About the Song
Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” – a song that needs no introduction for many of us. Released in 1971, it wasn’t just another catchy tune topping the charts. This soulful ballad became an anthem, a cry for understanding in a world seemingly on fire.
Remember those times? The Vietnam War raging on, social unrest simmering in the streets, and a sense of disillusionment settling in. Marvin Gaye, known for his smooth, romantic vocals, took a sharp turn with “What’s Going On.” He wasn’t singing about love and heartbreak anymore. He was asking questions, voicing the concerns of a generation.
The opening lines, sung in a pleading, almost conversational tone, draw you right in: “Mother, mother, there over shadows covering the earth” – a powerful image that sets the stage for the song’s message. Gaye isn’t pointing fingers or offering easy solutions. He’s simply asking, “What’s going on”* in a world filled with war, poverty, and pollution.
“What’s Going On” wasn’t just a hit song; it was a cultural touchstone. It resonated with people from all walks of life, a testament to the universality of its message. Even today, decades later, the song’s questions about war, poverty, and injustice continue to hold relevance. So, let’s revisit this classic, listen closely to Marvin Gaye’s powerful vocals, and reflect on the world he painted with his music.
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