What's Going On

Yeah, that's an easy five.

Super Dope

I got two days of mercy after the terrible album I got before. Wow, where do you even begin with this one... I'll share a small story. I've been listening for this album for many years, and in the beginning I didn't get quit the reasons for it's critical success,. I mean, I did for the first side. I understood immediately that it's a singular and incredible suite of connected songs and it definitely blew my mind. But with the second half it took me more time. Only when I got the longer, moodier song there it all clicked to me. An album that not only defined a time, but manages to cross time while doing so. Unique, one of a kind. A true masterpiece A 5

I can see why Rolling Stone considers this the best album ever. It'll probably take a few more listens to really click for me, but god damn is it good. With every single song flowing into the next it's just a non-stop journey, and it really takes you places. 9/10. Highlights: Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Right On, Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

Many years ago, my roommate and I swapped our favorite records with each other to listen to. He game me "What's Going On," and I gave him "A Love Supreme" (John Coltrane). He didn't like Coltrane, but, then, he didn't like jazz and "A Love Supreme" is not the easiest entry into jazz. Regardless of whether that particular roommate liked jazz, he was on to something with this album. "What's Going On" is fantastic.

A phenomenal, singular concept album with an unparalleled vibe.

All time classic

Today’s Marvin Gaye gets a low 5 from me, it’s so smooth, i love the way the tracks blend into each other creating a sustained mood and I dig the conscious lyrics.

This is pretty close to a perfect album. From the beginning track to the end it's so well performed and composed. Really love Marvin Gaye's first real social statement. I knew it was five stars when it popped up but will definitely take the chance to listen again.

Evergreen. 5/5

Classic ❤️👌

meu deus do céu quase que eu virei cristão, pq nao tem outra explicação a nao ser que esse album é um MILAGRE pra raça humana

o melhor álbum de todos os tempos, sem brincadeira

For all the years I've listened to this, I completely missed it was a 'concept' album of sorts. Excellent voice and backing vocals. Lush orchestrations. Top notch writing. This is an all time banger.

Simply gorgeous, ambitious and true to its artistic style.

Somehow I had listened to this years ago without realizing it was a concept album, and in many ways a seamless piece of music. That alone pretty much seals my feelings on this record, without even entertaining the stunningly spiritual vision of Marvin's work. He distilled some of the headiest topics in human experience into pure R&B, raising consciousness and grooving at the same time. It's pure bliss and it's never done with any ill will or offense. An absolutely breathtaking piece of music, so happy to revisit it.

Someone didn’t give this a perfect score?

George Costanza får i ett avsnitt för sig att han ska ”read a book, from the begining to the end in that order”. Oklart om planen genomförs (Antagligen inte). Men precis så är det med What’s going on. Den ska lyssnas på från början till slut i den ordningen. Trots ett tillbaka litat sound är det ett grymt groove Gaye får till. Så jävla snyggt. Trots att texterna kan upplevas banala (som t ex Save the children) framför Gaye dem med en angelägenhet lika självklar som i dess budskap. Världsklass från början till slut.

When Rolling Stone redid their top 500 albums list they put this at the top spot and it’s kind of hard to argue with that choice. A perfect album

Absolutely loved this all the way through.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Pre Listen: First album on here that's actually been on my radar as something I want to listen to, but haven't gotten around to it yet. I got a few of Marvin's songs on my playlist already, and if he's consistent, I'm sure I'll enjoy this. Expectations higher than usual. Notable Tracks: What's Going On - Instantly pulled me in to the album, I love the beat, love the crowded sound, everything harmonizes incredibly well. Super sweet message too with the lyrics. What's Happening Brother - Favorite track on the album. The lyrics resonated with me the most out of any track. Wholy Holy - Least favorite track on the album. Still musically very solid, I just dislike the lyrics. They're rather lazy, simply making short statements about your religion's most surface level messages to a slow jive isn't very compelling. Felt out of place too, considering his "God Is Love" felt much more fitting with the overall album, and had essentially the same message. Inner City Blues - Incredibly close to being my favorite track on the album. The last minute of the "Mother" part took it away, it should've been a separate track methinks. Post Listen: What a cozy little album, I enjoyed it a lot, and struggled to find a favorite song due to the high quality each track held. The violins were my favorite instrumental group throughout, the flute very close behind. The percussion too, with the chimes and various drum types were much appreciated. Marvin's vocals were incredibly consistent, had good range. The lyrical work especially deserves praise I think, they mostly had messages I can get behind, and felt relevant. Considering this album's from 1971, and the lyrics still feel relevant, I'd call them timeless. I love when albums create a flow from one track to the next with minimal breakage, it makes me want to get it on Vinyl. The majority of songs on here will likely make it to my playlist, they all had so much soul behind them. This will be the first 5 I'm giving on here to an album I haven't heard before. Glad I found out exactly What's Going On, 5/5

Very fitting for boiling weather

One of the greatest records ever made. A personal top 5, maybe even top 3. Such a perfect mix of the soul explosion of the time with influences of the rock word. A soul concept record with plenty to say and some of the best playing you'll ever hear. Such a perfect record.

I love this album. I started listening to it during my last semester at college, and each time I started it, I always listened to it all the way through. It's like a lot of Pink Floyd albums for me because I can't listen to a song individually. It's gotta go with the rest of the whole. The album just flows so insanely well. The production is amazing. It's groovy, it's jazzy, it's soulful, it's effortless. Marvin Gaye's vocals are heavenly. He just sounds so amazing throughout it all and you get so much of him from his multitracks. James Jamerson on the title track is insane. I really do think my favorite aspect of the album is the flow. It's so complete, and it's one of the best albums to take advantage of the medium. Wholy holy indeed.

I love soul. I love concept albums. This is not only great at being both of those, but also as an era-defining time capsule of gorgeous music. Bass!! Favourite tracks: What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, Right On, Inner City Blues

The magnus opus of Motown sound albums, it is a lush, beautiful, sexy experienced that nonetheless, carries with it meaningful social commentary through very potent symbolism. 10/10 [KEEP]

What's Going On? A masterclass in soul and a masterpiece of a concept album is What's Going On. A 5 star album is What's Going On.

Some say this is the greatest album ever made. I have my own list but this would definitely be on it. Perfect example of what soul with a heart sounds like. Marvin Gaye at his best and that's saying a lot.

Classic.

Listening to the conversations at a "woke" party in the late 60s, Marvin Gaye musically comments. Brilliantly. I cannot listen to this album enough. 5/5

Easy 5, not a more beautiful soul album out there that I've heard.

This album has sex

Marvin Gaye at his peak. Love the political edge. Love the flow between tracks. Love everything about it.

Absolutely phenomenal album from start to finish. Everything from the lyrics to the masterful arrangements gives you one of the most timeless soul experiences ever Experienced. Fav tracks: all of them

One of my all time faves!

