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.
Why this album works
'What's Going On' is widely regarded as one of the first concept albums in popular music, addressing themes like war, poverty, and environmentalism. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart and was included in numerous all-time greatest album lists, highlighting its profound influence on soul music and its relevance in social discourse.
- Best for
- steady reflective listening sessions soulful emotional resonance thought-provoking lyrical themes
- 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
- Harry Nilsson· Elvis Presley· Sparks· Nancy Sinatra· Willie Nelson· Cyndi Lauper· Dolly Parton· Cher
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 What’s Going On Standout 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) Standout 3:14
- 7 Right On 7:31
- 8 Wholy Holy 3:07
- 9 Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Standout 5:25
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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