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Distant Lover
The story behind the song
"Distant Lover" captures the ache of separation, a heartfelt plea from someone yearning for a love that's far away. It speaks to the promises made, like daily letters, that now feel like a fading hope as the singer longs for their lover to come back home. Marvin Gaye composed the melody for this song in 1970, fleshing out the lyrics with his sister-in-law, Gwen Gordy Fuqua. It first appeared on his 1973 album, Let's Get It On, and later, a live recording became a successful single. Playing this song means stepping into that deep, vulnerable space of missing someone profoundly.
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Distant Lover
by Marvin Gaye
Chords in this song · guitar
About Distant Lover Chords by Marvin Gaye
Learn how to play Distant Lover by Marvin Gaye with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “Distant Lover chords”, “Distant Lover guitar chords”, or “Marvin Gaye Distant Lover chords” and you will find this page — transpose to any key, tap chords for diagrams, and use auto-scroll while you play. Perfect for beginners looking for easy Distant Lover chords and for experienced players who want accurate Distant Lover lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include Gm, Em, A#m, Dm, Am, B.
FAQ — Distant Lover by Marvin Gaye
How do I play "Distant Lover" by Marvin Gaye on guitar?
Open the free chords for "Distant Lover" by Marvin Gaye on Free Chord Book. Tap any chord to see its diagram, use transpose to change the key, and turn on auto-scroll to play hands-free.
Are the chords for "Distant Lover" by Marvin Gaye free?
Yes. The chords for "Distant Lover" by Marvin Gaye are 100% free on Free Chord Book — no sign-up required.
Can I transpose "Distant Lover" to a different key?
Yes. Use the transpose buttons on the song page to shift "Distant Lover" up or down by half-steps so it matches your vocal range or capo position.
Can I see chord diagrams for "Distant Lover"?
Yes. Tap any chord in "Distant Lover" to instantly see an interactive guitar chord diagram with alternate fingerings.
Is "Distant Lover" easy to play on guitar?
Many players learn "Distant Lover" by Marvin Gaye with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Marvin Gaye below.
What key is "Distant Lover" in?
The chords for "Distant Lover" show the original chord names (including Gm, Em, A#m, Dm, Am, B). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.