About the song
“Distant Lover” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1973 as the sixth song on Marvin Gaye’s iconic album “Let’s Get It On”, this soulful ballad has become a staple of R&B and soul music. The song’s origins date back to 1970, when Gaye composed the melody with songwriter Sandra Greene during a recording session. Initially titled “Head Title”, the song underwent several reworkings before finally taking shape as “Distant Lover”.
The studio version of the song features Gaye’s signature falsetto and tenor vocals, pleading with his lover to “come back home”. The song’s dreamy atmosphere is enhanced by stately horn and string arrangements, tumbling drum fills, and mellow background vocals. Gaye’s rich vocal performance builds from a heartbroken croon to an impassioned wail, making “Distant Lover” a showcase for his incredible vocal skills.
The song’s live version, recorded in 1974, is equally impressive. Building from a slowed-down version of his instrumental “Theme from Trouble Man”, Gaye’s performance is electrifying, with female audience members screaming in delight. This version was later released as a single and peaked at #28 on the pop singles chart and #12 on the R&B singles chart.
“Distant Lover” has had a lasting impact on music, with its 1974 live version being regarded as one of the greatest live performances of all time. The song has been sampled by Kanye West on his 2004 album “The College Dropout” and continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. With its timeless melody, heartfelt lyrics, and unforgettable performance, “Distant Lover” remains a beloved classic in the Marvin Gaye discography.
Video
Lyrics
Distant lover, lover
(Lover, lover, lover)
So many miles away
Heaven knows that I long for you
Every night, every night
I plan, sometimes I dance
Through the day
Distant lover, lover
(Lover, lover, lover)
You should think about me
And say a prayer for me
Please, please baby
Think about me sometimes
Think about me here
Here in misery
Misery
As I reminisce, oh baby
Through our joyful summer together
The promises we made
All the daily letters
Then, all of a sudden
Everything seemed to explode
Now, I gaze out my window
Sugar, down a lonesome road
Distant lover
(Lover, lover, lover)
Sugar, how can you treat my heart
So mean and cruel
Sugar, sugar
That every moment that I spent with you
I treasure every like it was a precious jewel
(Please) Lord have mercy
Please, come back, baby
Somethin’ I wanna say
When you left
You took all of me with you
Do you wanna hear me scream
Please please oh please baby
Come back and hold me, girl