What's Going On

J - 3/5 Best Track - "What's Going On?" F - DNL

Nice album with a message that resounds today. Percussion on his works is always a centerpiece which I enjoy.

Ik kon hier erg goed naar luisteren, alles voelde erg zwoel aan en dat kon ik zeker goed gebruiken tijdens deze warme zomernachten. Er zijn niet echt nummers die er voor mij uitschieten. Wel leuke muziekelementen, zoals de fluit op right on.

Fijne muziek, sommige nummers zijn een beetje te Jesus-heavy voor mij.

What’s Going On and Mercy Mercy Me are amazing, but I find it hard to really connect with the other songs. They need some sort of hook or recognizability that the other two songs have

Good album. Love the transitions.

Hm, this gets a lot of praise but maybe this album just didn't click with me. Good musicality, Gaye is an icon, but the album was ok for me, 3*

A cool dude.

Really good album!

- super soulful ballads - jazzy elements - nice hand drum beats - easy to listen too and super catchy - no song that stood out in particular - „Inner Child“: probably favorite song

Kind of boring but nothing wrong with it

Good, languid tones, but it starts getting real preachy fast. I do feel like Gaye was trying to address the ills of the world in his own way, but perhaps looking back on it in 2025, it comes across as a bit sanctimonious.

Curiously it seems as though all the songs seamlessly transition, it makes for a nice uninterrupted listen. The sentiments of the songs are in the right place but not all the lyrics hit home, especially on save the children. Marvin has a great singing voice.

El disco tiene música genial, llena de soul y de ritmos envolventes. Obviamente me encanta la voz de Marvin Gaye, pero el álbum me pareció que tiene letras que un tanto flojas o más bien, no tanto lo que esperaba en un disco de soul y amor. Temas de religión, naturaleza, etc. que me sonaron más a querer quedar bien con algunos sectores que a predicar el dulce amor del soul.

Points for the undeniable talent on show. But the music does nothing for me

Good album, but a little too soft from time to time.

at it's best it's beautiful soul, but there are a few slow patches and it can feel a bit samey at times too.

I’ve tried hard over the years. It’s fine but not mine.

It is a decent record I guess but in no way can I connect with it. Too much love and jesus for my taste

Amazing voice and grooves, though didn't connect with a lot of the songs.. kind of like it more as background. Standouts: What's Going On, Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

I absolutely love a concept record, and this one is more relevant than ever, even if it was made some 50 years ago. The connections between each song are so beautiful and masterfully done, keeping the flow of the story clear in the listeners ears. The instrumentals were impeccable, fitting the tone of each song, but also the album as a whole, perfectly. I especially enjoyed the back and forth nature of the song "Save the Children," which provided an interesting but beautiful structure. The thing that held this album back for me was it's mellow and laid-back vibe, whereas I'm one who is partial to albums that pack an auditory punch. For this reason, I at times felt bored or out of touch to the album if I weren't to be actively the lyrics. This doesn't mean it isn't a great album, I just appreciate something a little louder and more aggressive. Overall, this was great. 3/5 stars

Fave track: Mercy mercy me. Would I revisit this: no.

Cinquante-quatre ans après sa sortie en mai 1971, "What's Going On" de Marvin Gaye demeure une oeuvre d'une pertinence saisissante, un chef-d'oeuvre qui a non seulement redéfini la musique soul, mais a également offert une chronique sociale et politique d'une Amérique en pleine mutation. Cet album concept, porté par la voix suave et poignante de Gaye, reste une écoute essentielle, un voyage musical et émotionnel qui transcende les générations. Dès les premières notes de la chanson-titre, "What's Going On", on est enveloppé par une atmosphère à la fois douce et mélancolique. Les arrangements orchestraux luxuriants, mêlant cordes, cuivres discrets et percussions subtiles, créent un écrin sonore d'une richesse inouïe. La production, assurée par Marvin Gaye lui-même, est d'une finesse remarquable, chaque instrument trouvant sa place avec une clarté et une chaleur qui servent magnifiquement le propos. C'est une rupture stylistique audacieuse avec le son Motown plus calibré pour les hits radio auquel le public était habitué de la part de l'artiste. L'album se déroule comme une suite de réflexions, une conversation intime et universelle. Marvin Gaye, inspiré notamment par le retour de son frère Frankie du Vietnam et par les troubles sociaux qui secouaient les États-Unis, abandonne les thèmes romantiques habituels pour aborder des sujets graves et urgents. La guerre du Vietnam, la pauvreté, les inégalités raciales, la brutalité policière, la toxicomanie et, de manière pionnière, l'écologie, sont au cœur de ses préoccupations. Ce qui frappe à l'écoute de "What's Going On", c'est la manière dont les chansons s'enchaînent de manière fluide, créant une narration continue. Les transitions sont soignées, les motifs musicaux se répondent, renforçant l'impression d'une oeuvre unifiée, d'une véritable symphonie soul. La voix de Marvin Gaye, multiple, capable de passer d'un falsetto éthéré à des intonations plus graves et directes, est l'instrument principal de cette narration. Il ne chante pas seulement, il témoigne, il interroge, il supplie. En conclusion, "What's Going On" n'est pas seulement le meilleur album de Marvin Gaye ; c'est l'un des albums les plus importants et les plus touchants du XXe siècle. C'est un appel à la compassion, à la réflexion et à l'action, porté par une musique d'une beauté transcendante. Un 3 sur 5 pour un album majeur.

# 479 : What's Going On : 13/05/2025 It’s decent. A couple classic bangers, and a great soul album, but there is a good amount of filler in there as well. Not sure why it's ranked as number 1, or why there is so much hype, more for it's importance I guess than it actually sounding good. Lack of transition between songs made this album drag on into one big boring mash. Title track was the best for mind. Number 1 in Rolling Stones 500 Greatest Albums of All Time! Number 17 in Apple Music 100 Best Albums

I actually don’t rate this album, at least within his body of work. IITA here?

