine") (!"Just about to lose my mind") (!"Not much longer would you be mine") (!"Oh, I'm just about to lose my mind")
How does the narrator claim to have learned about the betrayal? (Through the grapevine) (!From a friend) (!Directly from the partner) (!In a letter)
What emotion is primarily expressed in the song's lyrics? (Heartbreak and betrayal) (!Happiness and contentment) (!Anger and revenge) (!Hope and aspiration)
Memory
| Marvin Gaye | Soul Music |
| 1968 | I Heard It Through the Grapevine Release Year |
| Motown Records | Record Label of the Song |
| Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong | Songwriters |
| Betrayal and Suspicion | Central Theme of the Song |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Explore Different Versions: Listen to other versions of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," such as those by Gladys Knight & the Pips or Creedence Clearwater Revival, and compare them to Marvin Gaye's version.
- Draw the Song: Create a drawing or painting that you feel represents the theme of the song.
- Write a Review: Write a short review of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," focusing on your personal reaction and the song's elements like vocals, instruments, and lyrics.
Standard
- Research Motown Records: Investigate the history of Motown Records and its impact on the music industry.
- Song Analysis: Analyze the lyrics of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and discuss the song's themes of betrayal and suspicion.
- Marvin Gaye's Musical Journey: Research Marvin Gaye's career and create a timeline of his major musical milestones.
Difficult
- Create a Music Video: Develop a concept for a music video for "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and outline your ideas for imagery and storytelling.
- Interview Project: Conduct interviews with people who lived during the 1960s and ask them about their memories and feelings associated with the song.
- Musical Influence Essay: Write an essay on how "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" influenced other musicians and genres.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the Cultural Impact: How did "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" reflect the social and cultural atmosphere of the late 1960s?
- Compare and Contrast: Compare "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" to another popular song from the 1960s in terms of style, theme, and cultural impact.
- Legacy of Marvin Gaye: Discuss the ways in which Marvin Gaye's music, including "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," has influenced modern artists.
- Music and Emotions: How does "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" use musical elements to convey emotions and tell a story?
- The Evolution of Soul Music: Discuss the evolution of soul music and place "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" within this context.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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