I just had Marvin Gaye's other album, Let's Get It On for my album of the day, and it's great, but hard to take seriously because so much of it has been cemented in culture as THE sex album; I don't know how anyone could listen to it casually without laughing a bit inside. I don't have any of those associations with the tracks on this album, so I can enjoy it for what it is so much more. There's not a bad track on here. There's a certain way this album makes me feel; it's almost indescribable. Relaxed, optimistic? This album breaks through any preconceived notions I have of my own taste and makes me happy to be human.

good album

Very good

Marvin Gaye has such an amazingly effortless style, it's like his inner soul is just spilling out of him. Must-listen #344

One of our all time favourite albums. Great on road trips or as a backdrop to regular debriefs over a glass of red wine.

No skips

It's probably the greatest Soul record of all time and you shouldn't need 20,000+ nerds on this site tell you otherwise

Told Tay this could very well be the greatest album of all time and I was so right GOD it’s awesome

Masterpiece

5 out of 5

Soul music always in my soul <3

5/5 Stars Really fun and positive vibes from this album. Has Strong political messaging that I mess with. Just a fun a vibey album.

Marvin Gaye's clueless ass don't got a clue; I love 70s soul SO much, it comes from such a hurting place, you can feel it: post-civil rights and Vietnam War

Album terbaik yang pernah diproduksi sepanjang masa. Gila. Lirik yang reflektif dan sarat isu sosial dibawa begitu groovy nan menyenangkan tapi tidak membuat lagu-lagunya kehilangan arah-- a very satisfying contrast. Album dibuka sempurna dengan saxophone yang mendayu indah di lagu What's going on. Jiwa kebabasan seorang manusia tersayat-sayat sambil menari riang dengan lirik-lirik penuh keresahan nan mendayu. Dan mana lagi tempat yang tepat kita mengadu keresahan selain keluarga kita. Lagu dengan transisi begitu mulus, perjalanan album berpindah ke What's happen brother. Menurut saya lagu ini adalah lagu paling tepat untuk didengar sekarang. War is hell, when it will end' menjadi potongan lirik yang saya pikir sangat dekat dengan rumah.... sampai ke bait selanjutnya muncul lirik yang menyambar bagai petir realita. 'Can't find no words, can't find no jobs, money is tighter than it ever been' Lirik tersebut secara instan memindahkan jiwa album ke masa depan, lebih tepatnya 55 tahun, dan menjelajahi suatu negara yang jaraknya lebih dari 14.000KM dari Amerika Serikat. Dan saya mulai setuju dengan apa yang dikatakan Marvin, 'Apa yang terjadi, Saudaraku?'

Basically a perfect album down to every detail. I owned this on CD when I was much younger and that young man did not fully appreciate it, and I'm not sure that I do now.

Excelente, me gustó bastante! Parece una canción larga, las transiciones muy buenas, me encantó

This album is in my top 5 of all time, Beautiful concept album, with Marvin’s pure sweet soul voice, and powerful lyrics 🤩

Amazing. I consider it the greatest piece of musical work of my generation and perhaps of all time.

Complete masterpiece.

This album makes me cry every time. 55 years since it came out, and Marvin Gaye’s lyrics are more relevant than ever. We've learned nothing.

Is What's Going On the greatest album ever recorded? Yes, yes it is. Is What's Going On the greatest song ever recorded? Yes, yes it is. This is one of those albums where I am extremely frustrated I have to wait an entire day to give it its five stars. I have compiled 'desert island' album lists for 25+ years now (because lists of music are the best kind of lists), and this album has always been and will always be on my lists.

One of the all-time great albums. Every song is so powerful, and the conceptual nature of the album as a whole amplifies every individual track. While I didn't live through the 70s, I cannot think about that decade without thinking of this as the soundtrack. In my personal hall of fame.

Grande. muy grande.

Kind of a hell yea. 4.5 stars

marvin gayeee what a genius so much soul coming from his album

great soul album, but it isn't what I would hear on my daily basis

Marvin Gaye looked at the ugly state of the world and channelled his feelings into something so beautiful. Gaye doesn't have the answers to fix the issues. His message doesn't feel hippie-dippy nor does Gaye feel like he has a messiah complex - he just wants everyone to live in peace. Gaye delivers his words via his smooth as silk voice and he is backed up by lush strings and sax. Even though this album spawn many singles, I wouldn't class it as a singles album as this is an LP that you will switch on and immediately get pulled into the world it creates for you.

Exquisito

1971 an influential year. 4 singles. So many strings, pads and thick production. the tablas and bongos...

Even in Mono, 5 star marv

Music has never been so powerful

Legend for a reason. So incredibly musical. Catchy, interesting, textural and groovy. His voice is silky. Call and response on Save the Children is interesting. Flute on Right On. Bongo grooves. Gorgeous record. Might say fuck it and go 5

Such an amazing album, was super excited to return to this one

Probably the most cohesive album I’ve ever listened to. Every song flows perfectly into the next track. And the underlying tone is consistent throughout the whole album.

TRANSCENDENTAL E SUBLIME

Timeless classic, legendary record, oh the tragedy.

One of the greatest albums ever. His words meant a lot then and still do to this day.

Really enjoyable. Quite Pink Floyd-y in parts. The 4 song run from Flyin' High to Mercy Mercy Me is amazing

Buttery voice. Great music

Wow. I’ve passively listened to this before but it’s such a good album. Nearly perfect. Great soul. Great message.

The record announces itself immediately as something different — orchestral in ambition, sophisticated in execution, and emotionally generous in a way that disarms you before you’ve fully settled in. Where so much protest music arrives as accusation, What’s Going On arrives as invitation. That’s Marvin Gaye’s central artistic achievement, and it’s rarer than it sounds. David Van De Pitte’s arrangements are the consistent technical marvel. Strings deployed as emotional texture rather than decoration, horn voicings chosen for mournful beauty rather than punch, woodwinds as delicate color on “Right On” and “Flyin’ High.” The brass on “Inner City Blues” finally unleash in something closer to protest voice — punchy and confrontational in a way Van De Pitte had carefully withheld throughout — and the contrast makes the closing feel genuinely earned rather than merely dramatic. James Jamerson’s bass is melodic without being self-indulgent, which is the highest possible compliment. On “Wholy Holy” he plays with a quality of reverence distinct from everything else on the record. On “Inner City Blues” he sounds almost angry. The range within a single album, always in service of something larger than himself, puts him in a category of his own. The sequencing is the boldest artistic choice. Ending on “Inner City Blues” rather than the spiritual elevation of “Wholy Holy” creates the gap between what’s possible and what actually is — which is exactly where the real protest lives. Marvin could have closed on beauty and resolution. He chose devastation instead, and the record is permanently greater for it. A journey more than an album. An easy five.

Me gustó, es una gran representación del soul

Truly an amazing album, one of the most perfect I've listened to so far. So melodic, flowy, absolutely beautiful, and so sad knowing the fate Gaye would eventually face in his death

Absolute stone cold classic. Perfect end to end . So many favourites but I can’t go past mercy mercy mercy me ( the ecology) . Could easily loop that one. Musically this album is pure sex but if you dive into the lyrics there’s also real political depth too. 10/10

The third Marvin Gaye album I've received from this site, and it's one of his best.

