What's Going On cover

What's Going On

Marvin Gaye · 1971

35 min · 9 tracks · funk · R&B · soul

A soulful blend of social consciousness and smooth melodies that captures the tumult of the early 1970s.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady reflective listening sessions
  • soulful emotional resonance
  • thought-provoking lyrical themes
  • consistent pacing throughout album

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on May 21, 1971, 'What's Going On' was Marvin Gaye's first album after a significant artistic pivot from Motown's pop-oriented sound. Prior to this, Gaye was primarily known for his work in the rhythm and blues genre, but this album marked his emergence as a socially conscious artist, shifting toward deeper themes inspired by contemporary issues.
Stylistic neighbors
Al Green· Otis Redding· Curtis Mayfield

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 What’s Going On 3:52
  • 2 What’s Happening Brother 2:43
  • 3 Flyin’ High (in the Friendly Sky) 3:49
  • 4 Save the Children 4:02
  • 5 God Is Love 1:41
  • 6 Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) 3:14
  • 7 Right On 7:31
  • 8 Wholy Holy 3:07
  • 9 Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) 5:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata