About the Song

You’re All I Need to Get By: A Soulful Duet by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

In the realm of soul music, few duets resonate with the heartfelt emotion and raw passion of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “You’re All I Need to Get By”. Released in 1968, this timeless classic stands as a testament to the power of love to transcend life’s trials and tribulations.

From the opening notes, the song sets the stage for an intimate exchange between two lovers. Gaye’s soulful vocals intertwine with Terrell’s angelic harmonies, creating a tapestry of sound that is both tender and powerful. The lyrics, penned by Stevie Wonder, capture the essence of unwavering devotion, painting a vivid picture of two souls bound by an unbreakable connection.

As the song progresses, the melody builds, carrying the listener on a wave of emotion. Gaye’s voice soars, expressing the depths of his love, while Terrell’s harmonies provide a soothing counterpoint, reinforcing the message of unwavering support and understanding. The arrangement, characterized by its lush orchestration and prominent bassline, perfectly complements the vocal interplay, creating an atmosphere of soulful intensity.

“You’re All I Need to Get By” is more than just a love song; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In the face of adversity, the singers find solace and strength in each other’s love, declaring that their bond is enough to overcome any obstacle. This message of hope and perseverance resonates deeply with listeners, offering solace and inspiration in times of hardship.

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, each adding their own interpretation to the classic. However, Gaye and Terrell’s original rendition remains the definitive version, capturing the essence of the song’s raw emotion and heartfelt message.

“You’re All I Need to Get By” is a true gem of soul music, a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. Its message of love, resilience, and hope is as relevant today as it was when it was first released, making it an enduring anthem for the power of human connection.

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Lyric

… You’re all I need to get by
… Like the sweet morning dew, I took one look at youAnd it was plain to seeYou were my destinyWith my arms open wideI threw away my prideI’ll sacrifice for youDedicate my life for you
… I will go where you leadAlways there in time of needAnd when I lose my willYou’ll be there to push me up the hill
… There’s no, no looking back for usWe got love, sure ‘nough, that’s enoughYou’re all, you’re all I need to get by(You’re all I need to get by) Tammi, listen
… Like an eagle protects his nest, for you, I’ll do my bestStand by you like a tree, and dare anybody to try and move meDarling in you, I foundStrength where I was torn downDon’t know what’s in store, but together we can open any door
… Just to do what’s good for you and inspire you a little higherI know you can make a man out of a soul that didn’t have a goal‘Cause we, we got the right foundation and with love and determinationYou’re all, you’re all I want to strive for and do a little moreAll, all the joys under the sun wrapped up into oneYou’re all, you’re all I needYou’re all I needYou’re all I needTo get by
… Oh, babeOh, babeHoney, honey, honey, honey, yeahI need you darlingOh, I need you (you’re all)All your love (all I need)Oh, oh, ohI love you darling (oh, baby)All I needI need your love (you’re all I want)Oh (oh)All you love now (yeah)