What's Going On

I remember listening to this when Rolling Stone updated their top 500 albuns list around 2020 and this took the number 1 spot. Not sure it'd be my number 1 but it's certainly up there and it's certainly a 5/5.

One of the bests ever

Never gets old.

Amazing Just beautiful

Oh I know what's going on!!!!

It’s peaceful, political, emotional, and timeless without even trying. Zero skips, zero flaws. Just perfection.

Not every song is a classic but overall a tremendous talent.

A powerful album, a testament about America in the 60s/70s. Struggles we're still having and will probably continue to have way past my demise. But this album will still be standing and be listened to by generations past me. Be thankful there's such beautiful, powerful music/voices in America.

This album fucking rocks never listened to him before, but I absolutely love this one. maybe a 5/5 or a 4.5/5

God album

A classic for a reason! While the songs do sound similar that seems to be part of the point and vibe of the album - easy to listen to and has a lot of passion/character behind it which I think is what I look for in music

Absolute classic, proud to own it on vinyl. My personal GOAT for Soul/R&B. Timeless tracks and the instrumentation beautifully supports Marvin Gaye's vocals

A short album with an incredibly strong message and incredibly great music. But as corny this may sound, why is the music still so relevant today? This album talks about racial inequality, class inequality, police brutality, and war that we as U.S. citizens don't want a hand in, and in the last 10 years as I'm writing this, why is it still happening? Why couldn't this album be a time capsule or a history text book of sorts of what was happening in the late 60s to early 70s instead of being damn near 100% accurate of what's been happening right now? Let's hope something changes and when it does we can look back at the music of now and think "Hey this is just like this masterpiece of an album from 1971."

There will be a time when the music doesn’t play and the children don’t sing. What a beautiful POV. The sax blowing through the noise at the beginning of the title track? Inject that shit in my veins. (Ecology) may be my favorite tho.

Classic from a classic!

I've already listened to his album (35). Classic with a capital C. James Jamerson's playing on this album is the Holy Book of electric bass guitar.

5 stars, despite mentioning Jesus. He makes up for it by mentioning fish being poisoned. Makes me want to listen to Enjoy an Album again.

A classic. I was a little irritated listening to it in Apple Music because they inserted space between the tracks. Concept albums like this run their tracks together so it feels more like what it is: one unified work.

So smooth. Everything a guy like Sinatra is not.

I think the only flaw you can really have about this album is that a lot of the songs sound the same. It's impeccably played and produced, they just don't make em like this anymore. And of course important commentary on society blah blah etc etc 4.6/5

pauroso

Questo è un album da ascoltare prima di morire. Voce incredibile e pezzi bellissimi, e pure la transizione da un brano all’altro è stupenda. Poi ho scoperto che msrvin ghey è ststo ucciso per errore dal padre RIP

album di una bellezza assurda, rientra nella mia top 10 5/5

Saw what album was today's and honestly, I felt immediate relief Love u Marvin Songs added to playlist: - What's Going On - Save The Children - Right On - Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

Bästa skivan!!

I feel I’d be doing a disservice to music if I didn’t give this 5 stars. Voice of a generation.

Classic and timeless love this album great vocal jazzist already had it downloaded but love it still

This is literally one of the greatest album I've ever heard. Makes me wanna be a better person.

An absolute classic and an amazing listen start to finish.

I could post lyrics that over 50 years later are still relevant. I could go on about how his life was cut way to short. I could say how this concept album is one of the best anti war albums ever. I could go off on the music, the lyrics the social impact this album has. Instead I will say this. What's going on is simply one of the best albums made.

I can't say individual songs will go to my library, but the album as a single piece of art if a masterpiece. It's musically amazing, i could listen to it all day. Marvin Gaye's voice is amazing, but the production and the actual melody is just outstanding, the best album of this project for me so far

Imagine releasing 10 albums and then dropping this.

Absolutely brilliant, start to finish.5/5

Five stars for mercy mercy me alone. One of my favourite songs ever. It levels you the second it starts.

Never before have I seen such strong willed political commentary that manages to be so wholesome at the same time. This album sees Marvin giving us some genuinely refreshing takes in such a beautiful way, but presents his ideas in such a way that he is showing how he is definitely not a pushover. And not to mention jow beautiful the actual music is, put all of that together and you have a damn perfect album.

Marvin ♥️♥️♥️ when I lived in Harlem there was a Hennessy billboard around the corner from my house of him ♥️♥️♥️ he could sing the phone book and I’d be smitten

This is one of the great albums of all time. A timeless masterpiece. The progression from Lets Get It On to this is incredible. This is a lush jazzy beautiful heartfelt call for social change. You can feel his pain and heart breaking for the state of Black culture with a deeply vulnerable and raw delivery.

SO good! I listened to What’s Going On a few times in a row. The lyrics, his smooth voice…loved it.

MG brings sexy to socially conscious music. This is an album in the truest sense of the word. Three absolute classics rise like hymns. In between the groove never flags. While not always a party the players are all having a great time. As immersive as any album of the era - vibes, knowledge and melody collide to put you in the room.

Amazing; can listen all day!

Classical music.