3 stars Feels controversial because this was listed as the #1 album of all time by Rolling Stone. And maybe I’m ignorant. I like the title track and generally like the album. But it’s more of a vibe than an album and it feels one note that is a good note but still just that. I wanted to get it and like it more than I did, but playing it through a handful of times maintained my feeling.

Good but underwhelming. I like the strings, background sax, flute, and the atmospheric vibes. The vocals are strong. Nothing particularly piques my interest though.

Vibing to this. No standout tracks on first listen

great but not the best

At first I thought this might be a 1 (just because of the genre?) but I do not hate it, it could be playing in the background.

Chilled soul but no standouts

Gaye tackles a variety of social, political, and racial topics throughout this record. You can hear the anguish in his voice. Timeless, in a somewhat chilling way.

Oooh hello Marvin okay let's go. Marvin another guy that I've listened to THE HITS and I love them, but I don't think I've ever really listened to an album front-to-back. Something I'm really appreciating about this 1001 albums exercise is that I am very much a SINGLES guy. I listen to SONGS, and rarely listen to ALBUMS. I think it's because I crave the vibe shift, the mood shift, eclectic arrangements, etc. It's nice to commit to a mood or vibe of an album for 30+ minutes, and need to do it more often in my casual listening habits. Inner City Blues Make Me Wanna Holler > Right On > What's Going On > Mercy Mercy Me The Ecology > Save the Children > What's Happening Brother > God Is Love > Flying High In The Friendly Sky > Wholy Holy These animations that Spotify has linked to every track on this album are annoying as hell. Who told the music streaming industry that songs need looping animations attached to them, they are so annoying especially when it's retroactively added to an album from 1971. Get over yourself. But that is not Marvin's fault. This album is p good. I didn't like how earnest it was at first then it really grew on me haha. I do agree we need to get together and work together and save the children. I agree with you Marvin! We should love one another! I don't think any song really slapped me in the heart, though. Maybe "Make me wanna holler, throw up my hands" on the last track, that lyric made me go "Oh hellooo" and then all the vocal vamping in the back half. That track the standout gem for me, but overall this album is all perfectly fine, but is it GREAT? It doesn't seem to be the case. It's prob a high 3 I think, not quite cracking a 4? Maybe it's a low 4? It's riding that edge.

I like how the songs blended into each other. But not a big fan.

Only words like lustrous and sublime apply here. Rich, deep, silken sounds dripping with soul. Maximalist Motown production sweet and smooth like honey. I could listen to Marvin sing the phone book - in fact that would be pretty cool.

I liked this, kinda repetitive but that’s ok! He knows what he does best

Marvin Gaye is a man of many questions

Couldn’t really get into it. Not really my thing.

Critics love this album. I find it boring.

An alright album.

The threat the children are facing in "Save the Children" is too nebulous and undefined. Save them from what, exactly? What's going on? What's happening brother? An okay album overall.

Too religious and a little too mellow for me, but it’s still pretty good. Marvin sounds great and keeps things simple (none of the pretentious vibrato that some soul music has), and there are some solid sax parts in a few songs.

Meh. Het is wel goed, maar het is ook duidelijk dat het niet voor mij gemaakt is

Didn't really hit like the reputation would suggest. 3/5, nothing bad, but songs toward the start ran together too much for me

3.5

I didn't like this as much as I expected to. The title track is great, but the rest of it all blurred together for me.

Smoooooooooooooooth

A great opening song but the rest is just average in my opinion. 3 stars or C.

I like this album because it sounds very classical. The meaning behind the lyrics are very interesting.

i like the songs i like the beat i like how he sounds . But i think all the songs sound the same . i guess i recomend it

the first song i like sounds good it sounds like my style of music and the backround music is not that much so i like the lyrics i dont really like. so i give it 3

The first song started off good his voice is actually good and the lyrics are good. I can only understand a few of them but from what i can hear it sounds good the background music is good. the second song is good ig its like something his voice is good and the background music is good but its kinda sounds weird

Why is he in the rain? I thought "What's Going On" was okay. I thought the singing voice was strange but the music was good. "Mercy Mercy Me" was also okay. I like the lyrics because they deliver a good message but the music and singing aren't the best. "Inner City" was the best. The music and singing were better. I would not recommend this album.

the first song is okay I don't really like it that much there is not much to say about it. the next song is also kinda the same there is also not much to say about it it is okay. the last song is still the same there is not much to say about it either. overall I don't really like the album.

What is he looking at on the album cover? I thought "What's going on" was pretty good. It wasn't anything special but it wasn't bad. It sounded kind of older because of how slow the song was but it wasn't too slow that it wasn't enjoyable. "Mercy mercy me" was also pretty good. I liked the lyrics and the message through the song. It was the same kind of slow as the song before. "Inner city blues" was the same as the other two. Not bad but not the best song I've ever heard. I would rate this album a good four stars and I would reccomend this album for anyone to try because you never know if your going to like it unless you try.

The songs are composed well, and I can appreciate the historical context. Lyrically, it's interesting, especially given the concept Gaye focuses everything on. Maybe it's just my taste, or maybe I wasn't in the right mood for it, but I'm not especially impressed by it on a first listen. Certainly not enough to deem it one of the greatest albums ever. It's all listenable, but it also fades into the background after a while. Perhaps I'll circle back to it later to see if I feel differently, but for now at least I've heard it.