This album is so sexy that I bet most guys give it 5 stars with a hard on

A generational album. 11/10

Undeniable. Love the song cycle structure.

lo amoooo

An album that really makes you feel and want to care. Everything about this is great: Gaye’s voice, the instrumentals, the way each song flawlessly transitions from one to another, the lyrics and message. No notes. Likes: What’s Going On; Flyin High; God is Love; Mercy Mercy Me; Inner City Blues

A truly important album that made a meaningful statement, whilst also sounding great thanks to Marvin's silky smooth vocals and the Funk Brothers' musicianship. As important as it is, if I'm being honest I prefer Let's Get It On: Sexy Marvin > Political Marvin

1971 was the best year in music IMHO and this album was one of many excellent albums released that year. The music flows from one some to another, the lyrics strong. A wonderful album

Buenos temas, ritmos.

What's Going On feels relevant today. A day where the President of the United States said 'A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again,' in reference to unnecessary and probably illegal war that he and the state of Israel launched against Iran. A month after Trump formally rescinded the EPA's Endangerment Finding that finds that greenhouse gasses threaten public health and lays the groundwork for climate regulations. A year where Israel, with the US' support, has displaced and destroyed hundreds of thousands of families across Gaza and Lebanon. Truly, what is going on? And yet, as Marvin sings on 'Save the Children', we must keep on living. There was a time when this album felt dated to me, when I would wonder what the turbulence of the late 60's and early 70's must have felt like. I no longer have to wonder. Beyond the thematic power of the record, this is also obviously an absolute masterpiece, successfully translating the magic of Motown to a new era. If the only things on this recording were Gaye and James Jamerson's bass, it would still be utter perfection, but the expansive arrangements and brilliant sequencing make it a one of a kind song cycle. It preaches without feeling preachy because it's just so damn heartfelt.

Absolutely seminal, an essential snapshot of human history and artistry.

Heerlijk!!!

Pretty on point for the drive home from church on Easter Sunday. And quite the production with this almost being one continuous song. A bit more subversive than I was expecting but that might give this album more appeal.

Probably one of the best albums!

one of the ultimate albums

The absolute peak of music, personal favourite. Everything from the vocals, the incredible instrumentals and the lyrics are just perfect in this album, top 5 albums oat Best song - Whats happening brother

10/10 – Masterpiece

- Such a heavenly album. - great performances by marvin - such a big sound throughout this album, making it feel grandiose -

I enjoyed more than the first one. I like the funky what to say

iconic album with lots of emotions and passing in it.

What a great album of songs leading seamlessly from one to another. An album that captures the times through its beautiful rhythyms reaching out through the sadness but hopeful conditions of 1970 America. Marvin Gaye is one of America's thoughtful and creative musical geniuses. ❤️

Did not know it was a continuous concept album

Woooooow, buenísimo. COmpleto, sabroso, groovy, las transiciones están buenísimas.

Best record of all time.

One of the all time greats! Unfortunately, still relevant in today’s political climate

Un CLÁSICO con toda la razón, definitivamente Marvin Gaye es un rey en todo el sentido de la palabra, el flow y la vibra de la música en este álbum es incomparable, además de la misma coherencia musical entre todas las canciones, generando un ambiente totalmente coherente y que propone una naturalidad tanto en la combinación de todos los instrumentos así como en la misma naturaleza de todos los temas que trata, siendo de una época tan cargada de temas sociales como lo son los 70's, y aún teniendo esta ligereza para combinar la protesta con los instrumental que permite una experiencia ligera pero inolvidable al que escucha, claramente y sin exagerar un álbum perfecto.

Great album. Every song is good, most bang. It’s a really great straight though play because a lot of the tracks flow right into one another.

one of the best albums ever, 10/10, no bad songs

Great

Love it! Vibes, good for bacgrpund Music, and I dint have to actively listen. Soul but not crazy

Owned A bonefide no skips masterpiece

Solid album 8/10

The instruments are funky, the singing is phenomenal, and the songs are simultaneously both very politically charged and still positive and fun. All time masterpiece

Soulful genius. A smooth listen.

I've listened to this record so many times... and it never gets old. I love it so much.

Fantastic

Glorious rich, reflective, uplifting sou

#70/1001 🇺🇸 Hands down, one of the greatest records of all time and certainly in my top 5. This is a flawless album from start to finish. 35 perfect minutes. The sad thing is lyrically it is still relevant today 55 years later. Best Tracks: Inner City Blues, Whats Happening Brother, Whats Goin On.

what's going on and a masterpiece shows that you can talk about politics with lighter sounds without necessarily being dark and perfection according to and the productions are the best ever seen

genuinely loved this album, I found it to be beautifully composed and I could literally feel the album. would love to listen to this on vinyl one day.

I hate that this album is just as relevant now as it was in '71. How have we not grown or evolved as a society/culture in 55 years!?!? 5 stars but I'm depressed now.

Oh mercy, mercy me!

Another one I can listen to on CD. Bought it years ago as some list told me that I should. Not initially my bag but listened to it enough that its grown on me and now I love it - other than save the children which is a skipper - super smooth vocals and great arrangements with powerful vocals with tracks that blend seamlessly to together. Whats not to like (other than save the children).

It's perfect. Looking forward to checking out the dumb one-star reviews on this one.

Fantastic album by Marvin Gaye. The music and vocals blend together so well for this smooth, soulful record. I want more!

Classic.

Great record. So smooth, emotional, and well written. A very cool record. For me personally, I don’t know that it reaches the heights it’s consistently rated at. But an absolutely great record nonetheless. I would love to have a nice vinyl pressing of this one for my collection. 4.5/5.

STANDOUTS: What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) There's nothing I can really say about What's Going On, the music speaks for itself. I had trouble picking out three "standouts," just because the album is perfection from front to back. If you haven't listened to this before, do it immediately, and if you have already listened to it before, do it again damn it!!! 10/10

How is this the fifth highest soul album on the list? It should be one or two!

5 out of 5 Also all bangers. Recorded in D-town! Soul at its finest.

10/10 Очень крут. 100% буду слушать. Мне нравятся такая музыка, безумно приятная и смысл глубок

Buenísimo para escuchar mientras estudias

Very good already listed and feel joy like freedom

An R&B classic. Easy 5/5.

Best album of all time? This album is amazing. It was a cutting edge concept album with all songs running together. I wouldn't vote it #1, but it *IS* great and has aged really well. Pitchfork: 10.0 Rolling Stone: Top 500 Albums #1 Best Songs What's Going On Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

some of my favorite albums i've listened to in the last few years. it's truly peak

What an utterly brilliant album. The songs feel so hard hitting and emotional but maintain this Motown vibe. The subjects the songs cover are wide ranging and yet the whole album feels very cohesive. Looking forward to re-listening to this already!

Masterpiece

Høyden alt av Marvin Gaye og soul blir målt etter. En skive jeg kan sette på nesten når som helst og som alltid går til den er ferdig.