Isso aqui é de tirar o fôlego, te deixar sem palavras. Definir e falar sobre What’s Going On é uma tarefa herculeana, de dificuldade imensa. As canções deste álbum são experiências espirituais, e as palavras escapam quando você tenta sintetizar essas experiências. Mas vou tentar. Ajuda que este é um disco que sou bem familiarizado por já ter ouvido-o incontáveis vezes antes. Acredito que este disco e sua produção tenham sido um milagre. Simples assim, intervenção divina. Marvin Gaye era um ótimo artista, não se engane, mas analise a discografia dele e perceba que este álbum realmente se destaca de forma sobrenatural. Ele invocou alguma coisa inexplicável na produção dessa obra. Leia sobre sua produção, e complicações, ninguém queria que Gaye lançasse este álbum, ninguém acreditava nessa sonoridade. Tremendamente errados, eles estavam, e agora o disco reside confortavelmente no panteão dos maiores álbuns já gravados. Que história, hein. Isso aqui é um verdadeiro álbum, de capa a capa. Todas as canções possuem ligações temáticas e sônicas. O disco inteiro é como uma enorme e gigantesca canção. E que canção maravilhosa. Os vocais são angelicais e os instrumentais o adornam maravilhosamente, com menção honrosa à este fantástico baixo. Assim que você termina de ouvir o álbum você sente vontade de ouvi-lo novamente. Viciante, em essência. Muito se fala sobre a importância do comentário social levantado por Gaye neste disco. Eu dou crédito à isso, mas o meu foco é inteiramente na música, no som. O som que ele teceu é inigualável. As letras, se quiser analisar mesmo, são até simples, quando se olha para além do conteúdo incomum para um artista Motown na época. Mas a forma com que ele entrega seus vocais mostra o quão pessoal essas angústias realmente são. A violência que ele pessoalmente presenciou, os relatos do irmão veterano de guerra, a perda de uma grande parceira na vida, problemas familiares, enfim, toda escuridão de sua vida é transformada em 9 canções e 35 minutos de música absolutamente perfeitas. Não há defeito à ser apontado. Um disco perfeito. Parabéns à todos envolvidos. Toda vez que ouço este álbum meu espírito se enche. A alma transborda. 5/5

Marvin Gaye might just be the greatest soul singer I’ve ever heard. There’s a weight and tenderness in his voice that feels almost otherworldly — every note seems to carry both sorrow and hope. 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘎𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘖𝘯 is more than an album; it’s a living, breathing statement about love, faith, and humanity. From the opening title track to 𝘔𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘺 𝘔𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘺 𝘔𝘦 and 𝘐𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘉𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘴, the music flows as one continuous meditation, blending lush orchestration, subtle funk grooves, and Gaye’s deeply emotional delivery. Even over fifty years later, it feels completely timeless — a record that could have been made in 2025 and still speak to the same struggles and questions we face today. It’s soulful, political, spiritual, and profoundly human — one of those rare albums where every second feels essential.

Masterpiece. Sounds more relevant today than ever.

A really amazing album. An album about trying to figure things out. Political fear, war, violence, ecological disaster. An incredibly timely album, but one that also feels timeless. The production and musicianship is second to none. One of my favorite albums before starting this 1001 album journey, and it was a great experience getting to relisten to this.

The big hits on this album alone are enough for 5 stars.

Classic

Very beautiful, no notes

No notes. Perfect album. Unfortunately, just as relevant today as when it was released.

First time I've heard this album! Love the vibe. Every tune is a great one.

PERFECT 10/10

It is the most perfect production and orchestration and vocals and lyrics and timing and vibes of any album It’s like a movie score And it gave us “there’s a riot going on” in response

Marvin, so much is going on and a lot of it is not so good, but you keep a cheery disposition through it all. Every song is upbeat and sounds happy, even if the lyrics are serious and I wouldn't want it any other way.

Classic, great production, beautiful storytelling, everybody needs soul and anti war art

Do I even have to say anything about this one? Very few albums in the world of music have a reputation like that of What's Going On. Critically speaking, this is easily one of the most highly praised albums of all time. It's a shoe-in for a list such as this. It's easy to see why all of this is the case. What's Going On is a crowning achievement in popular music. What's Going On does things that had been done in music before. This wasn't the first album to tackle Vietnam. It wasn't the first concept album. It wasn't the first soul masterpiece. But never before had these elements been blended together in such a smooth, soulful way from such a mainstream artist as Marvin Gaye. It's albums like this that show us as a collective people what music can and should be; an artform. Music is, ultimately, a creative expression of the individual or group behind it. It allows people to express their complex thoughts in ways that will hopefully resonate with others. This is where What's Going On stands above much of its competition, especially of the time. The song cycle that forms the album acts as a complete artistic statement while also comprising some fantastic songs in their own right. The title track, "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)," "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)," and the other 6 songs work together to paint a picture of sorts. It also helps that the sounds and instruments at play are just gorgeous, while also having a sense of soul and slight funk-influences to aid in enjoyment. Despite not being much higher than the instruments in the mixing, Marvin Gaye's voice sticks out through its beauty. The lyrical themes of the album speak to the listener, while still remaining deeply personal to Gaye himself. I really don't have any issues with the album. While I myself wouldn't go as far as to call this the greatest album of all time, I can absolutely see why so many others have. It's a true work of art that only ages better and better with each passing year. It's What's Going On. 5/5.

Does not get any better than this

One of the best albums ever made

it’s brilliant, urgent without losing its lushness. his voice is so beautiful and compelling. fav tracks: what’s going on; right on; inner city blues (make me wanna holler)

Come on these are gimme’s lol.

mercy, mercy me (makes sense that this is the soul album of reference)

Oh God.... That's beautiful

Probably the greatest, most soulful anti-war album ever recorded. A beautiful listen! 5/5

Classic. No notes.

