About the song
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a timeless soul classic that has become an iconic anthem in the world of music. Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, the song was first recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1966, but it was Marvin Gaye’s version, released in 1968, that catapulted the song to international fame. The song’s unique blend of soulful vocals, lush harmonies, and a driving rhythm track, courtesy of the Funk Brothers, made it an instant hit.
The song’s story is one of betrayal and heartbreak, as the protagonist learns of his girlfriend’s infidelity through indirect means, “through the grapevine.” The lyrics are poignant and relatable, capturing the emotions of a person struggling to come to terms with the truth. The song’s composition, in E-flat minor, adds to its emotional depth, creating a sense of longing and despair.
Marvin Gaye’s version of “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of all time. It has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and has been ranked on various lists of the greatest songs of all time, including Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song’s impact extends beyond its musical significance, as it has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the pain and heartache that can come with the discovery of infidelity.
Throughout its history, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” has been covered by numerous artists, including Creedence Clearwater Revival, who recorded an 11-minute version for their 1970 album Cosmo’s Factory. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it continues to be celebrated as a classic of soul music.
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Lyrics
Ooh, bet you’re wonderin’ how I knew
‘Bout your plan to make me blue
With some other guy that you knew before
Between the two of us guys
You know I loved you more
It took me by surprise, I must say
When I found out yesterday
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
You know that a man ain’t supposed to cry
But these tears, I can’t hold inside
Losin’ you would end my life, you see
‘Cause you mean that much to me
You could have told me yourself
That you found someone else, instead
I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
People say, “You hear from what you see
Not, not, not from what you hear”
I can’t help but being confused
If it’s true, won’t you tell me, dear?
Do you plan to let me go
For the other guy that you knew before?
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah