Ah, Sexual Healing by Marvin Gaye. Now that’s a song that evokes a whole tapestry of emotions, doesn’t it? Released in 1982 on his album Midnight Love, it became a cultural touchstone, a sonic exploration of intimacy, and a testament to Gaye’s enduring artistry.
Background
By the early 1980s, Marvin Gaye was a far cry from the fresh-faced Motown star who delivered hits like “What’s Going On” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Personal struggles with addiction, a tumultuous divorce, and a self-imposed exile in Europe had left him searching for peace.
It was during this period, in the seaside town of Ostend, Belgium, that the seeds of Sexual Healing were sown.
The exact origins of the song are shrouded in a bit of mystery. Some accounts, like that of music critic David Ritz, claim Gaye was inspired by sadomasochistic imagery, seeking a deeper connection through pain and pleasure.
However, Gaye’s closest confidants dispute this, suggesting the core message was far more hopeful. Regardless of the inspiration, one thing is certain: Sexual Healing became a vehicle for Gaye to explore intimacy not just as physical gratification, but as a source of emotional and spiritual rejuvenation.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the music itself. Sexual Healing marked a departure from Gaye’s earlier soul stylings. Here, we hear the influence of burgeoning electronic music. The iconic, pulsating bassline is courtesy of the Roland TR-808, a drum machine that would become synonymous with 80s R&B.
Layered over this foundation are shimmering synthesizers and a hypnotic melody, all cradling Gaye’s unmistakable vocals.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Oh, baby now let’s get down tonight (ba-ba-ba, bum)Ooh baby, I’m hot just like an oven (heal me my darling, heal me my darling)I need some lovin’And baby, I can’t hold it much longer (heal me my darling, heal me my darling)It’s getting stronger and strongerWhen I get that feelingI want sexual healingSexual healing, oh babyMakes me feel so fineHelps to relieve my mindSexual healing baby, is good for meSexual healing is something that’s good for meWhenever blue teardrops are fallin’And my emotional stability is leaving meThere is something I can doI can get on the telephone and call you up, babyAnd honey I know you’ll be there to relieve meThe love you give to me will free meIf you don’t know the thing you’re dealingOh I can tell you, darling, that it’s sexual healingLet’s make love tonight(Wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up)‘Cause you do it rightBaby, I got sick this mornin’ (heal me my darling, heal me my darling)A sea was stormin’ inside of meBaby, I think I’m capsizin'(heal me my darling, heal me my darling)The waves are risin’ and risin’And when I get that feelingI want sexual healingSexual healing is good for meMakes me feel so fine, it’s such a rushHelps to relieve the mind, and it’s good for usSexual healing, baby, it’s good for meSexual healing is something that’s good for meWell, it’s good for me and it’s so good to me my baby, ohCome take control, just grab a holdOf my body and mind, soon we’ll be making it, honeyI’ll be feeling fineYou’re my medicine, open up and let me inDarling, you’re so great, I can’t wait for you to operate(Heal me my darling)(Heal me my darling)