Grooves, vibes, and honest beauty. Obviously opening with WHAT'S GOING ON might go down as one of greatest album openers. My album highlights are MERCY MERCY ME (THE ECOLOGY), INNER CITY BLUES (MAKE ME WANNA HOLLER)

3.5 - fantastically made album just not really my style and the lyrics didn’t resonate with me

3/5

Some of these songs are magical. Others are just a bit too much "talking" singing, and I really don't like that.

Classic

"Who's willing to save a world that is destined to die?" I think I need to give this a re-listen. Not because it's not good (I think it's a wonderful album), but because I probably didn't appreciate it enough to understand why it's considered one of the greatest. I will say this, however, that the production of this album is gorgeous. It doesn't go a volume too high or too low. And, obviously, Marvin Gaye's vocals are unmatched. Hidden instruments, background voices, connecting songs — they're the blueprints that inspired the greatest albums of today, from Frank Ocean's Blonde to Kdot's TPAB. Again, I just think I need to give this a re-listen. Maybe it was the lyrics? It lacked poetry? I don't know.

Nothing much, how about you?

There’s no denying the cultural importance of What’s Going On. It’s a landmark soul album with a social conscience, smooth arrangements, and Marvin Gaye’s signature velvet voice tying it all together. But as an actual listening experience? It doesn’t quite hit me the way it seems to hit others. The grooves are mellow and often beautiful, but they can also blend together a bit too easily, making the album feel a little samey by the halfway point. The lyrics are thoughtful and heartfelt, tackling war, poverty, and environmental concerns with sincerity, but musically it stays in one gentle gear—never really lifting off or surprising. Songs like the title track and Mercy Mercy Me stand out, but the rest can drift past without leaving a strong impression. It’s an album I respect a lot more than I truly enjoy, and while it’s undeniably well made and meaningful, it doesn’t quite move me enough to call it great.

Too happy for me, if that's a legitimate critic. I feel like it totally is. In every single song I feel the need for a progression that highlights a major chord turning minor. But Marvin Gaye is no Shmulik Kraus. It's a good album, but it's not something I'll choose to put on. I'll choose The High Windows (very very weird how I decided to compare these two albums that have absolutely 0 correlation. And, well, that's exactly why I did.) I now read the description of the album on the site. Oh! I guess I didn't listen to the words haha... apply my review to the music solely (don't. He could've still made a "Soldat De Chocolate"...)

Couple huge hits. Pretty good music.

Another good Marvin Gaye album. I think I like this one a bit better than Let's Get It On. 3.25/5

Mr Gaye is pretty good, but just not really my style. I enjoyed this ok, but overall I'm not feeling like putting this back on. 3/5

Definitely not an album made for me to hear. It definitely has it moments but not something that I enjoy nor really like to hear. Probably for who it refers and what it tries to do it's fantastic but yeah. I would give it around a 6/10.

Most songs I knew. I wasn’t as impressed as I thought I would be

Well, I guess it’s time for me to admit I don’t really like this album very much. It’s overproduced, overorchestrated, and most of the songs kind of float around and don’t go anywhere. The sociopolitical messaging is doing a lot of heavy lifting.

Good album - some classics.

Funky, soulful, iconic, a slice of history that should be paid attention to (because it seems we're entering that kind of time again). What's going on? What's happening brother? What's happening my man? Who the fuck even knows? And who's going to do anything about it? I appreciate these kind of messages and these albums. But they can get preachy. It's a fine line to walk. A whole album of this isn't necessarily something I'd want to return to much. I like the song segues. It makes the whole project seem like a complete movement. This is the definition of an album-composed and thought out Bangers-What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, God is Love, Mercy Mercy Me, Inner City Blues Skip-Right On, Wholly Holy

I like this but it’s far from the best album ever made (if the Rolling Stone top 500 list is to be believed). No album can be at the top of any list if one of its songs is “Save the Children”. But if you listen to the amazing title track and it gets you amped up, you can get absorbed in this albums unique sound n’ vision for the brisk run time. Standouts: “What’s Going On”, “Right On”, “Inner City Blues” Outside homework: The Strokes cover of “Mercy Mercy Me”

Meh hab ma mehr erwartet

Was excited to listen to this full album, but came away a little underwhelmed. Some really good highs, but overall, came away feeling like it all blended together and wasn’t super memorable.

Sehr entspannend, aber nichts zum einfach so hören

It was fine. It sounded like Marvin Gaye. Other than that I don't really remember much about it. I didn't even realize when the album looped because it all just blended together.

Solid...though not really my cup of tea.

Classic. Beautiful, though doesn't touch the magic of Stevie Wonder's Innervisions.

I preferred this to Let's Get It On but I'm not vibing with Marvin Gaye. Favourite Track: Added to Playlist: 'What's Happening Brother'

3 really good songs. The rest is meh 1001 album worthy: Yes - 47/83

The popular tracks are popular for a reason- great songs. Deep with significance to the political climate of the time. The more obscure tracks are obscure for a reason also. Something about a jazz flute solo that just sends me to a dark place.

What’s Going On? Honestly, not much.

I made the choice to read a review of this album before posting my own, and it cements my quandary. This is hailed as Gaye's "masterwork, the most perfect expression of an artist's hope, anger, and concern ever recorded." And somehow, I have always been left feeling like this is an album whose songs are somewhat indistinguishable from one another. Gaye's vocals are silken, his sentiments raw, the arrangements impeccable, yet the material — as I hear it — all blends together in a sultry vibe, which seems at odds with the bold statement this album is. So... I feel like an imposter that I don't find the album as life-altering as other listeners and critics. It's cited as "the best work of [the Funk Brothers] careers," the moment Gaye stopped being an R&B sex symbol and became a true artist, and the "most important and passionate record to come out of soul music." I simply hear sweet vocals and sexy grooves and one long song.

It’s pretty good but it’s not my style of music.

