Together

AMG Review of Together

Andrew Hamilton
All Music Guide

The idea for the pairing of Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells came from Paul & Paula's success with "Hey Paula." The thinking was that if two unknowns could go number one pop, then two popular male and female singers would be a lock -- well, not quite. The first (and only) single release, "What's the Matter With You Baby" b/w "Once Upon a Time," was a two-sided hit but didn't ace either the pop or R&B chart. Some stations played both sides, while others spun one side over the other, depending on the DJ's preference. Unfortunately, the hit single comprised two of few originals on the album. The other tracks are mostly lighthearted pop regurgitations that fail to bring out the best of either singer. Vee Jay Records, who turned down "Hey Paula," had second thoughts and entered the fray with duets by Jerry Butler and Betty Everett.