Ein absolutes Meisterwerk! Marvin Gaye verbindet seine Stimme mit zeitlosen Botschaften. Das Album klingt heute noch so frisch und relevant wie damals. Jeder Song ein Highlight, pure Gänsehaut! Die Songs fliessen ineinander wie ein einziges grosses Kunstwerk: elegant, emotional und voller Botschaft. Für mich ein Meisterwerk der Musikgeschichte und ein Album, das man nicht nur hört, sondern fühlt.

Timeless

Absolutely one of the best for me. It would be a fine collection of soul pop songs if that were all they were, but then the progressive and conceptual side is so strong. I love how the tracks have such a strong message. I love how the tracks evolve and search and find new forms. There is so much beautiful modal mixture and unexpected modulation that moves the music in unexpected directions.

Marvin’s finest work! What beautiful consciousness and tone on this album. A Masterpiece!

Social conscience & amazing soul

Album Art Review - The Man - Marvin looking peak. Cool font for the album title and artist's name. 6.5/10 Marvin is on the Mount Rushmore of soul singers and mayby my favorite. This album cements his transition from Motown crooner and collaborator to a political Voice of protest and the oppressed. We need him now!! Absolutely iconic Songs like What's Going On, Save the Children, Mercy Mercy Me and Inner City Blues are just as relevant today as they were 50 years ago and still sound great.

Y’a une raison pourquoi c’est un top 5 all Time dans 3/4 des listes

Classique des classique

35 délicieuses minutes de soul distillé. Quand j'écoute cet album je deviens Chrétien pour une demi-heure, bravo Marvin.

Masterpiece

Impressive

"Who really cares to save a world in despair?" This was unexpectedly political but very enjoyable. Most of what he's talking about in this album is still, sadly, very relevant today.

Absolute jams

10/10 The thing that kept coming to mind while listening to this album was just how good Marvin Gaye’s vocal performance is, Every note, from start to finish, is absolutely stunning. The instrumental composition and performances are also exceptional, but it’s so hard not to have your entire focus pulled by the vocal that you have to make a conscious effort to absorb everything else that’s going on. But just discussing the vocal performance here does the album a massive disservice. It’s a remarkable piece of social commentary, a masterclass in mood and tone, and an intensely personal exploration of the world around Marvin Gaye circa 1971. What’s also important to note is that releasing something like this was an incredibly bold move. Motown had typically been a hit single factory up to this point, and Berry Gordy didn’t even want to release the title track, only to turn back round and ask for a full album when it became their fastest ever selling single. It’s a fascinating work that really toys with the idea of this being a selection of individual songs, rather than a unified piece, and there are places where you can’t even tell where the transitions between songs happens without keeping an eye on the track count. There is so much groove and soul to this album that it almost drips out of the speakers, but it’s all laced with a deep undercurrent of wistful melancholy that just hooks into the emotional side of the brain and holds on tight. And with all of that said, it’s actually an album that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Looking at individual tracks, one might not fully appreciate the gravity of the work, or truly connect with the string of feeling that threads through the whole album, but listened to as a whole, it is a truly remarkable work that only gets better with repeat listens. What’s Going On - What a song. It’s got such a groove, an absolutely stunning vocal performance, and manages to be a successful social commentary without bashing you over the head with it. The composition is brilliant, with so many different elements that provide depth and nuance without overcrowding. It perfectly balances the groove with a feeling of melancholy to present a really unique tone.The strings are great, the percussion gives it a little bit of pep underneath everything. And the production is fantastic too. So well balanced. What’s Happening Brother - This is kind of a part 2 to ‘What’s Going On’. It carries the tone of that first track but takes the groove in a slightly different direction. I love the almost aimless stroll of the bass line. The backing vocals add a different flavour, and again Marvin is on point with the lead. It feels effortless. “And tell me, friend, how in the world have you been?” The delivery of that line gets me every single time. Flyin’ High (In The Friendly Sky) - And we drift into a dreamy number about heroin addiction. It’s a bit meandering, but when you connect it with the subject matter that really hooks things up and makes sense. There are some stunning moments in this and it touches base in various places in a remarkable way before drifting off again. Save The Children - And we slip into another track. Marvin’s voice soars and oh good lord, that vocal tone. It’s so rich. This track builds in intensity as the drums gradually become more full, and the saxophone drops in with some great little hooks. The final minute throws in a different groove, it’s almost like a different track and an intro to the next track. God Is Love - The combination of the funky bass, slow strings, the subtle groove of the drums and Marvin’s vocal doubling makes the hairs on my neck stand up every time. There’s something about this track that just hits me so hard. It’s just exceptional all round. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) - And quick transition, the groove sticks around but the tone switches to more of a lament. There’s a lot going on in the instrumentation for a lot of this album and it’s easy to miss it because Marvin’s voice just demands your focus, but when the instrumental section for this track has it’s moment, the players get to shine. The groove of the bass, some brilliant horns, piano, percussion, celeste (I think?), strings, the whole works. Right On - Continuing the theme of the second half of ‘Mercy Mercy Me’, there’s a bit more space for the players to have some fun. This is such a great, jazzy groove that oozes soul. There are places where it maybe drags a tiny bit, but there are also some really beautiful phrases and riffs that pop out here and there, and Marvin’s little bits and pieces of vocal are a delight. Wholy Holy - This is a more sparse effort that softly ebbs and flows. It feels like the parts drift away from each other and then just thrust back together again in little bursts. It keeps teasing little resolutions, but quickly returns to points of tension, setting us up for the finale. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) - Marvin’s vocal through the intro here is the epitome of soul. It’s so smooth and when he doubles up it’s so, so clean. The groove is restrained, but it just pulses so nicely. The build of the instrumentation is pretty special, too. The control of how instrumental parts dip in and out is exceptional. I absolutely adore some of his vocal harmonisations in this track. And then we get that lovely piano and vocal duet before the congas come in and we drift away.