Marvin being Marvin. What a cool album. Marvin has a relaxed, smooth and seemingly effortless delivery.

Classic and great

This album has powerful moments and some good songs. I can see why it's considered important. It's got beautiful sounds. There's a lot of emotion here and it makes me feel a lot when I'm listening. But the songs aren't truly grabbing me, they aren't changing me. Which is a shame I think.

so this is the new No.1 in the 2020 version of the 500 greatest album of all time? Funny. The only reason that I can see that made the critics put this, instead of “Sgt.Peppers” on top, is that it is an album of PROTEST SONGS. AND ITS SO OVERRATED. 3/5

Basically one long, connected recording where each track bleeds into the next. What's Going On Mercy Mercy Me Right On (a rare moment with a distinct change of feel from.the previous track)

I enjoyed the feel of this, except for the multiple songs about God. I also didn't care for the spoken word followed immediately by singing those same words.

I like hygge vibey. Lidt for meget af det hele intet der virkelig fangede mig. 3

Repetitive music. But good songs.

Soooorry I let you down und hab einfach keine (fun) facts für Afrika bambaataa geliefert. Aber danke Timon für die Wertschätzung 🫶. Dafür wird jetzt hier nachgeliefert, weil die wichtigsten Infos zu Marvin Gayes wildem Leben hab ich ja schon beim ersten Album zusammengetragen. Jetzt zu Afrika Bambaataa: Er und p Diddy haben wohl leider eine Sache gemeinsam - nicht so geil. Ansonsten check ich auch nicht, wieso er das Album Planet Rock nennt, wenn er bekannt für seine "Genre defining electro tracks" ist, die auch noch vom hip hop beeinflusst sind. Jaaa ansonsten wird er halt noch als father of hip hop bezeichnet und war Begründer der Universal Zulu Nation, die schon sehr cool klingt. Die haben sich dann von ihm abgewendet, als die sexual abuses allegations gegen ihn aufkamen. Macht sie noch sympathischer.

Better background music to be honest…

Is it safe to say I was disappointed? It seemed like he was working with rough drafts on some of these songs. The ones where he locked in though… masterpieces.

This is a great soul album and Marvin is a marvelous singer. That said, I am not at all a fan of the genre - but props to the talent, work, and accomplishment.

Not interesting to me

Da ist eine Menge Soul zu hören. love it

This album by Marvin Gaye is definitely in the same vein as Let's Get It On and Here, My Dear. Similar style, same emotions rising up in the air,great vocal and quite boring overall package. I didn't find anything interesting on What's Going On, just few average to solid tracks and I don't remember any of them few hours after listening to the whole record. I'm a bit surprised this is the most famous album by Marvin - it feels like he was getting better over the next releases. This one, in comparison, was pretty average.

Smoot music, but onlythree stars.

Super nice rhythms/melodies throughout. Marvin Gaye has a very significant voice in soul music and the 1970s. I think even when I wasn't 100% hooked on a song from this tracklist, the importance of this project maintains a high score. Overall a nice display of cool and important messages, with good vocals, production and rhythm. (7/10)

Nice and chill. 6/10

There's some really great material here including the title track, but some really tedious religious stuff too. Great overall soul style, though.

It was ok. I think it’s a great body of work but not something I would have on repeat.

I wanted to like it more that I really did. I love me some soul music but this just did not connect with me

What the hell is going on with the animations on Spotify for this album. There’s like a T. Rex on God is Love? Like what? Anyway. This is fine. It doesn’t really click with me? It’s fine. The hits are good. But it’s a little preachy in a way that doesn’t accomplish anything. Yeah sure love and all that woo.

Pretty good, not really exemplary.

Nice classic

Pretty consistent album, nothing spectacular but Marvin's voice is really good

6/10 I get why people love this. What's going on is a great song. The rest of the album put me to sleep. Can't when them all 12-21-2024

I feel like I should like this more but there are some pretty bad songs on here.

Short, sweet and sultry

Really cool sociopolitical commentary - not my style of music at all though. I get why it’s a classic but not for me!

Easy classic

No es de mi total gusto, prefiero a Barry White

Chill vibes

The whole album a bit too one paced for me, seems to be 2-3 good songs and the rest filler. Concept album. 3 stars

Catchy as hell, but very, very Jesusy.

God this feels like sacrilege. It’s just… it’s sounds like very same-y songs with good lyrics and a very cool suite-like theme of the songs blending into one another for at least most of the album. And that’s it. I’m sure I’m in the wrong here. This isn’t even my first Marvin Gaye album! I had Here My Dear (AKA the divorce album) and I gave that four stars! Am I just having an off day? What’s wrong with me? Am I malfunctioning?

Joya absoluta. Disco imprencindible. Otros discos del 71: Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin IV, David Bowie - Hunky Dory, The Rolling Stones - Sticky Fingers, The Who - Who's Next, Don Mclean- American Pie, John Lennon – Imagine, T. Rex - Electric Warrior, Sly and the Family Stone - There's a Riot Goin' On, The Allman Brothers Band - At Fillmore East, Nick Drake - Bryter Layter, Can - Tago Mago, Black Sabbath - Master of Reality, Rod Stewart - Every Picture Tells a Story, Carole King - Tapestry, Leonard Cohen - Songs of Love and Hate, Paul and Linda McCartney - Ram, Funkadelic - Maggot Brain Flamin' Groovies - Teenage Head, Faces - A Nod Is As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse, The Doors - L.A. Woman, The Beach Boys - Surf's Up RORY GALLAGHER - Deuce, NINA SIMONE - Here comes the sun, IKE & TINA TURNER - Workin' together, BADFINGER - Straight up ,Jethro Tull - Aqualung, Janis Joplin - Pearl, David Crosby - If I Could Only Remember My Name, Pete Dello and Friends - Into your ears, Santana - Santana III Gene Clark - Gene Clark/White Light, Van Morrison - Tupelo Honey Joni Mitchell- Blue, Nilsson - Nilsson Schmilsson, Elton John - Madman Across the Water, Al Green-Al Green Gets Next to You, Kevin Ayers – Whatevershebringswesing, Sixto Rodriguez - Coming From Reality...

