Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing
“Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” is a song written by Ashford & Simpson and originally recorded by American soul duo Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell for the Tamla label in 1968. The song was the duo’s second number-one single on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, and it also reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Background and composition
“Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” was written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, a songwriting and production team who were also responsible for many of Gaye and Terrell’s other hits, including “You’re All I Need” and “Your Precious Love.” The song is a classic soul ballad about the power of love and the importance of finding a true partner.
Recording and production
“Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” was recorded at the Motown Recording Studio in Detroit, Michigan in 1968. The song was produced by Ashford & Simpson.
The recording features Gaye and Terrell on vocals. Gaye’s vocals are passionate and soulful, while Terrell’s vocals are sweet and angelic. The song’s instrumentation is simple, yet effective, with a driving beat and a catchy melody.
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“Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” is a beautiful and moving song that will be cherished for generations to come.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson.
- The song was recorded at the Motown Recording Studio in Detroit, Michigan in 1968.
- The song was produced by Ashford & Simpson.
- The song was a critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” has been covered by many artists, including Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, and Luther Vandross.