Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – The Onion Song

Introduction to “The Onion Song” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, two of the most iconic voices in Motown history, collaborated on a series of unforgettable duets that defined the sound of the late 1960s.

Background

One such gem, “The Onion Song”, stands as a testament to their undeniable chemistry and musical artistry. Released in 1967, this soulful ballad showcases their ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability through their harmonious vocals.

The song’s introspective lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of human relationships. Gaye and Terrell’s voices intertwine seamlessly, creating a captivating atmosphere that draws listeners into the heart of the narrative.

The arrangement is stripped down, allowing the singers’ vocal performances to take center stage. The gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar provides a melodic backdrop, while the subtle addition of strings adds depth and richness to the sound.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

The world is just a great big onion
And pain and fear are the spices that make you cry
(Oh baby) Oh, and the only way to get rid of this great big onion
Is to plant love seeds until it dies, uh-huh

Hey world! We got a great big job to do
Yeah, we need you
And everybody who loves through
Oh, Don’t you know we’ve got to clean up this place
And reach far high and oh yeah (Yes we do now)
We gotta be headstrong about righting the wrong
And make a lot more happy souls oh, ohh (oh baby)

The world is just a great big onion
And I don’t care, it’s the face people like to wear (Yes it is now)
And the only way to get rid of this great big onion
Every single soul’s got to do their share
Tell ’em bout it, baby! (woo)

So come on, let’s knock on every door (woo)
Tell them love is the answer
Whether they’re rich or poor, oh yeah
Now we don’t care what you do
How you look, or your status claim, baby
No, no, because “brothers & sisters” from now on is gonna be everyone’s name, oh-oh

The world is just a great big onion
And pain & fear are the spices that make you cry (Yes it is)
And the only way to get rid of this great big onion
Is to plant love seeds
Now everybody got to plant love seeds
Come on and plant love seeds
Until it dies
The world is just a great big onion