What’s going on? Alt bare sitter så innmari. Føles så gjennomkomponert, som et klassisk stykke.

Jeg husker første gang jeg hørte dette albumet. Jeg lå og sov mens Gjertrud hadde satt det på i stua. Det var noe ved å våkne til dette albumet som fikk meg til å føle at jeg var i en annen verden enn vår. På litt samme måte som Smile så høres albumet utenomjordisk ut. Jeg vet ikke helt hva som gjør det, for instrumenteringa er ganske grei, men det må være noe med arrangementene, skarplyden og albumets sykliske natur. En favoritt!

A classic, for a reason.

Just wonderful

does this guy ever know whats happening?

Nothing less than the best for Marvin.

Great album. I like how Gaye weaves all the musical and lyrical themes through each song.

Did not listen this time but know it well...

This is the first time that I’m giving an album a 5, right off the bat. Usually, it takes a few listens for me to truly start understanding and enjoying the album, or it takes someone who’s a big fan of the album to convince me of its quality. But this album was just so good, with impactful lyrics, smooth tone, and just overall high quality. It’s no wonder to me why this album is as highly acclaimed as it is.

This album was cool. I'm having a similar reaction as I did to when I heard Songs in the Key of Life for the first time, where I was worried about whether it would live up to its wide acclaim and then am still blown away. While this isn't as epic as Songs in the Key of Life, this album is still great for many similar reasons as that one. It also sounds so ahead of its time; I could imagine this having been releasing in the 1990's or 2010's. I think I'm just going to panic rate this 5 stars because I know that more listens will definitely make me like this better. Favorite Track: Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)

A classic! Still relevant today. So soulful and smooth. Just a great listen.

Amazing soulful album.

Love.

chillll

Every now and then you listen to an album and just from the way it starts you know it's something truly great. From the first note you know that you're listening to something truly special, the kind of piece of art that feels like it wasn't made by humans, but something else. Maybe it's god, maybe it's aliens, maybe it's the universe, I don't know, made you cannot believe it was made by someone like you. That is this album, something special that feels it from.the first note. Also, to be less pretentious, its just really freaking good. Highlights include the whole album, but especially What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, Right On and Inner City Blues.

A truly amazing album start to finish

I remember the first time I listened to this album, I wasn’t massively impacted by it. I think because I knew it was held in the same regard as Ziggy Stardust, or Rumours, or Abbey Road, albums I know front to back, I expected to hear it once and immediately know all the songs. But this isn’t an album for the songs individually, it’s an album that should be played front to back, with no interruptions. Listening to it as a singular piece uncovers the masterpiece that it is. Funky, heartfelt, and as terribly relevant today as it was 55 years ago…

Me gustó mucho, solo había escuchado la primera canción del album pero la tendré por completo on repeat

Maravilloso, suave y político

One of the greatest albums of all time and one of the first ‘concept’ albums that pushed motown/soul forward and showed what was possible. I have listened to this endlessly and am still blown away by his voice and by how tight the funk brothers are on this record. Marvin gave others permission to express themselves while still sounding so good. A monumentally important album that still sounds so good.

A classic!

This is one of the albums that expanded my horizons into classics and a world of genres as a snotty little teenager. It's never lost its sheen or brilliance. Lyrical and musically it's such a cool and measured album from start to finish.

Супер класика. Є думка, що тексти не дуже цікаві. І я скоріше погоджуюсь з цим твердження. Але мені воно ніколи не заважало чи турбувало. Музично це як теплі обійми, дуже приємна та м'яка музика.

Класика. Іннер сіті блюз це взагалі найкраще.

solid gold

love love love

Mira que es complicado encontrar un disco de soul conceptual, dos cosas que parecen no casar, y viene Marvin y te lo hace. Encima no es un concepto ñoño, que es bien político en plena guerra de Vietnam hablar de injusticia, sufrimiento, drogas y ecología. Por esto ya es un disco revolucionario. Si le sumas la calidad musical del estilo inconfundible de Gaye y la calidez de su voz ya lo eleva a otra dimensión. Hay talento y valentía a raudales en lo que parece un simple álbum de soul, nada mas lejos de la realidad.

Marvin Gaye's such a fascinating man. What a fantastic album.

Great album 10/10 I like the way jesus is mentioned throughout the album, especially in the song God is love because Marvin is telling us that god is forgiving and a friend. Overall the album was beautiful this was my first time hearing this album and I will most definitely continue to play it and even add songs to my playlist. Thank you Marvin

puts you in a great mood, smooth and nice

MAKES ME WANNA HOLLER. Fuck Marvin Gaye's Dad. Annie rating 4/5.

Man. What an album. It's damn near perfect. Absolute elite world building and story telling. Takes you on a journey where you end right back at the start. Forces you think about how we should see the god in everyone. And let's talk about the MUSIC. Wow! Elite use of vibraphone or some type of metalophone percussion - gives it this ethereal floating through sky vibe. I loved it all. This album just makes me want to be better to people.

Okay, completely lives up to the hype, a seamless concept album, incredible flow from song to song, the way he combines genres and styles with the lyrics, and the connection to real life struggles. It really is what was going on at the time. Just a beautiful listen from beginning to end.

so much was said in 35:32 that truly makes you think about the world around you. mastery of the genre, and of music as a whole.

Great album

I'd give it a ten if I could

Smooth, soulful, politically aware. One of my favourites.

Brother, brother, brother what an album. Songs 10/10, transitions 10/10, voice 10/10. Great songs with some jazzy flares

This is an amazing, lush, sweet album. The love Marvin has for his fellow man and humanity and the world at large is here in BUCKETS. But this is not the ROMANTIC live album everyone thinks it is. There's so much soul and emotion here, Marvin practically weeps for what we're doing to the environment for our children and each other. This is not your sex album, though. You thinking it is. My rating: 5/5

