Marvin Gaye – 'What’s Going On'
This album by Marvin Gaye is no stranger to me.
I’ve heard it that many times, I’d probably recognise it if it was played backwards.
As jackhammer as already pointed out, not only is this a personal milestone for the career of Marvin Gaye and his struggle with Motown for his creative freedom, but it was a watershed moment in the world of soul music.
Souls first concept album, 'What’s Going On' was a smooth side step away from the standard Motown beat and more importantly, completely different from what anyone else was doing at the time.
The album is a fusion of Isaac Hayes 'Hot Buttered Soul' (another ground breaking, must hear soul album) and the latest technical gadgetry of psychedelic rock.
'What’s Going On' took souls theme of love, with its cultural context and transferred it to the real world.
At a time of domestic and world conflict, Gaye's message is as powerful and poignant as anything Dylan was producing.
Previously, as far as Motown was concerned, soul music had channelled all its frustration, anger and hope into love songs.
Here on the title track and on 'Mercy, Mercy Me' the notion is stood on its head.
'Flyin' High' (In the Friendly Sky) makes turning on, tuning in and dropping out a holy sacrament.
'Wholy, Holy' the most spiritual and optimistic song on the album precedes 'Inner City Blues' (Make Me Wanna Holler) to end the album.
Its lyrics read like graffiti and Gaye's vocals blend the blues with gospel to produce a song that is as powerful today as it was then.
To fully understand and enjoy this album it's important to understand its place in music history.
Personally, I appreciate much more the contribution of the Funk Brothers, especially the genius bass playing of James Jamerson (whose bass lines cocoon this album beautifully throughout) to the vocals of Marvin Gaye any day.
Essential, even if dated.
^ Inner City Blues
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