About the song
Marvin Gaye, the Prince of Motown, released a timeless classic in 1965 titled “Ain’t That Peculiar.” This track, a soulful blend of rhythm and blues, R&B, and doo-wop, quickly became a chart-topper and remains a beloved staple in popular music.
The song’s infectious melody and Gaye’s smooth, soulful vocals immediately captivate the listener. The lyrics, penned by Berry Gordy Jr. and Smokey Robinson, explore themes of love, jealousy, and suspicion with a playful and humorous undertone. The song’s central premise revolves around a man’s suspicion that his girlfriend is cheating on him, but he’s too afraid to confront her.
Gaye’s performance is nothing short of exceptional. His voice, rich and emotive, conveys a range of emotions, from playful and teasing to vulnerable and heartbroken. The backing vocals, provided by The Miracles, add a layer of harmony and depth to the arrangement.
“Ain’t That Peculiar” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s popularity was further boosted by the release of a promotional film in 1965, which featured Gaye and The Miracles performing the song live.
Over the years, “Ain’t That Peculiar” has been covered by numerous artists, including The Temptations, Michael Jackson, and Amy Winehouse. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless melody, relatable lyrics, and Gaye’s unforgettable vocal performance. It’s a testament to Gaye’s talent as a songwriter and singer, and a reminder of the enduring power of music.
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Lyrics
Honey, you do me wrong but still I’m crazy about you
Stay away too long and I can’t do without you
Every chance you get you seem to hurt me more and more
But each hurt makes my love stronger than before
I know flowers go through rain
But how can love go through pain?
Ain’t that peculiar?
A peculiar-arity
Ain’t that peculiar, baby?
Peculiar as can be
Oh, you tell me lies that should be obvious to me
But I’m so much in love with you, baby, ’til I don’t want to see
That things you do and say are designed to make me blue
It’s a doggone shame my love for you makes all your lies seem true
But if the truth makes love last longer
Why do lies make my love stronger? (Stronger, stronger, stronger)
Ain’t that peculiar?
Peculiar as can be
Ain’t that peculiar?
A peculiar-arity, hey, hey
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, hey, hey (hey, hey)
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, hey, hey (hey, hey)
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
I cried so much just like a child that’s lost its home
Maybe, baby, you think these tears I cry are tears of joy
A child can cry so much until you do everything they say
But unlike a child my tears don’t help me to get my way
I know love can last through years
But how can love last through tears? (Tears, tears, tears)
Now ain’t that peculiar baby?
Peculiar-arity
Ain’t it peculiar, honey?
Peculiar as can be
Said I don’t understand it baby
It’s so strange sometimes
Ain’t it peculiar, darling?