What You Gave Me
Tammi Terrell, Marvin Gaye
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Like a breath of spring you came And as you leave, I can only sigh your name Cries of anguish echo from way down But will never reach my lips to make a sound Though it seems my world is crumblin' Honey, you don't owe me anything 'Cause what you gave me, girl Is more than enough to last, oh yes it is And what you gave me, girl Is more than enough to last, oh yes it is You've given me so much warmth I don't see how I could ever grow cold In my mind, there's a picture of you and I That nobody has the price to buy I don't know what made you change your mind But you'll be back, it's just a matter of time What you gave me Is more than enough to last, oh yeah And what you gave me Is more than enough to last Into my life you came like a breath of spring Givin' me a song to sing, oh yeah, oh yeah And though I know you're leavin' I won't be grievin' 'cause I know Time has a way of showin' us The things we really need And no matter where you go I know you'll find your way back home, oh baby Though I know it's not reality You'll always be a part of me 'Cause what you gave me Is more than enough to last, oh, yeah, yeah And what you gave me, hey Is more than enough to last What you gave me Is more than enough to last And what you gave me Is more than enough to last
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Written by: NICKOLAS ASHFORD, VALERIE SIMPSON
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Artists"What You Gave Me" is a soulful duet performed by legendary singer-songwriter Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. They were one of the most successful duos in the history of rhythm and blues.
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GenreThe song perfectly exemplifies the smooth, soulful R&B genre that was popular during the late 1960s, marked by strong vocal performances and lush, layered instrumental arrangements.
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SongwritingThe song was written by the prominent Motown songwriting and production team known as Ashford & Simpson.
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Album PresenceThe track “What You Gave Me” is a part of the album titled ‘Easy’ released in 1969, which was the third and final duet studio album by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.
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Chart PerformanceNot specifically charting as a single, the song was popular on radio, and the album ‘Easy’ peaked at #38 on the Billboard pop albums chart.
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Terrell's IllnessThe release of the song was shadowed by the severe illness of Tammi Terrell. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor while recording the album, which eventually led to her early demise in 1970.
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Vocal ChallengesDue to Terrell's illness, for some parts of the songs in the album including "What You Gave Me," her vocals had to be replaced by singer Valerie Simpson who mimicked Terrell's vocal style.
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Song Meaning“What You Gave Me” is about a person expressing gratitude to their lover for showing them real love which has changed their life and perspective immensely.
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LegacyAfter Tammi Terrell’s death, “What You Gave Me” along with the other songs in the album became particularly symbolic and poignant, considered some of the duo’s best work that reflected their rich musical chemistry.
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Motown EraThe song “What You Gave Me” is regarded as a classic piece from the Motown era and has been sampled and covered by various artists over the decades, clearly testifying to its enduring influence in the music industry.
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Citation
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