My Mistake (Was to Love You)

My Mistake (Was to Love You) marks a captivating chapter in the musical journey of Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross. Released in 1973, this duet is a standout track from their collaborative album, ‘Diana & Marvin‘.

The song beautifully intertwines the soulful voices of Gaye and Ross, creating a poignant narrative of love and regret. Its melodic flow and heartfelt lyrics encapsulate the complexity of relationships, showcasing both artists’ ability to convey deep emotions through music. ‘My Mistake (Was to Love You)‘ remains a significant piece in the repertoire of Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross, reflecting the era’s rich soul and R&B scene.

1. Marvin and Diana’s Version

The version of My Mistake (Was to Love You) featuring Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross is a testament to their incredible vocal chemistry. The song, written by Gloria Jones and Pam Sawyer, weaves a narrative of a strained relationship, expressed through the interplay of Marvin and Diana’s emotive singing.

The production, rich in the sound of early 70s soul, complements their voices with a blend of lush instrumentals and harmonious background vocals. This duet not only highlights the individual talents of Gaye and Ross but also their ability to create something greater together.

2. Lyrics

My mistake was to love you, girl
Love you, girl
My mistake was to give you all
Tell the world

First I had you
In the palm of my hand
But I let you slip through
Like rain to sand
At the beginning
When I didn’t care
Like my own reflection
You were always there

My mistake was to love you, girl
Love you, girl
My mistake was to give you all
Tell the world

You were sweeter
Then my very own skin
But what did I do for you
Not a thing
In front of my friends
You broke me down
Since then darling
It’s hard to track you down

My mistake was to love you, boy
Love you, boy
My mistake was to give my all
Tell the world

Many a smile
You put om ny face
But I paid dearly
With the tears I taste

My tenderness
Made you cold, not sweet
‘Cause if a girl loves you
You only call her weak

My mistake was to love you, boy
Love you, boy
My mistake was to give my all
Tell the world

My mistake was to love you, girl
Love you, girl
My mistake was to give you all
Tell the world