Distant Lover

Distant Lover is a poignant soul song by Marvin Gaye, released in 1973 on his album “Let’s Get It On” and serving as the B-side for the single “Come Get to This“.

The song, particularly its live version released in 1974, became one of Gaye’s most successful singles in the mid-1970s. This ballad, rich in emotional depth and longing, resonates with the universal themes of love and distance, making it a timeless piece in Gaye’s illustrious career.

1. Marvin’s Version

The creation of Distant Lover began in 1970 during a recording session for the song ‘What’s Going On‘. Gaye worked with songwriter Sandra Greene to compose the melody, initially recording a rough version titled ‘Head Title‘.

With further input from his sister-in-law, Gwen Gordy Fuqua, Gaye added more lyrics and crafted it into the song known today as Distant Lover. He reworked the song several times during these sessions, showcasing his commitment to capturing the song’s emotional essence. The final version of Distant Lover was recorded during the ‘Let’s Get It On’ sessions, featuring multiple takes and various refinements.

This studio version, characterized by Gaye’s powerful falsetto and tenor vocals, evokes a sense of longing and desperation for a distant love. The song’s intricate production and Gaye’s emotional delivery made it an instant classic, further solidifying his status as a soul music icon.

2. Impact

Distant Lover gained immense popularity with its live version, released in 1974 on the album “Marvin Gaye Live!“. This version, recorded at the Oakland Coliseum, captivated audiences with Gaye’s dynamic performance, leading to ecstatic reactions from the crowd.

The live rendition was praised as one of the greatest live performances of all time, showcasing Gaye’s ability to connect deeply with his audience. This live version’s success led to its release as a single, where it achieved significant chart success.

The song’s impact on later concerts and its role as a show-stopper until Gaye’s final tour in 1983 are testament to its enduring appeal. The live version’s raw energy and Gaye’s emotive delivery have made it a beloved and iconic performance in music history.

3. Lyrics

You know, when you’re in love and your lover leaves you
And you’ve got nobody, the lonely hours over here
Sittin’ home and thinkin’, you say:

Distant Lover, Lover
Ooh ,So many miles away ooh heaven knows that I 
long for you
Every night,every night and sometimes i yearn 
through the day.

Distant Lover ! oooh lover you should think about 
me say a prayer
for me. Please Please baby think about me sometime, 
think about me yeah.
Hey in Misery, Misery

As i reminisce , ooh baby through our joyful summer 
together, the promises we made of the daily letter,
then all of a sudden everything seemed to explode. 
Now i gaze out my window sugar down the lonesome road.

Distant lover ooh ooh sugar, how can you treat my heart 
so mean and cruel, don’t you know sugar that every moment 
that I spent with you i treasured it like it was a precious 
jewel. oooh Baby

LORD HAVE MERCY!

OOH BABY DON’T GO, PLEASE COME BACK BABY.
SOMETHING I WANNA SAY , WHEN YOU LEFT YOU 
TOOK ALL OF ME WITH YOU NOW LORD I WONDER 
DO YOU WANNA HEAR ME SCREAM AND PLEAD.
PLEASE, PLEASE COME BACK HOME GIRL ,
PLEASE BABY COME BACK HOME.

 

Oh baby, don’t go
Please come back, baby
Ooo, something I wanna say
When you left to go away
No ‘ther do I want, do you wanna have me plead and scream
Please! Please, oh please baby
Come back home, girl
Oh baby, come back
Oh oh