A good, cohesive and heartfelt album with a smooth and soulful sound. I'm not sure I'll be going back to it very often though, it's not really for me at this point in my life.

This is basically impossible to hate, but I feel like I'm going to hell for not truly loving it - it's just alright. I think that mostly comes from the fact that I find like 99% of soul very samey. Nothing here really stands out music-wise. Great rainy day vibes though.

Solid album, but just not my vibe. I can greatly respect the technical ability, but I will be rating it based on my enjoyment. I enjoyed the title track a lot, along with Mercy Mercy Me.

Artist, album, title song & album cover that everyone knows and has long been considered a Top 1001 album in the pantheon of music. I've been told the album encapsulated the tension and times for not only black America but for 1970's America. Classic title track, the message is strong but the groove is relaxed not political. There's definitely a theme and continuity throughout this album. \"Wake up and listen to the people\" is what I'm hearing. The next highlight was \"Mercy Mercy Me\", which is such an iconic track & my favorite on this album. Strong finish with \"Inner City Blues\" which is the funky MG sound that was missing from much of this album. Some of the songs felt wordy, the message was overpowering the melody & standard songwriting/hit making. \"Save The Children\" is a prime example, I had a hard time listening to that one. \"Right On\" is a close second. The spiritual/religious overtones aren't my thing either. Overall, it's a good album. I understand its significance & influence on artists to follow & the cultural impact it had. Just not quite a masterpiece for me.

Ja ganz okay, nicht so verführerisch wie dad andere Gaye Album. Songs der Playlist hinzugefügt: keine

Soul, 1971 -> 3

molto piacevole.. si fa ascoltare

I kind of like What’s Happening Brother, God Is Love; I almost like Right On

Not my taste.

This was fine, but it made me want to go to sleep.

It was fine, solid 3.

It was really easy to listen to. I liked "Mercy Mercy Me" the most, it's a solid entry on this list.

Who doesn't like Marvin Gaye?

I like this album, although I don't think I'd really make a point to listen to it much. A good album to throw on in the background for a chill cocktail party. I feel like this album might be a bit overrated, it's not spectacular but it's certainly enjoyable. I don't really find myself focusing on it much though, just sort of letting it pass in the background. Inner City Blues is probably my favorite from this record, I've always really loved that song (that bass!). All in all a solid album but maybe not one I like as much as everyone says I should. 3/5

Cool 70s record.

At times a bit too smooth

Chill album, musically. Has some interesting political messages woven into it. Overall might be too relaxed for me, though.

Obviously have heard of Marvin but haven’t ever really listened to him. His voice is so beautiful and I love the easy going vibe. Save the children is def my favorite song. Again not my style but am glad I listened!

Didn’t really love this album, but I didn’t really have any issues with it either.

you can bet on him

I generally liked it. It' smooth and enjoyable

Obviously great

good album, excellent bass lines

icon… only 3 stars tbh because sonically only a couple of tracks really stood out to me and i’m currently voting based purely off initial listening experience and not any critical thought - it was fun realising i’d listened to half of the album already and i hadn’t registered any of the songs starting and finishing because it all flows so seamlessly into each other and a lot of the tracks reference other tracks. “what’s going on” and “mercy mercy me” are the only two i knew before this and remain as 2 of the most solid tracks from this!! also loved “inner city blues”

Wanted to rate this higher than 3 stars but ultimately just wasn’t really feeling it. Some good songs but not too many that really stood out as great. Probably a 3.2 rounded down to 3 stars.

A very chilled album and easy to listen to.

I quite like the music. I particularly liked What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me and Inner City Blues. But I probably wasn't in the right mood when I heard it. In this respect, the rating is worse than it might have been at another time. 3/5

I have no logical reason to dislike this album. The band is as smooth as they come, the lyrics are strong and topical, and Marvin’s vocals border on legendary. Yet for some reason, I found myself somewhat impatient for it to be over and I don’t think I will look this up in my “free time.”

Given I was just expecting some awful 70s sex music, this was alright. I never knew ‘What’s going on’ was a protest song, nor that the Motown/Soul was a vehicle for that. No reason why it couldn’t be, guess that just shows my naivety. Anyway, I preferred the second half of the album, which was funkier and ‘Right on’ was the standout for me. Tbh I think I just liked the backing band, Gaye is OK but I’m just not a soul man.

I've heard the name "Marvin Gaye" mentioned many times in my life but never really listened to any. This made me pretty interested in listening to this album, which is also supposed to be one of his biggest commercial success. However I mostly just found myself a bit bored by the music and like the lyrics were preaching to me Standouts - 3/5

Eh

Probably a bad take, but I remember these songs feeling unremarkable.

Classic. Put on some Marvin Gaye and Chardonnay

Met het eerste nummer stappen we gelijk de jaren '70 in. We worden overmand door een heerlijk gevoel van nostalgie. De titeltrack verdient absoluut 5 sterren. Maar vervolgens pruttelt Marvin nog ruim een half uur na en gaat het album als een nachtkaars uit. Het hoogtepunt zit in de eerste 4 minuten, de rest kunnen we vergeten. Een vergeetbare 3 dus.

With the feeling that this is a landmark album that requires appreciation I listened to it yet again. Not my first time by any means, but same result. Bored. Conclusion is something is wrong with me.

