I Got To Get To California - Marvin Gaye

I Got To Get To California - Marvin Gaye

2:52

M.P.G., 1969

Written by Shena DeMell and Ivy Jo Hunter

This was Gaye's first Top 40 album.  The album's title is an acronym for his full name, Marvin Pentz Gay.  In this song, the narrator meeds to get out west.  The reason?  Well, obviously, for love.  "In the sunset I can see my baby's face just haunting me / Reminding me of the tenderness that heaven knows was in her kiss."  He was jealous, he was a fool.  Now he can't sleep and dreams of her every day.  He's got to hurry!  "I pray it's not too late, oh, I might have to catch a freight."  He might even have to hitch hike.  Gaye's confident but urgent vocals are perfect here.