Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By: A Soulful Duet About the Search for True Love
In the realm of soul music, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell stand as a legendary duo, their voices intertwining in perfect harmony to create some of the most enduring and beloved songs of the genre. Among their many hits, “Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By” stands out as a soulful gem, a testament to the power of love and the challenges of finding it.
Released in 1969, “Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By” marked a turning point in Gaye and Terrell’s careers, showcasing their mature songwriting and vocal prowess. The song topped the Billboard R&B Singles chart and reached number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming an instant classic.
The song opens with a captivating melody, immediately setting the stage for the duet’s soulful vocals. Gaye and Terrell trade verses, their voices complementing each other perfectly as they express the complexities of love and the yearning for genuine connection.
See More: Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – Two Can Have a Party
The lyrics, penned by Ashford & Simpson, capture the essence of the song’s title, acknowledging the challenges of finding true love but also celebrating the joy when it does arrive. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with its repeated refrain:
Good lovin’ ain’t easy to come by Good lovin’ ain’t easy to come by Good lovin’ ain’t easy to come by, oh no no
The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a driving rhythm section, soulful horns, and a lush string accompaniment. This understated backdrop allows Gaye and Terrell’s vocals to take center stage, their voices soaring with emotion as they deliver the song’s heartfelt message.
“Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By” has become a timeless soul classic, covered by numerous artists and sampled in countless hip-hop tracks. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to capture the universal human experience of searching for love and the joy of finding it, even amidst the challenges.
Beyond its musical impact, “Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By” stands as a testament to the power of a duet. Gaye and Terrell’s voices blend seamlessly, creating a tapestry of sound that is both powerful and intimate. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their shared passion for the music shines through in every note.
“Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By” is a must-have for any soul music collection, a song that will continue to touch hearts and inspire listeners for generations to come. It is a reminder that true love is worth the wait, even when the search is not easy.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Ashford & Simpson.
- It was released in 1969 as the title track of Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell’s album Easy.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Good Lovin’ Ain’t Easy to Come By” has been covered by numerous artists, including The Righteous Brothers, Smokey Robinson, and Aretha Franklin.