This is probably heresy but I thought this was just fine. Lovely playing but weirdly low energy for a protest album. Some tracks were a bit meandering but I really enjoyed What's Going On and Mercy Mercy Me

I enjoy old soul and funk... I should love this, and I do - in places. There's something about Marvin Gaye that just doesn't gel for me. Maybe it's the hype around him that taints the music for me. I just don't think he's *that* good. That said, I like how the album is stitched together. It does feel like a cohesive experience.

It is good. Sounds a bit dated and has lots of the cliches of the time but it’s a good timestamp too.

#343. I feel like I should like this more than I do. Maybe I should have drank more yesterday, this seems like it would be nice hangover music. 3/5: acceptable

Wasn't paying full attention to this but it sounded like Marvin Gaye. Reading the wiki blurb it would appear I missed the themes of album entirely but in my defense he delivered his thoughts on the Vietnam war in exactly the same style as his thoughts about getting it on. He's probably the best soul singer I'd think but I'm not a particular fan of the genre. 2.5.

Soul

This was fine. It was cool to learn that it was a concept album about coming home from the war. Just not my genre of music.

I preferred Mavin Gaye's other album I reviewed a while ago. But I still like this one. The first two tracks were great and the others are nice. It's been a fortnight since I gave an album more than 3 stars. So I can't to see what Monday brings. 3 stars for "What's Going On?".

Smooth as butter, but I can't imagine a scenario where I would play any of these songs apart from a date-night playlist where I'm hoping to get lucky. I guess for that alone it deserves a 3.

mitä vittua tapahtuu??? olin yllättynyt, että en ole aikaisemmin kuullut tätä erittäin tunnettua laulua.. tai ehkä se vaan on yllättävän unohdettava. koko albumi on vähän samanlainen. monet samoihin aikoihin julkaistut soul-teokset ovat tähän mennessä iskenyt paljon kovempaa.. lyriikat eivät vaan osu jos ei ole tarvittavaa musiikkia takana. en sanonut että on huono prkll... en sanonut että huono mitä vittua tapahtuu... jaaha hyökkää köyhälistö... ei saa olla eri mieltä jaha tervetuloa 2024.... mitä tapahtuu... inner city blues

This is like a famous record. But it doesn't do all that much for me. I mean, it's not bad. Bass lines are fun. Background is fine. Marvin can sing. But somehow it doesn't add up to anything super impactful for me. I guess it never really feels like it's going anywhere.

Quite classy. I understand this to be one of the most critically-acclaimed albums of all time. I think I’ll need to give it a few more spins with some introspective analysis to truly appreciate it though.

Pretty gooooood. It occurred to me that the track titles works as a conversation with a very concerned man... what's happening brother? What's going on?! Mercy Mercy Me! Wholy Holy!!! GOD IS LOVE. SAVE THE CHILDREN!!!!

3.4 stars

Something hits just right with Marvin Gaye in the morning. Sweet, soulful voice, singing with conviction. I like that this album isn’t a super romantic vibe, but more about humanity and doing better together. Listen again: yes Purchase for my collection: probably Favourite Song: Save the Children

Kinda feels like a gentle conversation. The themes are deep, but the sound is smooth. It’s a bit like Curtis Mayfield’s work but with more introspection. The grooves are easy to get lost in, though it can feel repetitive at times.

Here’s What’s Going On; it’s the sleepiest way to increase public awareness of any topic. I’ve heard a few of these songs for decades and wasn’t aware of any message other than Marvin’s got a mellow groove. Maybe you had to listen to the entire album to get the message, which didn’t happen until now. 1001 list works again! This one comes in at (3.5*s)

Not my usual thing, but quite liked it

Nice soul album with two great tracks What's going on and Mercy Me

6.5/10

Sweet soul music, the kind of soul music I can groove with. It's quite a pleasant album, easy to listen to, no skippers. However, there are no real bangers that stand out from the rest here, no songs I'll save to my discovery playlist, no songs about which I can say "This is a banger". Easy 6/10, which means 3 stars.

I didn’t like this as much as I thought it would

6/10 - It was alright. The first two songs had the exact same message but different words. It was almost like he just took the lyrics of the first song and put it through google translate a couple of times and called it a new song. The other songs did not really stick out to me

3.5

It here a a couple of great songs in here. Most of the songs on this album sound alike.

Really not impressed, but given the magnitude of the album at the time, I feel bad giving it a 2.

2,5

"What´s Going On" and "Mercy, Mercy Me" are the best known songs from this album. Great voice. Soulful music. But not exacly my jam. Favourite: "Right On" 3,5

Bien, normal.

3/9, 33%

Classic soulful album. Lots of themes of love and getting together in piece. Kind of ironic there's some lines about his dad. Who ended up you know, uhh shooting him. A little too much Jesus for me

I dont have much of an opinion on it. Wasnt my type of music but it wasnt bad by any means. Giving it a 3/5 only for the amazing basslines though.

Probably closer to a 3.5 but whatevers.

Soul/gospel/jazz. Legal mas um pouco meloso

Pretty good but not quite to the point where I'll buy the album.

Great voice, but I was never a really big Marvin Gaye fan. Most of these songs are a little "free-flowing" for my taste. But - still - great voice and superb musicianship.

Not too bad, easy listening tunes

Overall a good time with some great vocals (which you expect from Mr Marvin Gaye), fun jazz beats, and chilled atmosphere

Marvin has so much stuff goin on man. The world is out to get him and it makes me feel like its out to get me. Makes me sleepy tho

I was underwhelmed given all the notariaty.

When my dog attacked an armadillo in the yard at 4:00 am I ran outside shouting "What's going on?!!" and that was a lot more chaotic then this album. Great bass though.

Great! includes Mercy Mercy Me.

