Giraffes have a number of distinct characteristics. They have unique horns, remarkably tessellated coats and – of course – long, long necks. They aren’t, however, known for their singing voices. In fact, they are generally quiet and non-vocal creatures. Males will cough during mating seasons, and females bellow to their calves — who snort and bleat — but that is the extent of their noisemaking. In that case, it goes without saying that giraffes are not associated with impassioned renditions of Motown classics.
Unlike giraffes, Marvin Gaye is known for shaping to sound of Motown. One of his best known songs is “Let’s Get It On,” which was released in 1973. The song combines funky instrumentation with romantic and sexual lyrics, and was a number one hit. Although it catapulted Marvin Gaye to sex symbol status, it did not – as far as we know – turn him into a giraffe.
Or did it?
In this video, Marvin Gaye’s sexy croon emerges from the mouth of a giraffe (more accurately, a man dressed as a giraffe). From a toothy mouth and face, on top of a long, long, neck, the giraffe croons “I’ve been really tryin’, baby / Tryin’ to hold back this feeling for so long / And if you feel like I feel, baby / Then, c’mon, oh, c’mon, woo!” Some of the lyrics seem a little unconvincing coming from a giraffe. After all, can a giraffe really convincingly sing the lyrics “We’re all sensitive PEOPLE”? However, he does not let the species confusion tame his earnest lip-syncing, swaying and dancing.
What was the motivation behind this? Why would a grown man dress up as a giraffe? Why would a grown man dress up as a giraffe WHILE singing “Let’s Get It On?” We’re not sure. Sebastian Mayer, who posted the video, simply left the descriptor “Just a little something for all the lonely long-legged lovelies out there to help you start your week.” Regardless of its motivation, this video made us smile. SHARE the love and pass it on!