The Outtake Of Marvin Singing “Let’S Get It On” In Falsetto — And Why It Was Shelved

April 2, 2025

Marvin Gaye stood in the dimly lit studio, surrounded by a sea of instruments and the gentle hum of machinery. The smell of coffee lingered in the air, but what filled the room was a palpable sense of excitement. It was the early 1970s, a time when music was not just a passion but a lifeline for Marvin. He had wrestled with personal demons, and music was the way he connected to the world and himself. So when he decided to record a falsetto version of “Let’s Get It On,” it wasn’t just a creative choice; it was a piece of his soul.

As he leaned into the microphone, Marvin closed his eyes and let the notes dance through him. His voice soared with emotion, higher and sweeter than ever. The falsetto added a delicate vulnerability to the lyrics, turning them into a whisper of longing and love. The sound was magical, and even the engineers in the room felt a chill run down their spines. They knew they were witnessing something extraordinary, something that could change the landscape of music. Yet, beneath the surface of this ethereal performance, there lay a tension that would change everything.

Despite the beauty of Marvin’s rendition, the outtake was ultimately shelved. The executives believed that the falsetto version didn’t fit the vision they had for the album. They wanted something grittier and more grounded, something that reflected the raw, passionate man they thought Marvin was. Their decision devastated him. The falsetto had been a breakthrough for Marvin, a way to express the gentle side of his personality that he often kept hidden. Shelving the track felt like silencing a part of himself, and for a moment, he considered giving up on that vulnerable side of his artistry.

However, the experience ignited a fire within Marvin. Instead of retreating into defeat, he took the disappointment and channeled it into his next works. He realized that his unique sound needed to be heard, even if it didn’t always align with commercial expectations. With renewed determination, he embraced everything about himself, falsetto and all. Marvin ultimately released “Let’s Get It On” as it was meant to be—a passionate declaration of love that resonated with countless listeners. It became one of his most celebrated songs, showcasing his ability to blend raw emotion with silky smooth melody.

The journey taught Marvin an invaluable lesson about authenticity. Although the falsetto version was never released, it became a stepping stone in his career, reminding him to stay true to his artistic instincts. He continued to explore different styles and sounds, breaking boundaries and redefining what soul music could be. In doing so, he inspired countless artists to embrace their individuality, to express their true selves without fear of judgment.

Marvin Gaye’s courage to persevere through rejection became a source of inspiration for many. The shelved falsetto outtake may not have made it to the radio, but its impact lingered in the air like a sweet melody. It was a reminder that even the most talented musicians face challenges, but with resilience and passion, it’s possible to create something beautiful that resonates with the hearts of others. Through his journey, Marvin taught us all that our vulnerabilities can illuminate the path to our greatest triumphs.