Classic album. Generational Talent.

obvio

Amazing

Perfect album

Love it. Own it.

My favourite forever. This is more than a record. It's pure art, magic and a manifesto.

It's Marvin Gaye.

Stunningly so good

So smooth.

A voice for the ages. And this album feels as relevant now as it did back when it was released. A total classic. Favorites: What's Going On, God Is Love, Mercy Mercy Me Would I listen to it again: Yes

Absolutely fucking love this record

Love this album. Hits harder with everything going on lately. Great choice for today.

Classic album.

What a fantastic listen. Every song is a masterpiece. Gaye's vocals are simply just a joy to listen to. I love the continuity of this album and the fun instrumentation and composition of each of his songs. Definitely a new favourite album.

What a beautiful sound. Lush strings, twinkling bells, a flurry of woodwinds here and there, lots of small percussion, and layers of gorgeous vocals. It’s soothing, healing music for a broken world. The lyrics and the emotion of it all were hitting today. Everything Marvin Gaye sings about here — inequality, war, pollution — is top of mind in the news. His pleas for love, peace, understanding are as necessary today as they were half a century ago.

4.5

All time classic, I listened to the excellent Detroit 2022 mix. So good!

Masterpiece. The collective performances from the musicians on this record are effortless, near-perfect. Marvin's songwriting is pensively focused on war, poverty, ecological destruction, and drug addiction — the abstracted way he writes about these topics of universal struggle has cemented this record as forever timeless. The album also flows along seamlessly from one track to the next: this is one of those records I almost always have to listen to all the way through. I've listened to it hundred of times front-to-back and will surely listen to it hundreds more before I expire. Thank you Marvin!

One of the best discovery from this list. Never listened to an album of Gaye before, just knew the sexy songs. I was not expecting this depth and this story

Classic

Величие. Мастерпися. Король всех королей

Awesome.

best album of all time for a reason bro

Great album!

Classic

What an album! Great music, great arrangements and excellent lyrics and the voice! Start to finish classic, love it!

This is soul

Magnificently soulful and societal.

I love the message in this album. I love how much he can do while still making this a fun, upbeat, interesting, and impactful album. It's very nostalgic and funky and yet you can't help but feel moved from the way he sings and what the lyrics express. Fantastic album.

Timeless in the best way, relevant in the saddest way. At times it feels like being neck deep in rising water, but with a hand outstretched for you to grab ahold of

heard this many times already What's Going On - 5/5 What's Happening Brother - 5/5 Flyin' High (In the Friendly Sky) - 4/5 Save the Children - 4/5 God Is Love - no rating Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) - 5/5 Right On - 4/5 Wholy Holy - 4/5 Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) - 5/5 Average score: 4.5/5 (rounding up) essential, period

Masterpiece. This time I really focused on how much the melodies return throughout the album

The songs on this are great.

Nice album, given the current status of the world. Good flow between songs, nice theming 5/5

What's Going On - 9/10 What's Happening Brother - 8.5 Flyin' High - 9 Save The Children - 8 God Is Love - 9 Mercy Mercy Me - 9 Right On - 10 Wholy Holy - 9,5 Inner City Blues - 9 90/100

Some albums don't need a debate. This one is undeniable. Please stop portraying that you like music if you give this anything less than 3 stars.

Deserves all its accolades. Gaye's voice is beautiful, lush arrangements and social conscience. Mercy Mercy Me is my favorite track.

Such a beautiful album from start to finish. Marvin Gaye’s finest work and perhaps the greatest album of the 70’s, if not of all-time. An essential album for any true music fan.

A Motown album with something to say. Because it had something to say it was actually released on a minor label owned by Motown. Beautifully performed with thought promoting lyrics. Listen to it in one sitting. Stand out tracks. What's going on Mercy, mercy me Inner city blues Worthy of 5 stars

Totalement ma came, j'ai adoré. J'ai liké quasiment toutes les chansons de l'album et je pourrais totalement écouter ça régulièrement, 5/5

Such emotional depth. Often you struggle to hear just how impassioned an artist is with their lyrical content. Not here. Sheer, raw emotion and beautifully crafted from beginning to end.

It's a terrible feeling listening to this beautiful, sad music knowing that everything bad in the world in 1971 is still happening in one way or another 55 (!) years later.. benefits being stripped away from veterans, police brutalizing peaceful antiwar protesters, the vulnerable being vilified and oppressed, children overseas getting bombed and starved with our government's support while also stripping school lunch and medical benefits from the children in our own country. The music on this album still feels just as powerful as I'd imagine it was back then, with the message ever-enduring.. and unfortunately it proves that nothing ever changes due to man's animalistic greed and selfishness. Anyway, a great album and Inner City Blues is a banger.

