How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) (song)

“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” is a remarkable song from American soul singer Marvin Gaye. Recorded for his fifth studio album of the same name in 1965, the song was penned in 1964 by the Motown songwriting team of Holland–Dozier–Holland and produced by Brian Holland and Lamont Dozier.

The title of the song was inspired by Jackie Gleason’s signature phrase, “How Sweet It Is!” This track stands out as a radiant example of soul music and showcases Gaye‘s distinct style and the era’s musical essence.

1. Marvin’s Version

Released as a single in September 1964, How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number three on the R&B Singles chart by January 1965. It became Gaye‘s most successful single at that time, with record sales exceeding 900,000 copies.

The song features Gaye on lead vocals, The Andantes on background vocals, and The Funk Brothers on various instruments, including piano and percussion. Its German-language version, titled “Wie Schön Das Is“, also reflects Gaye‘s versatility as an artist.

Gaye‘s version of How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) has been described as a “medium-paced, rollicking chorus-backed ode” and a “radiant pop confection.” This straightforward love song, highlighting the joy and exuberance of being in love, marked a departure from Gaye‘s usual more complex themes, focusing instead on the soulfulness and simplicity of love’s bliss.

2. Other Notable Versions

The popularity of How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) transcended Gaye‘s original version, inspiring numerous covers by various artists.

Among the most notable is James Taylor‘s rendition, which brought a soft rock approach to the soulful classic. Taylor’s version achieved significant success, demonstrating the song’s adaptability across different musical styles and generations.

Other artists have also left their mark on the song, each interpreting it in their unique style, further cementing the song’s legacy in the music industry. The continued popularity and reinvention of How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) illustrate its timeless appeal and Gaye‘s enduring influence on music.

3. Lyrics

How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

I needed the shelter of someone’s arms and there you were
I needed someone to understand my ups and downs
and there you were
With sweet love and devotion
deeply touching my emotion
I want to stop and thank you baby
I just want to stop and thank you baby

How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

I close my eyes at night,
wondering where would I be without you in my life
Everything I did was just a bore,
everywhere I went it seems I’d been there before
But you brightened up for me all of my days
With a love so sweet in so many ways
I want to stop and thank you baby
I want to stop and thank you baby

How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you

You were better to me than I’ve been to myself
For me, there’s you and there ain’t nobody else
I want to stop and thank you baby
I just want to stop and thank you baby

(repeat and fade):
How sweet it is to be loved by you
How sweet it is to be loved by you