Marvin Gaye - Let’s Get it on - 1973
Marvin Gaye - Let’s Get it on - 1973
Input
Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On" (1973) "Let's Get It On" is one of the most iconic songs by American singer Marvin Gaye, released in 1973. Blending soul, R&B, and funk, it's not just a song but a significant cultural artifact that defined an era. In this section, you'll dive deep into the world of this classic hit, exploring its background, influence, and enduring legacy.
The Making of a Classic
The song was produced by Marvin Gaye and Ed Townsend. Its creation marked a shift in Marvin Gaye's career, moving away from the Motown sound to more personal and socially conscious themes. The lyrics, with a mix of raw emotion and subtlety, promote love and intimacy, making the song a staple in romantic settings.
Cultural Impact
"Let's Get It On" was not just a commercial success but also a cultural phenomenon. It became a symbol of the sexual revolution of the 1970s. The song's smooth melody, combined with Gaye's passionate vocals, captured the spirit of the time, breaking barriers and opening discussions on previously taboo subjects.
Legacy and Influence
Marvin Gaye's work, especially this song, influenced numerous artists across various genres. It's been covered, sampled, and referenced by many, becoming a timeless piece that transcends generations.
Further Listening
For those interested in exploring more of Marvin Gaye's music and the era it represents, consider listening to his other works like "What's Going On" and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine." Also, exploring similar artists from the 1970s soul and R&B scene can offer additional context and appreciation.
External Links to OERs: MOOCit
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What year was "Let's Get It On" released? (1973) (!1969) (!1975) (!1980)
Which genre best describes "Let's Get It On"? (Soul/R&B) (!Pop) (!Rock) (!Jazz)
Who co-produced "Let's Get It On" with Marvin Gaye? (Ed Townsend) (!Berry Gordy) (!Quincy Jones) (!Stevie Wonder)
What major theme is explored in "Let's Get It On"? (Sexuality and Romance) (!Political Unrest) (!Racial Equality) (!Personal Loss)
In what way did "Let's Get It On" signify a shift in Marvin Gaye's music? (From Motown sound to more personal themes) (!From solo to collaborative projects) (!From English to Spanish language songs) (!From acoustic to electronic music)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What other famous song is Marvin Gaye known for? ("What's Going On") (!"Thriller") (!"Respect") (!"Superstition")
In which city was Marvin Gaye born? (Washington D.C.) (!Los Angeles) (!Detroit) (!New York City)
Marvin Gaye was a part of which record label? (Motown) (!Atlantic Records) (!Columbia) (!Stax)
Apart from singing, what other musical talent did Marvin Gaye possess? (Songwriting) (!Drumming) (!Dancing) (!Piano Playing)
How did Marvin Gaye's music contribute to the 1970s cultural movements? (By reflecting and influencing the sexual revolution) (!By pioneering disco music) (!By leading the anti-war movement) (!By introducing rap and hip-hop)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
Which line follows "I've been really tryin', baby"? ("Tryin' to hold back this feeling for so long") (!"And if you feel like I feel, baby") (!"Come on, oh, come on") (!"Let's get it on, sugar")
Complete the lyric: "Let's get it on, __"? (sugar) (!baby) (!honey) (!darling)
How does Marvin Gaye describe the feeling he's trying to hold back? (Powerful) (!Gentle) (!New) (!Mysterious)
What does Marvin Gaye suggest they do in the song? (Get closer) (!Dance) (!Sing) (!Leave)
Which phrase repeats throughout the song? ("Let's get it on") (!"Oh baby") (!"Come on, come on") (!"Yeah, yeah, yeah")
Memory
| Marvin Gaye | "Let's Get It On" |
| 1973 | Release Year of the Song |
| Ed Townsend | Co-producer |
| Sexual Revolution | Major Theme |
| Soul/R&B | Genre |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Explore other songs from 1973: Compile a list of popular songs from 1973 and explore their themes and musical styles.
- Marvin Gaye's Discography: Research Marvin Gaye's discography and create a timeline of his musical career.
- Lyrics Analysis: Analyze the lyrics of "Let's Get It On" and write a short essay on its themes and message.
Standard
- Cultural Context: Investigate the cultural and social context of the 1970s and discuss how "Let's Get It On" reflected or influenced these aspects.
- Musical Analysis: Analyze the musical composition of "Let's Get It On," focusing on its melody, harmony, and rhythm.
- Compare and Contrast: Compare "Let's Get It On" with another Marvin Gaye song in terms of theme, style, and cultural impact.
Difficult
- Cover Versions: Research and compare different cover versions of "Let's Get It On." Discuss how each version interprets the song differently.
- Influence on Other Artists: Explore how Marvin Gaye and his music influenced other artists and genres.
- The Legacy of Marvin Gaye: Write a detailed essay on Marvin Gaye's legacy in music and culture.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the significance of Marvin Gaye's shift from Motown sound to more personal themes in his music.
- Analyze the role of "Let's Get It On" in the sexual revolution of the 1970s.
- Compare the musical styles and themes in "Let's Get It On" with contemporary music of the same era.
- Discuss the impact of Marvin Gaye's music on modern R&B and soul genres.
- Reflect on how "Let's Get It On" challenges or conforms to the conventions of its genre.
OERs on the Topic
Links
Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On" |
MUSIC QUIZ
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