Ah! C’est si bon, ooooh là là, magnifique en tout point, il mérite bien sa place dans le top des classements. J’ai même pas de joke à faire, chapeau Marvin! - Salut Cyril! Bonne année un peu en retard, I guess! Ça fait un sacré bout aussi que je ne te suis pas revenu, c’est peut-être même mon dernier message sur la liste originale, avant que je te rejoigne sur la colline de Sysyphe! Ah, avant de me perdre dans des suggestions de films, je me permets de m’interrompre pour t’annoncer la bonne nouvelle: Ping Pong Go sort un nouvel album au mois d’avril! Il y a beaucoup de très bons artistes invités à collaborer aussi, donc les stars de l’heures comme Lou-Adriane Cassidy, Thierry Larose et Arianne Roy. Aussi, Angine de Poitrine vont potentiellement sortir un deuxième album, mais ils sont pas mal cryptique là-dessus… Donc, on parle de flim? Je te recommande grandement Parasite, honnêtement je connais personne qui n’a pas aimé, vraiment tu peux pas te tromper avec. Get Out aussi est très bon, quoique pas autant que Parasite. Mais si t’aimes les scénario tordus à la Lynch, tu seras servis! Dans la même veine de l’horreur/thriller moderne, il me serait dur de ne pas mentionner Ari Aster. T’as dû entendre parler de Midsommar, c’est pas mal le film qui l’as mis sur la carte, mais c’est selon moi son plus faible ( et ça en dit long, ça reste un très bon film malgré tout, ça en dit long sur le gars!). En avant goût, je te propose son excellent court métrage The Strange Thing About the Johnsons, disponible gratuitement sur YouTube, pour te donner une idée du bonhomme. Pour ses longs métrages, je te recommande de commencer avec Hereditary ou Midsommar, les deux sont d’excellente déconstruction de l’horreur basé sur des drames familiaux extrêmement efficaces en eux même, mais il sait les pousser encore plus loin avec les éléments d’horreur très bien dosés. Après ça, son dernier film Eddinghton qui porte sur la pandémie et les ravages qu’elle a provoqué sur le monde est peut-être sorti trop tôt pour certains, mais c’est selon moi le meilleur film sorti de 2025, donc deux gros 👍👍. Finalement, un des films les plus weird, absurde, profond, rocambolesque et excessivement bien construit que j’ai vue de ma vie revient à Beau Is Afraid, une odyssée de l’âge moderne incroyablement personnelle qui me hante encore aujourd’hui. C’est VRAIMENT pas pour tout le monde, mais si t’as envie d’une expérience cinématographique unique, y’a pas d’autres choix. Sinon, en vrac, si t’es un peu calé en SciFi et en grosse intrigues géo-politique, je te recommande les Dunes de Denis Villeneuve, donc le dernier opus va sortir cette automne. En parlant de notre Denis cheri d’amour, je te lance en vrac Incendie / Prisonners / Arrival, tous de phénomènal thrillers à leurs propres sauces, vraiment tu ne peux pas ne pas aimer. En restant dans le québécois, Les chambres rouges de Pascal Plante pour un thriller juridique profondement glauque et sinistre et Viking de Stéphane Lafleur, une comédie dramatique simili scifi sur… pas mal de chose finalement! Si t’aimes les huis clos et les problèmatiques reliées aux relations humaines, je te recommande! Ok, ça commence à manquer de temps, je vais juste t’en pitcher une couple: - The Whale - The Lighthouse - Whiplash (film de musique!) - Ex Machina - The Zone of Interest - Interstellar - Poor Things - Sound of Metal (film de musique!) - Her - Birdman - The Ballad of Buster Scruggs - La La Land (film de musique!) Je pourrais continuer de même longtemps, donc fait moi signe si t’en veux plus! Ok, côté série maintenant! Je suis définitivement moins calé que le cinéma, principalement que tout les shows ont 4-8 saisons, tu peux rentrer tellement de films là-dedans! C’est drôle, j’ai commencé les Sopranos le mois passé, j’ai presque fini la saison 1, à date j’adore! J’aime la structure lousse narrativement, ça devient presqu’un documentaire. Tout les personnages sont incroyables aussi, je pourrais les suivre 24/24! Mad Men et The Wire, j’ai essayé vraiment fort, mais je m’en suis lassé avant d’atteindre la fin (s3 pour Mad Men et s1 pour Wire). Mad Men tournait en rond après un moment, genre on sait que c’est tous des gigolos pas fiables, donnez moi plus de meeting spicy et moins de « J’ai changé, Betty, pardonne mes actions d’hommes des années 50 », suivie de 36 scènes de baises dans les bureaux de l’agences. The Wire, y’a ben trop de personnages là-dedans! J’avais un calepins pour noter les noms/surnoms/alias/roles de tout les personnages, pis même là j’avais de la misère à me retrouver dans cette soupe de jargons policier. Je comprends que c’est plus immersif, mais mon cerveau de TDAH y arrive pas. Par contre, Breaking Bad et sa prologue Better Call Saul son mes shows préféré de tout les temps, je te recommande vraiment BCS si tu l’as pas regardé, la qualité des épisodes sont beaucoup plus consistantes que BB, et les personnages tout aussi brillants dans leur écriture et dialogues. Je partage ton inquiétude vis-à-vis de Severence: le show est incroyable, mais la finale de la deuxième saison m’inquiète un peu concernant la suite de la série, j’ai peur qu’ils ne savent plus où aller avec ce scenario de dingo. Ouf! Je pense que j’ai fait le tour, à la prochaine!

So far we've had albums lead by guitar, drums, samples, electronics, etc., but this is the first album where the BASS quietly carries the entire composition. This album flows seamlessly and does not waste any time. The first 6 tracks all feel connected until you reach "Right On," where it's like "let's dance!" Then in the same song it's slows back down into the next track, and then you ride out smoothly yet mournfully with inner city blues. Surely an album with musical and philosophical influence spanning decades. 9/10

Oh man, so many thoughts . . . . Here's one: this album epitomizes the debt we 3 owe to Mombo. She must have bought this album around when it was first released (May 1971, a year before we moved to Florida), because I'm pretty sure I remember listening to it in South Bend. Anyway, safe to say, probably a pretty small minority of white kids growing up in the 70s whose mother bought this album. Thanks, Mom (for ALL the music)! I remember listening to this in the 80s (probably 90s, too), and feeling like it had been forgotten, but in the past 20 or 25 years or so, I feel like I've been hearing it (the hits, at least) more often. I bet this is one of the highest rated albums (by all the people who rate it here, I mean -- not just us). 5 stars (though, if I had the option, I *might* rate it 4.5 - but maybe 5).

James Jamerson on bass! (He only used 1 finger) This record has soul, heart, spirit, it's groovy, and it has stood the test of time. There is a unity and distinctive sound to it, despite how relaxed the studio sessions were. What's Going On elevates my mind, but I also feel it immediately in my body (a rare combination in music)

Beautiful album. What a voice delivering social commentary. Artist tragically gone way too soon. Some of the tracks are fairly mellow but WOW. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

An appropriate assignment during Black History Month, especially since I recently finished reading Kristin Hannah's "The Women" about Vietnam War combat nurses in which references to music including Gaye, The Beatles, and Hendrix really help set the scene. Definitely deserves its spot on a list of albums to hear at least once before you die. Fantastic instrumentation and smooth, soulful vocals. Powerful, meaningful lyrics. Still highly relevant, unfortunately.

Marvin Gaye!!! What’s going on?! Brilliant and transitionally fluent in the blend to the next track. Could listen to this on repeat!

Kind of hated Save the Children.and thought Flying High and Wholly Moly were mediocre. Basically the rest are good to amazing

Went down so smooth, just a lovely listening experience from start to finish (except for the cabasas in Right On which drove me absolutely nuts)

Good

I've been meaning to listening through this album, so thank god I was given a reason to do so! I know I'm not adding anything, but it's sooooooo good!!! It's so smooth and groovy, you want to keep listening through every song without skipping. This is definitely a must-have vinyl purchase!!!

Historically, it mixed the pop with the politics of the time. Groovily, it just soars musically above everything else from the time period besides Coltrane.

