Gaye attended Cardozo High School and joined several doo-wop vocal groups, including the Dippers and the D.C. Tones.Template:Sfn Gaye's relationship with his father worsened during his teenage years as his father would kick him out of the house for what he perceived was misbehavior. Following an argument in which he stood up against his father, Gaye walked out of the house for good and dropped out of high school.Template:Sfn With dreams of being a pilot, 17-year-old Gaye enlisted in the United States Air Force as a basic airman.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn Disappointed in having to perform menial tasks, he faked mental illness and was discharged shortly afterwards.Template:Sfn Gaye's sergeant stated that he refused to follow orders.Template:Sfn