It was alright. A bit too slow for my taste. Its anti-war stance was interesting and was like half the songs on the album. Neat to listen to but just not into it I guess

Way too sickly sweet. I also had What's Up? by 4 Non Blondes stuck in my head the entire time and kept getting annoyed it wasn't coming on.

While I like the message, I do not necessarily like the music.

-I was not expecting Marvin Gaye to send me into an existential crisis about the world and its future -We love a good “we live in a society” album but with a positive spin -I really like the background drumming a lot of the songs have and the way they melt into each other, it gives it a very cohesive feel -Favorites are What’s Happening Brother and Inner City Blues

Sehr schnulzig

It's fine I guess. I just couldn't really get into it. It's not bad though.

Don't rlly care

Very high 3

High 3. Better than Princes Androgynous ass

I like it, I don’t love it

Bien, normal.

Ok, jaz not my style but no bad

This was not as good as I was expecting. That's not to say I didn't like it. Sucks what happened to my man. What a shame. Inner City Blues was probs my fav track.

Soothing!

STANDOUTS: What's Going On OVERALL: 3/5

I didn't get this album unlike so many others. It's culturally significant,but musically meh. Too religious for my liking.

It's hard to rate an album like this simply because the three big songs, What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) and Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) are GREAT, truly classic songs. But the other six tracks feel like they would have been part of the extended singles of those hits or filler.

Classic, but not really my thing.

I'm sorry, I try not to play the " all sounds the same" game, but boy do the first six tracks sound like a medley. Sur the production is top notch and it's a complicated piece of R&B, but it still comes down to the quality of a Man's voice, and sure this is high quality, but I/we need more

Hmmm. Well, firstly, the fact it’s a near-continuous suite of music, with a cohesive message to boot, is right up my street. But the music itself isn’t really up my street; it meanders in a pleasant but slightly boring way. I don’t even enjoy the 3 standout singles *that* much, really. Lyrically, I find it well-meaning but ultimately a bit… fluffy? Probably unfair as the topics of addiction, poverty etc are heavy, and at any rate a pure-hearted ‘c’mon guys let’s all be better, yeah?!’ is exactly what’s called for sometimes. But it does feel a bit like a dumbed-down Sunday school sermon a lot of the time (or so I imagine, I never went). I’m trying to justify scoring this higher, but then again if I'd listened without knowing it was considered a GOAT candidate, I’d probably give it three stars and move on, so…

Very earnest but goes down easy.

Great voice for cozy songs

Lovely.

It grew on me a bit over time, but I thought the first half was pretty mid. It kind of came across as music for a charity concert for a while. I did enjoy the last few songs.

Why can't the entire album sound like Inner City Blues. Still a decent album though, great lyrics.

Vraiment spécial, à réécouter.

3-4

Smooth easy listen album. 3.5 stars for me

Lots more jazzy than I expected. Not much jumps out at me beyond the singles, but I respect the craft and intention that clearly went into this album and can see why it was a critical success.

Meh. All OK songs. One famous. Maybe I feel better about it because the songs can be used for hand dancing music

Funky and smooth listen. Quite enjoyed it

Yeah this was definitely a cool album. I’m not sure it I’ll ever go back to it in the future but it’s definitely worth a listen to.

Tolle Stimme. Ein bisschen Kitsch ab und zu ist ja ok.

Some great tracks, but not enough to get a 4 from me

Smooth maybe too smooth. 3 stars

Some of the tracks kind of blend together. But it’s smooth and his voice is great. Activism with a gospel bend. Playlist choice: Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

Marvinin ääni on hunajaa vaikka tämän levyn matsku on semisti pliisua, ainakin omaan korvaan. Niukasti taipuu kolmoseen.

Marvin takaa laatua. Toimiva kokonaisuus. Solidi kolmonen

Silky smooth voice but it's just 1 long song.

Bien, normal.

This is the first time I've heard the entire album, though I know the big hit songs. I actually thought all the songs sounded more or less the same, but I like the sound.

Solid

Love his voice and groovy style. Great messages about war and society too. It does kind of sound like one big long song though.

I was underwhelmed to be honest

I guess I'm a philistine but I found What's Going On super overrated. It's not awful, but Rolling Stone's No1 album of ALL TIME? Things I liked: his voice, arrangements (e.g. the jazzy elements and strings), bravery. It must have been pretty ground breaking to have a black man saying these things in 1971 Things I thought weren't worth the hype: some of the lyrics.. yes it's political but it's not all that hard hitting? Save the children, love will win, people should come together, Jesus left us something to believe in... Not a great deal of substance here. The first two tracks are basically just saying lots of things are bad without really having a great deal to add. The other thing I didn't like is I was pretty bored listening to it. The tempo is all kinda middling and the tone is quite dour. Even listened twice to make absolutely sure I didn't find it as good as the critics and I don't.

6/10 nice and vibey but not.much more for me

Still a 3 for Marvin. Some bangers, but it felt like it had a bunch of filler for only being 35 minutes long. Good vibes though as always.

In its historical, socio-political context I understand how this was an important record, but it doesn’t really seem to deviate from a single musical motif the entire album.

Some consider this to be the best album of all time. So I started off with high expectations, but unfortunately it didn't do much for me... 2.5/5

What’s Going On (Marvin Gaye) 1. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) 2. What’s Happening Brother 3. What’s Going On 4. God is Love 5. Flyin’ High (In the Friendly Sky) 6. Right On 7. Wholy Holy 8. Inner City Blues 9. Save The Children

its ait not much more to say

3/5. Good album, but it was not a good day for me to hear it.

Eh. It all kinda sounds like one song.

I enjoyed this album. It was a little more subtle than I was expecting and would have liked to hear Marvin Gaye's range more. The music was solid and it worked well with his Lyrics. I hope we get more Gaye and a chance to see more of his range and style. Ultimately this album left me wanting more.