One of the greatest albums of all time. Soulful, melodic, great lyrics, perfect message

It’s everywhere bro

Fantastic, incredible voice, this album is such a statement. Marvin Gaye's reputation in my mind is mostly about sexy music. He may be sexy, what with that voice and all, but this is not background sexy music. Maybe that comes more from Let's get it on (that would make sense). This is political and painful and demands attention. Love it. I love the mix, good music, but the voice is all the way out front. The orchestration could have been out of date, but somehow is perfect. Title track is amazing, loved "Mercy Mercy Me" What is that sound on "Right On"? It's cool as hell! Favorite song on the album, jazz flute and all! This one captivated me even more than I expected, not an everyday listen, but a 5 star experience.

Love it. So soulful.

Pretty gaye

Brilliant! 4.5. Lots to enjoy here, really felt like something special, can only imagine how it felt in 1971. Cool story behind the title track as well. Loved What's Going On, but also a big fan of Mercy Mercy Me (picking that one!!), Right On and Inner City Blues. Brilliant!

A mí lo que pasa es que el Soul en general, no me gusta.

This was really cool. Its really straightforward, he doesn't want conflict, he likes the ecology, and he seems really spiritual. Kinda role model music, everyone should inspire to think like him. Also I love the transitions between each track, its like he's telling a story to kids. Dare I say.....10/10

yk considering theres not nothing to berry gordy's accusation of Lack Of Commercial Potential, its kinda wonderful that this album is still one of the most easily likable and Obviously Good records in existence. its a triumph primarily of form...i wouldnt be surprised if many of the "conscious" soul albums inspired by this one have better and more coherent points to make about the world and its problems. but im equally sure none of them just Blow Ur Mind the way this one does...hung together as one of the most coherent album suites of its decade, to the point where im not sure i even think of it as a suite more than just a single multipart Song. its not a blues album, but imo one of the big connective points between the blues and soul is that theyre both genres about Filling The Space...audible expanses waiting to be occupied by The Human Spirit. or something like that. in that way, both the space and the filling here feels like a to-this-point culmination of this particular thread of black music. and man like can u ever imagine Not Being In The Mood For This Album. crazy talk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Solid gold

Marvin Gaye seems like he has one foot in the sixties and one in the seventies in this one. I was expecting some straight 70s R&B and got that, but, like, sort of psychedelic too, which was a cool surprise. Great album for a slow Sunday around the house. I loved it.

Perfect album

YUHHHHH what is going on?? Love an album that flows

This is the first record that I actually own on this list which is kind of exciting for me. I got to listen to it and it’s original form - on vinyl, through headphones and in stereo. It’s perfect. While the individual tracks may be not as memorable as the title track or the singles, the album, as a whole, was meant to be experienced as a singular song cycle piece and listening to it in that way is how to experience the smooth interplay of the vocals, the musical backing, the messaging, the atmospheric arrangement, and what is ultimately the encapsulation of Motown in its most perfect form. The only downside to this album is that while it was released over 50 years ago its messaging is still relevant today.

Fattest and slimmest.

top 3 - Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Save The Children, Right On. Man, he has an amazing voice. Great from start to finish. I really like how the songs blend into each other as well! It’s sad how young he died though :(

I’ve had this album for a good 30 or so years, and for whatever reason it’s not one I reach for when I want to listen to something from beginning to end. That’s been my loss, because hearing now in full reveals what an absolute masterpiece it is; an insanely talented set of musicians, great songs beautifully arranged, and Oh, that voice. Effortless yet controlled, expressive but subtle. The album is 35 minutes of beautiful, lush, ambitious and thought provoking magic. As with many albums on this list, go for the original release and ignore the 50th anniversary version unless you’ve got a real need to hear every possible version of What’s Going On recorded. (I want to point out here that there have been many subsequent singers compared to Marvin Gaye, but you need to hear him here at his absolute peak to understand he’s beyond compare)

Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Jeg elsker Marvin Gaye!! På denne vakre vakre dagen hvor lille baby Tulla er på vei til verden så får jeg et dog alvorlig album men med et så slående budskap: You see, war is not the answer For only love can conquer hate You know we've got to find a way to bring some lovin' here today // soleklar femmer. en av de beste albumene noensinne.

Perfect no notes

i wonder how many people exist today because of this album

now we're cookin' with sex

GOAT.

Amazing album definitely switched up my taste a bit

Listening session: january 26th, while commuting to internship Listened to before: yes of course Thoughts: man is there a smoother record than this, especially when listening front to back? Favourite tracks: What’s Going On, Wholy Holy & Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)

Mycket snyggt och smooth, ibland kanske lite för smooth och snyggt för just mig. Men som album betraktat ändå en femma!

Ägnat dagen åt att försöka hitta svagheter här. Men till och med gurkan, och då menar jag bokstavligen instrumentet gurka den här gången, är väl avvägd. Otroligt elegant helhet, med ledmotiv som återkommer och låtar som går in i varandra. Närmast oantastligt album. Bara början och slutet gör det till en 5a.

Ett till album som brukade sättas på när man var basic junior. Har därefter fått höra att det är världens bästa album. Av någon anledning gör det mig otroligt irriterad. Det går inte att utse världens bästa album, knappt ens rimligt att välja 1001. Men ah det är ju en femma hehe. Stort fan av Marvin Gaye!

save the babies! perfektion

Stone classic

Stunningly gorgeous. Need to revisit more often. RYM: Y (#44) Saved a song: Y

The quintessential soul album that perfectly captures the human condition with such sincerity that its hard to believe any other album will ever come close

This album features some of the best songs ever recorded.

listened to this before feels good 9/10 2026/1/24

Sounds like an easy Saturday afternoon - Soul and comfort

It's remarkable how songs retain their relevance in 2026 as they did 50 years ago. Some great songs - with an edge of challenge to them. Enjoyed listening to this.

5/5⭐️

What's going on? So much. Vietnam, violent racism, riots on campuses, police shootings, a government attacking it's own people. So still relevant? Also edge of 70's big strings and whacky show tune key changes, soaring backup voices, those congas! killer songs, lush sound all around, the weirdest spoken call and sung response with himself, and Marvin soft, urgent gorgeous voice pleading for peace. I didn't realize this was a concept album, soldier returning from the war and looking around at what America's become since he left. Amazing artist, Marvin went through a lot and produced a lot of great music in a short life, the Jesus and God part was an arrival for him, but if it's a bit much (it is for me), check his great Let's Get It On from 1973, full-on 70's Soul, his spiritual call for Peace and Love becomes a spiritual call for Sex and Love, less Jesus, more sexual healing. Mercy.

I’m a sucker for soul music. It’s a pretty failsafe genre (imo) for a chill evening. Cleaning the kitchen up after dinner or cooking always pairs well with soul. I’m not sure it is a relief or sad that the lyrics of this album talk about how the world is dying physically and emotionally. With the hatred, and suffering of people. As well as, fish being poisoned with mercury, radiation in the sky, etc. Since this album was recorded in the early 70s and it still rings true today. Marvin Gaye is trying to find ways to make people care about the world and each other. Yet nothing seems to have changed. Does this mean that the world is not doomed and it just always feels that way to some extent? Accepting that no matter what timeline you live in. There always seems to be some sort of atrocities happening. Maybe the world just needed Marvin Gaye to stick around on this planet a little bit longer RIP. Maybe the world just needs more soul.

