Let’s get it on…With those four simple words, Marvin Gaye transformed soul music. Here is the sensual touchstone for all of the erotic R&B and slow jams that followed, an album that embraces carnal delights and encourages romantic affairs. Rarely has an artist more explicitly and effectively spelled out his goals.

A lustful bookend to 1971’s What’s Going On, Let’s Get It On took shape after the vocalist changed his approach while singing the classic title song. Originally intended to be a tune about moving on with life, Gaye turned it into a paean to sexual craving and consummate desire after taking notice of Janis Hunter, a studio visitor that ultimately became the Motown legend’s second wife. The mood, feel, and tone of the record took off from there.

As for Gaye’s first wife, Anna Gordy, the album-closing “Just to Keep You Satisfied” is widely seen as the singer’s farewell to her. Like they say, when one door closes, another opens. Etched with tempting grooves and Gaye’s deep tenor, Let’s Get It On caused an untold number of doors, to swing wide open.

1. Let’s Get It On
2. Please Don’t Stay (once You Go Away)
3. If I Should Die Tonight
4. Keep Gettin’ It On
5. Come Get To This
6. Distant Lover
7. You Sure Love To Ball
8. Just To Keep You Satisfied