MARVIN GAYE

Prior to releasing the classic album, “What’s Goin’ On,” Marvin Gaye’s music consisted of a very polished collection of popular r&b and soul hits. “What’s Goin’ On” not only tackled genres that were new to Marvin Gaye’s sound, but the album’s lyrics also touched on social issues that were going on in the world during his time, including police brutality, poverty and the environment.

The title song of the album became a tremendous hit, and gave him great creative control over his career. Renaldo “Obie” Benson presented the song to Gaye after he witnessed violence in Berkley during a protest. When Marvin Gaye presented the song to Berry Gordy, Gordy was not fond of the song and refused to release it. Passionate about his music, Gaye refused to record any other material until Gordy allowed the single to be released. The album was very different from any other album released at this time. This concept album used major and minor seventh chords very strategically throughout the album. During this time, that was very uncommon.The studio musicians were able to create some of the best work of their career working on “What’s Going On.” The sound was very different than anything that was going on at the time. The music was dark and jazzy with heavy bass lines and rhythmic congas. At a time where Motown was primarily a hit making machine, this classic Marvin Gaye album stood out as an entire project worth recognition.

I’ve always been a fan of this album, it’s a classic. As a listener, I love the instrumentation. I feel that the musicians were just as in tune with the concept of the album as the lyricist. Hearing the album makes me feel that this was a well-oiled machine of creativity. As an industry professional, the album reminds me that there may be room for artists to touch a generation with music. This album was a musical conversation. There will always be issues going on, and music should be a way to genuinely discuss them and attach emotion behind civil issues.