53/1001 Marvin Gaye - What's Going On Heard before? ✅ Revisit? ✅ At first, Motown bosses rejected this for it being too political and not on brand for the label, but Gaye convinced them to release it. The themes on this are still as timely now as they were back in the 70s. It's an album that musically looks back with the soulfulness and yet is looking forward with anxiety about the future and a nation tearing itself apart through hatred, suffering and injustice with the backdrop of the Vietnam War. The songs are flow into one and feels as they should all be listened to in one sitting. An absolute all-timer for me.

YES.

What an album, the perfect example of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts, a very cohesive and well put together album that is super easy to listen to and super chill and doesn’t overstay its welcome, the vocal performances are amazing and the groves are super awesome.

Awesome. Would love to have.

BEST SONGS: - Flyin' High - Right On

Listened to before, great album.

One of the best albums of all time.

This has been one of my favorite albums since I was a kid, and it's a little heartbreaking to note that the issues and societal ills Gaye addresses directly in these songs -- environmental crises, racism, poverty, police brutality -- haven't improved in the more than 50 years since the album was released. A gorgeous, powerful, inspiring, and often heartbreaking collection of songs.

Marvin Gaye’s magnum opus. Deeply moving album that continues to resonate to this day. Sadly, Gaye’s concern’s regarding America’s social, racial, and ecological ills have not diminished in anyway. The use of Gaye’s layered vocals (used in a kind of call and response manner) are a brilliant touch to the stellar production of this album. I’ll never tire of listening to this record.

let's see just how 80s we can be on this shit. I've never, ever, been a big super 80s guy, and this reeks of it. It stinks.

We didn't listen

Considered the greatest album of all time, it was a correct album indeed.

Really really solid album Love the sounds and tones and textures Pure 70s sound. Can see where a lot of the hip hop sounds and samples originated from.

Great!

Perfect soundtrack for the times. Still relevant.

classic

One of my favorite albums of all time and the greatest protest/socially conscious record ever. Still completely relevant, every song, every lyric, not a thing has changed since Marvin first sang these songs. And of course, the music is incredible and Marvin’s vocals are impeccable. A desert island disc for me.

Cool, earnest, and relevant still today. I could have done without the religious content, but it was delivered in such a genuine and smooth way it didn't bother me in the end.

Right on…excellent protest anthem for peace and justice and harmony

Sweet mother of Jesus.

Simply Perfect. Marvin said this album was God speaking through him. If there is a God, Marvin's God is who we need right now.

In my collection, of course, no doubt about this record, the best "songs to make love to"' record. An all time classic! 5/5

Right on.

Phenomenally good!

A bonafide classic stuffed with classic songs, how this isn't in the top 20 is a mystery to me, almost makes me wanna holler... OK, maybe a little too religious, but it is what it is.

Ethereal and awesome. I don’t realize when it ended because it feels like one idea.

amazing no notes. surprised at how much i liked this

First: This is one of my all time favourites, but I tried to listen to it freshly. The only thing I could say against it that the songs all kinda sound the same when listening on a superficial level. But then, I'm on the train, watch out of the window and listen to "Mercy Me" and it brings tears to my eyes like no other music does. So graceful, forgiving, loving. The sound of Marvin's voice: divine. The bass line: so funky. The background vocals. Everything fits so well together. And there's like 5 tracks like this on this album. On top of this the fact that Marvin evolved from the Motown sound and pushed for artistic freedom, recorded the album without any support, then was opposed by the Motown founder, went on strike until a single was released and was so successful that the full album was released. This alone is quite a feat, together with the fact that it's a superb album - there can't be anything lower than 5 stars.

Perfect

The album was truly amazing and thought provoking

Day566 - does it get much better than this? i don’t think so

Iconic.

10/10 perfect album no flaws

Concept album about God, the environment, and love for fellow man (?). Hear a lot of Prince in here.

First, the burning question - is this the greatest album of all time?? No, it isn't. Rolling Stone's ranking of it as such was a blatant reaction to BLM. For all black musicians' innumerable contributions to music, the album format was traditionally utilised to greater effect by white musicians, who refined the album. This is why Revolver and Pet Sounds usually sit atop these lists, and I don't think I'd put this album above either of those (although, I think this was better on first listen than Pet Sounds) However, it is a very, very good album. Like the best albums (in my view), it's a journey. There's this magical, natural transition between songs, and the first side has this wonderful ongoing crescendo that can't but sweep you up in the almost religious power of the music. This is in no small part due to the orchestra which complements Gaye's lyrics perfectly. Truly, this is soul at its finest. Unfortunately the LP format necessitates a break in the middle of the album, but the songs on side 2 are strong too (even if I feel that Inner City Blues doesn't quite fit in with the rest of the album). Gaye's lyrics are famously deeply political, touching subjects as diverse as the Vietnam War, environmental issues, racism and drug abuse. However, the album remains positive and hopeful throughout, and he emphasises his beliefs that God forgives, rather than condemning those responsible for these issues. Unfortunately, some of my ratings have been a bit biased by foreknowledge, and this may be one of them. I've never heard this album before, but I got it today knowing that it was a big one. I am not sure I can honestly say I'd be giving 5 stars without this bias, but fuck it, objectively it is a 5-star album. I think the title track is my favourite song here; however, Save the Children is where I realised this is a five star album, and is certainly a contender for the spot.