Goated

Truelly a great album, it's hard to think of a better one

one of my favorites

also listened to this on my personal 1001 list. banger.

This album never gets old and is part of the fabric of the American social justice moevement to this day. Gaye's words have the same impact and message today as they did when he released the album,

That was a great album, my only disappointment is its length and possibly the lack of a standalone hit. But as far as album criteria goes, it flows together seamlessly from track to track. It's by a GOAT artist of the Motown Soul genre. After reading the Wikipedia, I can see and agree with how highly this album ranks on many lists. Right On hits a good spot for me, it's so groovy.

Certified classic. Marvin Gaye is the man. No notes

Smooth as hell

Favorite song on the album is Inner city Blues. There’s a reason it’s considered a classic. Powerful messages but delivered gently with vocals. Other favorite tracks: what’s going on, mercy mercy me, and right on.

Fantastic album, i stone cold classic

I mean what can you say that hasn't already been said about this? Beautiful, soulful, poignant. A masterpiece of an album.

Soulful and full of life. Great lyrics with regards of the situation of black people and social issues that make their mark even today. It flows so well and it keeps you hooked from start to finish. 100% recommended.

Beautiful album. I love how it all blends together. Marvin Gaye was ahead of his time. Will definitely be going back to this one.

a no skip album, the lyrics and intruments are just heavenly

Classique, j’ai plus accordé d’importance aux paroles lors de cette réécoute et c’est un album tellement important

I was originally going to wait to listen to this album more towards the winter time, but I have been in such a Marvin Gaye kinda groove now and I had to come back and gush about this album. The user score is underrating this album in my opinion, it is near perfect if not perfect, and I think this album should be necessary at all costs to listen to regardless of your taste. Marvin Gaye is a once in a billion artist and this album is a shining example of that statement. His charisma mixed with his signature silky smooth vocals makes this album such a heartfelt and deeply emotional connection to each and every person who listens to it. I really hope at some point in my musical journey I can delve into his entire discography, but for now I jump forward to this masterpiece. This album feels exactly like how it does to see snow outside your window as a kid mixed with some of the most impactful and harmonic lyrics. There is so much I can say but I would be retreading the same paths already gone over and over again, so I guess I will cut it here. If you haven't given yourself the blessing of hearing this album, stop what you are doing and turn it on, please?

AMAZING

Герл я слушала

This just isn't a hateable album. I'm yet to find anyone that hears the name Marvin Gaye and says "I hate that guy." Hell, it's hard to find someone that dislikes his music. Half the time when his name is brought up the response is "He's a great songwriter, love his stuff." It's am amazingly relaxing listen more than anything, just something about those strings. The lyricism is amazing as well, backed up by one of the best voices in Soul. Marvin Gaye could sing a Terms of Service page and make it sound like prose. Lastly, of course, saxophone bonus points.

liked

My main gripe with Soul Music is about singers "screaming" too much. I don't know why they need to sing high notes all the time but that's a torture to the soul 😉 But Marvin is a different story! Although being a political record Marvin' wonderful singing, melody and calmness makes this record delightful. Great album and a reminder to listen to Marvin more often.

Unbelievably good.

5/5. A truly unique album from a man who epitomizes Soul. Everyone should give this at least a single listen. It is not amazing all the way through — some songs, especially those at the start, are comparably plain when set against the better songs. But those better songs are incredible. "Mercy Mercy Me" and "Inner City Blues" are legendary. Gaye is a wonderful singer the whole way through though, and the instrumentation is spectacular. The ominous choral backing and strings on some songs imbue them with an otherworldly quality. A joy to listen to.

i listened to it once and thought, oh this is a bit disappointing all the songs sound the same.... then i listened to it again and suddenly i just GOT IT. like it's not perfect but there's something so raw and vulnerable about this, i can't really put it into words. i love music where the artist has an idea and just goes for it and maybe it succeeds and maybe it doesn't quite hit the mark in places but you can just feel what they're feeling. this is one of those albums. this is also maybe the worst review i've ever written because i literally cannot explain myself here hahaha. also his VOICE. oh my DAYSSS. marvin gaye could sing the dictionary at me and i'd be like omg 5 stars.

A+ voice A+ band A+ writing A+ arrangements No skips, basically all highlights. Track order is very thoughtful. Really annoyed at myself for not listening to this earlier. Excellent album.

Come on.

One of my top favorite soul releases ever! If you can't feel the emotion Marvin is pouring out here, you must be dead.

Album’s best : TOUT je suis choqué bordel

Heavenly!

Not that long ago that I reviewed "Here My Dear" which showcased Marvin at his lowest. Here he is at his best, conveying (on record, at least) empathy for the world around him in a way that's beautifully and touchingly expressive. This is a record that sounds important to Marvin and undoubtedly was, in that he had to fight for it against the wishes of his company. Topics arrange from pleas for understanding of the plight of black people ("What's Going On"), returning Vietnam vets ("What's Happening Brother"), drug users including himself ("Flyin' High"), the future ("Save The Children") religion ("God Is Love"), the environment ("Mercy Mercy Me"), empathy ("Right On"), unity ("Wholy Holy"), and the ghetto ("Inner City Blues"). This is a lot for one album to tackle in 35 minutes! The actual tackling of subjects ranges from very well-articulated treatises to scattershot musings, but more important is the delivery. Marvin's voice could melt butter and never leaves anything feel anything less than earnest, and it's surrounded with a luscious, shifting soundscape that continues from track to track, making the album feel like an extended suite. As much as any album, this deserves to be heard as a single piece. If you read any of my other reviews, you'll see that I'm not a fan of maudlin or overly-sentimental material, but I am a fan of earnestly-expressed emotion that is delivered in a compelling way, and in that regard there's nothing that measures up to What's Going On.

Hm, let's see what's up next... Marvin Gaye! I don't know much Marvin Gaye, let me think... "Let's Get It On", "Sexual Healing"... Ah, so this is gonna be a sultry, sexy album. ~35 excellent minutes later~ Okay, I wasn't expecting anything so deep and political... and I *certainly* wasn't expecting so much about God and Jesus. Had no idea Marvin Gaye contained so many multitudes. Not to mention the excellent production, and the connected 'song cycle' nature of the album... It's a fantastic album that really showcases and champions the album as an artform.

love it

Jajajajja Kan de hele dag aanstaan! En ook nice, de radio die erna komt poahhhh een en al sfeer

За последнее время я полюбил соул.