Yeah! Nice slow songs good lurics

I enjoyed this album much more than "Let's Get It On" from a few weeks ago. However, even as groundbreaking this concept album is, in the end it just felt like a 36 minute version of "What's Going On" so it felt a little drawn out.

Overall good, but definitely recycled the same musical elements on several tracks (clarinet anyone?).

Honestly, boring and preachy.

3.5/5

Not a fan of Soul music, so me enjoying this album genuinely took me by surprise

nice! wtever

Er. I’m not sure. I liked the songs I already knew. I don’t think I realised it was a concept album and the continuous nature of it made it feel like one song that made me a bit woozy. I know it’s important. But I think I might have to come back to this one. Too early to tell on one listen.

The quality of this album far exceeds my enjoyment unfortunately

Marvin Gaye’s glorious magnum opus is as life-affirming as it is soulful. It’s a testament to moving forward in the face of adversity, and while I think the album is actually a little overrated, I very much have to respect what it is and what it did for soul music.

Good album, great performances especially from Marvin Gaye. Tracks flow really well together, nice listening experience.

Very nice, like a preacher who can sing

Este disco me llego un viernes y se quedó todo el fin de semana y creo que ahora estoy embarazado.

Smoother than a babies bottom. That is sat in a silk baby seat. In the back of Roll Royce Silver Shadow. Possibly driving on Crucible snooker table beds. Which is a bit weird considering it's an album with a pretty bleak theme of PTSD and anger. But that's Marvin's voice. It's an album that you could chuck on at any time an not be annoyed by. Equally there aren't that many highs to it. Just smooth listening.

I applaud the concept of this one, but I’m not sure I would have caught on had I not read the background.

I had already listened to Inner City Blues at some point and had it liked. Three stars feels like such a nebulous space but this isn't good enough for four. This is why I like half stars! Favourite track: Save The Children.

I liked it more than Mike.

Marvin Gaye, the epitome of Motown. With James Jamerson on bass you know the rhythm section will be on point.

Good music to get lost in

Just not my type of music but the lyrics and voice a v good

Relaxing. Ambiente Sound aber nicht mehr vo dem Album mitgenommen.

3.5

Lovely, mellow album with a classic track or two. 3*

An established classic, but numerous listens to this album have never stirred anything particularly deep in me. A 3.

I had two Marvin Gaye albums in a row. This one suffers from the same issue I had with his other album. This first song is awesome and then the rest of the album is forgettable. This has the slight edge because I think there’s two other songs that are good. But the highlight is the first track. 3/5

This is one I’ve been looking for too. It’s incredibly hyped and I haven’t really heard it. I found it a little underwhelming. It’s good. It’s light and airy, yet thematically important. But lyrically it’s pretty simple. Not necessarily a bad thing. The album kinda just floats along which I guess is what many love. For me it’s not exactly my jam. 7.2/10 10

Good listening. Calming and interesting. A little heavy handed at times.

I was expecting some experimental avant-garde metal prog, but I find myself very disappointed.

Good vibes but sanctimonious. Some abrupt endings, was Max accidentally skipping whilst out for a run?. Why was the triangle so prevalent?

Netter 70er Soul.

Ok good. A bit too much about Jesus and God. Between a 3 and a 4

Solid. The cover is awwwesome. why is he singing about god doe

Deep Lyrics

Klassiker! Tolles Album. 6.5/10

3.5

I'm not sure I can describe why I don't love this album. It's "nice", but overall too smooth for me. I will say it flows very nicely.

It's a classic, just notcreally my thing. The voice is impeccable, and there are some great songs, but as a whole it's ... OK. I won't seek it out, but I also wouldn't turn it off.

Strong political statments. The ecology is goated

Marvin Gaye's album "What's Going On?" from 1971 stands as a poignant reflection of its turbulent times. Marvin Gaye, often described as "The Prince of Soul," presents a paradoxical figure, embodying both profound musical talent and personal flaws (honestly, Google it - you'll be surprised, and not in a good way.) Despite being a complex personality, his voice remains a captivating force, and the album showcases his bold departure from the Motown hit-making formula, delving into pressing social issues of the era. As a fan of Motown and Marvin Gaye's distinctive vocals, I appreciate the artistic risk he took in shedding light on societal problems that many preferred to avoid. The mellow '70s vibe and the fusion of funky bass and soulful vocals create an immersive experience. While universally acclaimed for its unembellished truth and the lens it provides into America in 1971, I find myself viewing this iconic album as just okay, acknowledging its significance while not entirely resonating with its widespread praise.

All very lovely songs, "Mercy Mercy Me" is the most powerful and my favorite.

I don't dislike it but it's just not for me.

listened 2x, definitely some easy listening but not really my thing. 3.1/5

M: He has a sweet voice. I feel like I’ve heard his name but haven’t listened to his songs that I know of. My faves were Mercy Mercy Me and Inner City Blues.

Great singer. A bit too soft for my taste

Enjoyed most of the album but would only put a few songs on repeat

Ett skönt sound men faktiskt inget jag skulle lyssna på bara sådär. Det blir lite trist efter ett tag. Påminner lite om porrfilms-musik från 70-talet.

Save the Children antar jag är fullständigt ärlig och inte alls ironi. Det är förstås omöjligt att inte uppfatta det som något annat. Inner city blues är bäst. Riktigt jävla bra. Bättre än "whats going on". Det hörde man efter fem sekunder. Skönt groove. I övrigt är det skön stämning men aldrig upp till en klockren nivå Fan sur över att man inte tycker fler låtar (på allt vi lyssnat hittills) sticker ut och är svinbra (förutom hitsen).