An album I have heard endless times since childhood in fact I remember in grade school (5th or 6th grade) writing a review for the school paper (Silverwing Elementary School) once! Now here I'm all grown up writing another review. This is a Top 100 album for me and quite possibly the greatest soul album ever released (with the only real contender to the throne being Curtis by Curtis Mayfied from a year earlier,1970) it's flawless, powerful and beautiful, the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band of soul music. Some people marvel at how relevant 'What's Going On' is in 2025. I don't. I think as long as humans roam the earth (for better or worse) this work of art will be relevant. Lord have mercy!

Really great sound and drew me in with the story.

Excellent album that got even better on a 2nd listen. Each song flows into the next, and the music is engaging throughout.

I wanted to wait until I got this on vinyl to listen to it for the first time but this felt like fate - what an album. Played it all weekend. Easy 5 stars

Despite sounding pretty confused about the whole thing, this album is actually a concept album about a man returning home after the vietnam war. Musically, politically, and spiritually one of the most ironically cognizant albums of its time and for generations to come.

Great albums need 3 key elements: Music (lyrics, composition) + Production (engineering, mixing) + Influence (how did it change the art of music?). Granted, these are all subjective because, well, it’s art. But it is tough to argue this isn’t one of the greatest 10 albums ever produced. Easy 5.

Classic album

I was stoked when this album popped up. Never listened to it, though I had heard a few of these songs a number of times. What really stood out to me was two things: 1. The way this album never really seemed to break, at least up through Mercy, Mercy Me. Everything just flowed into each other. I thought that was very cool. It did lead to the first part of this album sounding relatively homogenous, but since that sound was great, that didn't end up being a negative. 2. That this album has a really distinct and serious viewpoint, very pointed, and yet was light in it's approach at the same time. Excellent dichotomy. Mercy, Mercy Me is a song that I absolutely love. Admittedly, I am more used to hearing the Robert Palmer version, but the original is awesome. Great tune. Of course, everyone has heard this one and the title track too, which is a great song as well. But there were a bunch of other ones in this which were excellent like Flyin High. Right On was the one track that I wasn't really enamored with. This seemed to go on too long and wandered a bit aimlessly at times. The theme is good, no doubt, but this could have been much tighter. But that's nitpicking. Inner City Blues is a great tune, excellent way to close this album. Really great album.

Truly some baby-making music. Honestly, every song on this album was just good listening

This album was a nice surprise. I knew I was going to like it because it's Marvin Gaye and "What's Going On" and "Mercy Mercy Me" are two of my favorite songs by him, but I didn't expect to love this album like I did. I know I've criticized albums for songs sounding the same, but this felt like one long song but in a good way, which apparently was the point since this is considered a "song cycle" album. The story it told was compelling too. Perhaps it's just the world we're living in right now, but a lot of the songs and the vibe really resonated with me. This is definitely Marvin Gaye's best album, and it deserves its place on the list.

Automatic

One of a kind

Wonderful Marvin!!!

I had no idea how political this would be. A real great example of a concept album. Silky smooth music and vocals combined with strong lyrical story telling. Good shit

Delightful. I listened, then listened again. Just because.

Me gusta

Marvin Gaye is soothing at any time. But right now, I'm listening to this album just after Limp Bizkit, and in comparison, Gaye is absolute bliss. It's not just his amazing voice, or his outlook on life, or the blend of calm and passion. It's also the flawless production, which still holds up entirely, 54 years after release. And it's the breadth and depth of quality throughout the album. Fantastic record by a fantastic musician.

The songs are just so perfectly crafted. The production on this and obviously Marvin’s vocals are just on point. Album openers dont get much better than ‘What’s going on’. As someone who quite often finds soul music a bit blah, i cannot speak highly enough about this album.

When one of the greatest songs in the world is your opening track, you set yourself up for listening to a masterpiece - thankfully, this is exactly what this album is. The title track remains as relevant today as it was in 1971 and, along with every other track on the album, demonstrates that politics and protest music doesn’t need to sound angry - sometimes, it can sound as beautiful as this.

The album generator has taught me to approach an album where the most famous song is the first track with an element of caution. But this time I needn't have worried because this is a fantastic album. Yes, Gaye has a gorgeous voice, but also the lyrics are amazing, the music is beautiful. Just a great, great record. 5/5

Can't believe I've never sat through this in one sitting. Wow.

This is one of the greatest albums of all time. So much soul, so much groove. It’s a shame more people don’t know this album by heart. I bet Lamp’s a bitch too

Incredible

real nice

Masterpiece

Eternal. Fantastic vibe and songwriting.

joyous and beautiful. loved.

Pretty easy to review this album as it is one of my favorites of all time. It's a really brilliant protest album that has stood for quite a while as one of the all time greatest. The beats and the lyrics are phenomenal, I could listen to it over and over and never get tired of it. The album is pretty much perfect as far as I'm concerned. I enjoy the entire thing from beginning to end. There is never a point where I space out, it has my attention the whole time even after so many listens throughout my lifetime.

This is such a touchstone - I know in my own reviews here, I've already used a variation on "this was supposed to be [artist]’s What's Going On." As well as proving that I'm not that original, I think the fact that you can use this album as shorthand for a socially conscious masterpiece says it all.

Huge amazing

Classic, will always get all the stars. This record is it!

