Released in 1971, What's Going On was a game changer. Up until this record Marvin Gaye was a prolific hit maker for Motown Records. He had written or sung over 30 top 40 hits and was married to Motown Founder Berry Gordy's sister. However this was the first "political" record that Motown released, over Gordy's strong objections. It was very personal and introspective, as Gaye channeled his anger over poverty, racism and his objections to the Vietnam War. He was deeply influenced by his brother Frankie who was recently returned combat vet. Gaye was vindicated when the title track reached the number two spot in 1971, and both of the follow-ups, "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" and "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)," also reached the Top Ten. The album's success guaranteed Gaye continued artistic control over his work and helped loosen the reins for other Motown artists.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Marvin Gaye - What's Going On
Released in 1971, What's Going On was a game changer. Up until this record Marvin Gaye was a prolific hit maker for Motown Records. He had written or sung over 30 top 40 hits and was married to Motown Founder Berry Gordy's sister. However this was the first "political" record that Motown released, over Gordy's strong objections. It was very personal and introspective, as Gaye channeled his anger over poverty, racism and his objections to the Vietnam War. He was deeply influenced by his brother Frankie who was recently returned combat vet. Gaye was vindicated when the title track reached the number two spot in 1971, and both of the follow-ups, "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" and "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)," also reached the Top Ten. The album's success guaranteed Gaye continued artistic control over his work and helped loosen the reins for other Motown artists.
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