Romantically Yours

by Marvin Gaye

Product Description:

Compilation producers: Harvey Fuqua, Gordon Banks.

Digitally remastered by Joe Gastwirt and David Mitson (CBS Records Studio).

Gaye's comeback in the early '80s heralded the return of one of soul music's finest talents. This 1985 release finds the man in characteristically smooth, suave, sexy, and silky-voiced form. While fans of such earthier, bass-heavy Gaye grooves as "Let's Get It On" may take issue with the heavily orchestrated feel of this record, criticisms come up short upon hearing Gaye's stirring, sophisticated takes on these songs.

A smattering of tracks sound somewhat stilted, such as the syrupy rendition of "Maria" (from WEST SIDE STORY). But ROMANTICALLY YOURS is largely a pinnacle of intimate mood music. Listening to "Why Did I Choose You?" and "Stranger In My Life," it's difficult not to envision oneself coupled in a cinematic living room scene, smooching on the couch in the glow of candlelight and white wine. Even in this latter part of his career, Gaye's influence is apparent. The interwoven vocal lines of "The Shadow Of Your Smile" or the jazzy "I Won't Cry Anymore" provide a definitive template for the "contemporary R&B" sound that flooded '80s and '90s radio. For lovers and for lovers of real soul music, Marvin Gaye was and is the man.