I Heard It Through the Grapevine

'I Heard It Through the Grapevine' (1968) became Marvin Gaye's breakthrough and a soul music milestone. Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, it’s a somber tune about learning of a loved one's unfaithfulness through rumors. Marvin's version is famous for its moody arrangement – the low drums, swirling strings, and his powerful vocals – which turned it into a crossover smash (#1 pop, #2 R&B). Ironically, Motown founder Berry Gordy initially rejected it for Marvin, thinking it was too dark. After its success, it became Motown's best-selling single at the time. The phrase 'heard it through the grapevine' went on to enter the pop lexicon as shorthand for gossip, and the song remains a soulful classic.