A smooth, funky, and deeply moving album where Marvin Gaye masterfully addresses war, the environment, racism, and hope. It's easy on the ears but hits hard with its political and emotional messages. A complete classic that still feels hauntingly relevant today. 5/5

Something of a “Pet Sounds” of Motown, with incredibly rich orchestration and a fantastic vocal performance from Gaye. It’s also an unavoidably “important” record, dealing with a variety of political themes that still resonate today. The big three of “What’s Going On”, “Mercy Mercy Me”, and “Inner City Blues” are tremendous, and “Right On” is a great groove. Some of the other songs, notably “Save The Children” fall a bit flat and feel dated. But on the whole, it’s the real deal.

Kommer lige over til 5/5 fordi produktionen er SÅ god. Jeg elsker hvordan alle numrene flød ind i det næste

Never sat down to listen to this album. Didn't realize it was progressive R&B, which is interesting. I never realized how similar whats going on and mercy mercy me were. Just thought it was a motown kind of sound, but it turns out it was deliberate. Kinda cool, but I am not sure about it. This whole album is just one long song, that is pretty cool. It also feels like "I heard it through the grapevine" will happen at any moment on that later tracks. This was a complete album, with themes connecting the end to the beginning and vice-versa. Excellence.

Meh

very inquisitive album. idk what's going on either

One of the best albums ever in my opinion. Six stars.

Actual classic

A beautiful album by a beautiful person.

when I look at the world, it fills me with sorrow

"Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)" will be the last song I ever listen to via this project. What a triumphant way to end it.

"Mercy mercy me" +2, solid album from start to finish, social commentary and catchy.

What can I say that hasn't been said. If this isn't a solid 5, some of y'all are not truly listening. This is why it's called Soul now, because you invest yourself and your future self in this masterpiece. The beginning of a legendary run of albums.

Groovy with great vocals, what more could you want? The songs all did sound very similar, that's my one complaint.

So ahead of his time it's impressive.

Well, certainly one of my favourite albums. And historically important. No wonder Rolling Stones consider it the best album of all times (status: list from 2020).

Top tier soul album, the transition from God is Love to Mercy Mercy Me is transcendent

Classic fantastic album

A great album, Honestly timeless. 0 skips, all great grooves. The flow from song to song is virtually seamless. Being forced to listen to this daily would not be a punishment.

Wow! Social injustice, war, police brutality, environmental destruction - I had never heard this album and it's not my typical choice of genre but this album was great from beginning to end.

100/100.

The album you play when world peace happens. Favourite Songs: What's Going On, Flyin' High (In the Friendly Sky), Save the Children, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler). Least Favourite Songs: God Is Love.

A stone cold classic. I haven’t listened to the album in over 30 years. The song that I loved this time around was “Right On.”

A pagentry of soul

Easy 5 star

Easy 5/5

Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On is often described as a “landmark album,” which is confusing because it’s not a building, a statue, or even a hill. But metaphorically, it’s a hill—a big soulful one where Marvin stands at the top shouting, “Guys, the world’s on fire!” Released in 1971, at a time when America was knee-deep in war, smog, and moustaches, the album was Marvin’s way of asking, “What’s going on?”—a bold question considering nobody’s really known since about 1842. The songs are smooth and sad, like a dolphin weeping into a velvet cushion, and they tackle issues like environmental collapse, inner-city poverty, and people generally being a bit rubbish to each other. One track, “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)”, is basically Marvin apologising to the planet, which is impressive because most people don’t even say sorry when they hit a pigeon with a Segway. Listening to the album is like attending a very funky United Nations meeting, where every delegate is Marvin Gaye and they all brought bongos. It changed the way people thought about soul music, turning it from “Let’s dance and fall in love” to “Let’s sit down and have a serious think about systemic injustice while still dancing a little bit.” Marvin went rogue from Motown’s usual policy of singing about sugar and heartbreak and instead created a sonic tapestry of concern, sorrow, and flutes. The album still sounds fresh today—like it was recorded in the future and sent back to warn us, which would explain why it’s so eerily accurate about everything we’re still ignoring. In many ways, What’s Going On predicted the modern world: rising inequality, environmental disaster, and the constant sense that nobody knows what they’re doing—including, probably, Marvin himself, who at least had the decency to ask.

Oh I just know this is going to be so, so good. I think I’ll probably listen to it late at night tonight while I’m packing for Gdańsk. :)) Yupp. Easy 5/5. Wow, just wow. His voice and the production are both so silky and so, so emotive.

Marvin ilohuuli huhhuh

Marvin Gaye was such a soulful singer. I can only imagine how this album, especially its title track resonated, at the time. I think it resonates with me today. Maybe I shouldn’t have (or should have) been reading the news while listening to this. Some of the synth orchestra pieces still come off as dated, but it still works when considering the context. Mercy Me is right there in the pocket of the times, but I have to say that the groove of Right On was a key track today. That song is due for a Renaissance. This might be his most politically motivated album, but I respect the call for hope and togetherness it provides. This is a classic!

Random thoughts: * This is Marvin Gaye's masterpiece. * The social consciousness album still means as much today as it did in 1971, part because the music is so good and we still have so far to go as a country and civilization. * What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me, and Inner City Blues are the standout tracks here but the whole album just flows wonderfully. * I'm going to have to listen to this one a few more times.

I have listened to this album. I think I like it more than I did prior. I always liked Marvin Gaye’s songs. I would own this on vinyl.

loved it

4.5-5

This album is genuinely a classic, I’m so glad that I listened to it. It’s all the way through. It’s one of those that I can appreciate the influence hat on modern music, while being so smooth, the court progressions are great. Marvin‘s voice is amazing, And the messaging behind each one of the songs is premier. One of the best of all time. Five out of five.

