The second American single from the album of duets by Diana Ross & Marvin Gaye - 'Diana & Marvin' (1973) - was the aching 'My Mistake (Was To Love You)'. Structurally and rhythmically it echoed Marvin and Tammi's 1967 classic 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'. Contagious, with its Motown-style arrangement, and a warm, relaxed harmonica interlude at the bridge of the song that injects a country feel, it also boasted strong performances from the singers. Diana's suitably refined vocal delivery blended beautifully with Marvin's more aggressive and forceful presentation. Originally this was intended to be the first extract from the project, but Berry Gordy held it back, instead preferring his own production, 'You're A Special Part Of Me'. Produced by Hal Davis, with songwriting credits by Pamela Sawyer and Gloria Jones (a renowned recording artist in her own right, most notably for the classic soul hit 'Tainted Love'), and an endearing arrangement courtesy of Dave Blomberg, this stunning ballad cracked the American chart at #19, climbing to #15 on the R&B listing. Yet once again in the UK it was ignored when released in October 1974.
Ian Phillips