This album is an absolute masterpiece, and imo the most cohesive, successful concept album. The weight of what this album holds is just extraordinary. It of course needs to be placed in the context of the tumultuous time in which it was written - I time of deep challenges and conflicts. The Vietnam War, fights for equality on many fronts, awakening to environmental catastrophe, cultural/generational divides, income inequality, a fast-shifting economy. And Marvin Gaye is feeling this on profound levels, and shares with us the ways he is processing and confronting this politically, socially, and spiritually. The music is unsurprisingly fantastic - his miraculous voice, exceptional musicianship, and a flowing, cohesive musical journey from the beginning of the album to the end. I appreciated the repetition of musical motifs tying things together as well. And overall the depth of feeling is so palpable - the range of emotion (despondent to angry to hopeful) is so relatable. I appreciate, too, that the album is both universal and also so clearly speaks to the Black American experience at the time. A work of artistic genius and musical greatness.

"War is not the answer, for only love can conquer hate" - What's going on. "War is hell, when will it end? When will people start getting together again ?" - What's happening brother "Self destructions in my hand" - Flying high (in the friendly sky) "And if you want to love, you've got to save the babies" - Save the children "And all He asks of us (peace) is we give each other love" - God is love "What about this overcrowded land, how much more abuse from man can she stand?" - Mercy mercy me (The Ecology) "Oh, true love can conquer hate every time, give out some love and you'' find peace sublime" - Right on "People we all got to come together because we need the strength, power all the feeling" - Wholly holy "Who are they to judge us simply because we wear our hair long" - Inner city blues (makes me wanna holler) 5/5 album. The themes throughout this album are captured so beautifully, from the struggles of addiction, to the price of war but ultimately how we all need to love each other is just 10/10, no notes.

🤍

That's the genius shit. Dead at 45, as terrible a loss as Lennon. Fucking guns. "With the world exploding around me, how am I supposed to keep singing love songs?"

Инструментал Right on🤌🤌имбища Хороший, но я б 4,5 поставила из-за некоторых песен.

100% solid gold Soul classic! If the lyrical content was studied on every national curriculum we might have a better world some day. Probably the best ’concept’ album ever recorded.

A true soul masterpiece and by far his best album. I know it's on everyone's best ever list. I like the album a lot, but I don't think it's the best album ever recorded. But it's definitely worth 5 stars. It is the bar that is set for what a soul record should be.

nice music

My soul left my body 5/5⭐️

own

Really enjoyed this, his voice, the melodies, how compact the album was. On the surface level it's easy listening but the lyrics are so moving.

What's Going On: 5/5 What's Happening Brother: 5/5 Flyin' High(In the Friendly Sky): 5/5 Save the Children: 5/5 God is Love: 5/5 Mercy Mercy Me(The Ecology): 5/5 Right On: 5/5 Wholy Holy: 4.5/5 Inner City Blues(Makes Me Wanna Holler): 5/5 Verdict: 5/5. Holy shit.

One of the best albums in existence

CLASSIC

It's Rolling Sonte Magazine's Greatest Album of All Time for a reason, and I'm all in on it.

undeniable classic

Classic

Marvelous Marvin.

This is a pretty universally highly-rated album, topping lists like Rolling Stone’s 2020 & 2023 Best Albums of All Time Lists. The album is pretty short, only 9 songs long, and each of them is pretty good. The best is the title track, which is just an all-time song. Gaye’s reaction to the Vietnam War and the reactions to it’s protests can be pasted onto many modern movements, and certainly have. It’s also just a really fun listen! The other tracks on here didn’t quite meet the heights of this one, but every time I started to tune out, a new groovy section came in and rocked my socks off! Listening to this as a complete album is the ideal way to listen to it, though. It's a concept album, so all the songs flow into each other in themes and musically, creating a really unique sonic experience you'd miss out on if you weren't listening this way.

Timeless album, I love this thing.

One of the GOATs, gorgeous original press on vinyl. Sounds great on any system.

On my Mt. Rushmore of albums. If they changed the rating of this to 10 stars, I’d still want to give this one 20.

nice and smooth

Just straight beautiful. There’s not many albums with such a storied history as this, that deliver not only in its musical enjoyment, but also its messaging. I’ve never heard protest music be so beautiful, so soulful, and so uplifting. 5/5

One of the smoothest experiences that the world can confine to a 35-minute runtime, magical, sweet, and I certainly can't imagine much else matching up in its time

The intro of the title song starts a groove that doesn't stop, just an awesome album.

Beautiful, just beautiful!

This album really was made two decades ahead of its time

Of course, I've listened to this before. This is possibly the tightest, smoothest 35-minute album of all time. Packed with unforgettable tunes and powerful messages, this masterpiece of production is Gaye at his most memorable. Why is he so confused, though? What's going on?

Yeah this is really fucking good 5/5

This one got my gf pregnant

I think this is the most lush album that's ever existed. Barely songs imo just full lush sounds while Marvin Guy writes us his op ed essay about what the fuck is going on in 1971 America. Classic/10. A truly singular album that will never be recreated again by a once in a generation artist.

This is one of the best albums of all time. I love the soul and the themes throughout. I hate that so many issues from the 70s are still happening 50 years later. This album will still be one of the best albums of all time in another 50 years. Best Songs: What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me, Right On Worst Songs: NA

Love the way each song segues into the next. I was feeling very nauseous this evening, and this album put my head, chest, stomach to rest.

Album #6: What’s Going On - Marvin Gaye Genre (according to Wikipedia): Soul, progressive soul, psychedelic soul, R&B Singles?: What’s Going On, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler), Save the Children Have you heard any songs from this album or group before?: I’ve listened to this album twice before. I love it. I can’t wait to hear it again. I have also heard other Marvin Gaye songs like I Heard It Through the Grapevine, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, and It Takes Two. Thoughts?: I love this album so much!! I was elated when I got the opportunity to listen to this album for a third time. The story behind it is inspiring, and its messages are timeless and important, especially in today’s day and age. Everybody needs to listen to this album at least one time. His voice is perfect for the album, soft, reserved. The album reminds me of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and his philosophy about the world. “There’s one thing that evil cannot stand, and that is forgiveness.” - Fred Rogers, quoting his professor. Favorite songs: All of it!! As a writer, what can you use this music for when honing your craft?: I would use its messages to inspire works filled with social commentary. File correlations: Possibly File #004: C*O*M*A*T*O*S*E

The only album I've ever bought as a gift where I thought that I really should have just kept it for myself. Marvin Gaye has a reputation for being a horny songwriter but this is what I know him best for and for me, it is him at his best. This album is a long letter written to address a bunch of issues and at no point does it feel preachy or corny. It's a sincere, heartfelt and tender album. It definitely helps that the arrangement, lyrics and vocals here are S-tier. Seriously, this is a beautiful album. Highlights: What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology),

4.56/5 Stars Top Songs: What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me and What's Happening Brother

One of the best albums oat. This was the first soul album I ever listened to and fell in love with it. Yeah tbh it doesn’t hold up quite aswell when I first listened to it but it’s still amazing. Marvin Gaye was soooooo ahead of his time, with him giving himself adlibs throughout the whole album. Rip legend Fav Song: Mercy Mercy Me, What’s Going Ob 9.5/10