I’ll Be Doggone

“I’ll Be Doggone“, recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1965, is a standout track in the realm of soul music. Released on the Tamla label, this song delves into the theme of a man’s devotion and the consequences of being wronged in love.

Notably written by Miracles members Smokey Robinson, Pete Moore, and Marv Tarplin, the song was originally intended for The Temptations but found its perfect voice in Gaye. It became a milestone in Gaye’s career, being his first million-selling record and achieving the number-one spot on the R&B chart.

1. Marvin’s Version

Achieving widespread acclaim, I’ll Be Doggone not only showcased Gaye‘s vocal prowess but also marked his first foray into co-writing with Smokey Robinson. The song resonated with its audience, staying at the top of the R&B chart for two weeks and reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100.

This track, characterized by its rhythmic, bluesy undertones and a catchy riff, was described as a “powerful follow-up” to Gaye‘s previous hit, “How Sweet It Is“. The recording also featured backing vocals by The Miracles and The Andantes, with Marv Tarplin of The Miracles on lead guitar, adding depth to the song’s soulful essence.

2. Other Versions

The influence of I’ll Be Doggone extended beyond Gaye‘s version, inspiring covers by various artists. Notably, Paul Revere & the Raiders, Albert King, and Solomon Burke each brought their unique interpretations to the song.

Swedish rock band Tages achieved significant success with their rendition, reaching the top-10 in Sweden in 1966. Additionally, Penny DeHaven charted on the Billboard Country Chart with her version in 1973, showcasing the song’s versatile appeal across different music genres and audiences.

3. Lyrics

Well, I’ll be doggone if I wouldn’t work all day
And I’ll be doggone if I wouldn’t bring you my pay
But if I ever caught you running around
Blowing my money all over this town

Then I wouldn’t be doggone
Hey, Hey! I’d be long gone
Then I wouldn’t be doggone
I’d be long gone

Now hey, hey, hey!
I’ll be doggone if you ain’t a pretty thing
And I’ll be doggone if you ain’t warm as a breath of spring
And if we live to be a hundred years old
If you ever let that spring turn cold

Then I wouldn’t be doggone
Hey! I’d be long gone
Oh I wouldn’t be doggone
I’d be long gone

Now did you hear what I say ?
Well now what I say
Oh, believe me Well, every woman should try
To be what ever has man wants her to be
And I don’t want much
All I want from you is for you to be true to me

Well, I’d be doggone if love ain’t a man’s best friend
Oh, baby, And I’ll be doggone if you ain’t the loving end
Though I know you make me feel like no baby could
If I ever found out that you’re no good

Then I wouldn’t be doggone
Hey, hey, hey, I’d be long gone
Well I wouldn’t de doggone baby
I’d be long gone