I love everything Marvin Gaye does. First album in a while that finished and I thought “oh done already?” So good. No notes

Favorites: What’s Going On, What’s Happening Brother, Save The Children, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Man, words cannot begin to describe the genius of What’s Going On. Marvin Gaye stands as the voice of the oppressed and takes a stand against inequality on the back of some of the most gorgeous soul you’ll ever hear. A timeless record, both sonically and topically, and one that feels just as poignant in 2025.

Would relisten

So smooth.

As perfect an album as there ever was.

One of the greatest jazz albums

One of the greatest R&B records and one of the greatest pieces of art ever. Marvin Gaye poured his entire soul into this album and created one of the most heartfelt, emotional, and beautiful soul records of all time. The concept and the message behind the album are so pure, so timeless, and the writing is absolutely at its peak. The production is top notch too, lush, smooth, layered, and it really defined what soul could sound like while shaping the genre forever. Marvin himself is one of my favorite vocalists, and his performance here is nothing short of divine. his voice carries pain, love, hope, and beauty all at once. Honestly, I can’t really find a single flaw with this record. It’s a perfect 10/10 album in every sense. Every time I return to it, it gives me such a good feeling, almost like a reminder that this kind of greatness exists to make life better. It’s one of those rare albums that feels alive, like it still breathes decades later.

Poifect

Marvin Gaye, simply the best...

Great on repeat

Absolutely beautiful, great messaging, Marvin Gaye is one of the greats

This is a gem. The entire album just flows

War is not the answer

it is what’s going on by marvin gaye

Really enjoyed this

Oh yeah

A Classic. Such a distinctive, soulful sound that has never been replicated. These are great songs, unlike the M. Gaye album i reviewed earlier, which was all his sound, without the song. A five.

Five stars and a therapy session.

This is an incredibly cohesive album. The songs are not the same and do not sound the same, but each one flows into the other one so well. A very impressive example of a concept album that does not feel disjointed. I knew 3-4 of these songs but had never sat down and listened to the whole thing. It's hard to pick out the highlights but I will say that God is Love and Wholy Holy are the only two songs that I would not consider to be worthy of the rest of this album. What I find to be so exemplary is how Marvin Gaye is writing protest music but it is just so laid back and within the flow of the orchestration. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) has always been my favorite track on here and that has not changed. Good statement album.

One of the great albums I've ever heard. Legendary voice and delivery. A landmark in song construction and in social commentary

Nice! Good album!

If you didn't know that it was a concept album, you can think of it s a song cycle. Either way it works. REALLY well. People older than me probably remember when this came out. 14 years later, Marvin Gaye was gone, and a re-examination of this music made people realize how great this album is. My only gripe is I felt the strings in "Mercy, Mercy Me (The Ecology) were a bit heavy handed, particularly combined with the mellotron. But otherwise, this a classic album, one I will come back to over and over. Top tracks: Title track, "Wholy Holy," "Inner City Blues". (But as a whole, the other tracks are almost as good.)

There are greater 5 star albums, but I'm still giving it 5 stars. It's at least a 4.5. For a soul artist, Marvin Gaye finally pours out his soul, not just with his vocals but with some deep, deep lyrics and themes. It's his writing that really makes this album a standout. He tackles some bleak subjects but with a hopeful attitude (most of the time). My biggest gripe is the finishing touches - he set out to transition from one song to the next so it feels like one big song, but the splicing is off, especially on the first half of the album. Still, these songs are powerful. Not just the well known ones (title track, Mercy Mercy Me, Inner City Blues) but also the lesser known ones (What's Happening Brother, Flyin High, Save the Children). Right On might be the best song on this album next to What's Going On - complex lyrics, wicked grooves, jamming for 7+ minutes.

Smooth grooves over hard lyrics. Musically outstanding, both the writing and the playing, and I love how most of the tracks flow into each other. Plus, Marvin Gaye may have had the smoothest voice in history. If you didn't pay attention to the lyrics, you'd think it was just some smooth let's get it on type music. But then the lyrics create such a jarring contrast. Protests, war, drugs, pollution, poverty. Yet there are also moments of hope on the album. There are a lot of albums on the 1001 that make me question their inclusion. There's no doubt that this is an essential album and demands a close listen. Outstanding - and sad that a lot of it is still relevant. Favorite tracks: What's Going On (I liked a comment on Genius - notice that it's not a question. He's not asking, he's telling us what's going on), Mercy Mercy Me (so smooth while talking about the destruction of the environment - but, hey, that sax solo is awesome!), then the entire second side - Right On, Wholy Holy (love how this track is almost like a relaxing breath after the tension of Right On), and Inner City Blues.

I love this album for years, but them I began to tire of it and play it much less. 'Save The Children', for example, is a bit too earnest and wearying. But I listened to it again today after a break and it was great.

Loved the album. The music is soulful and smooth. The lyrics are powerful--would like to listen to it again to pay more attention to the message.

Rolling Stone rated this the best album in the world in 2022. I would be hard pressed to disagree. Granted there are a lot of albums out there and I primarily consider myself to be a rock fan, but this album just can't stop getting better. As a bass player myself, James Jamerson is a god of the trade and no matter how grueling the vocals are about the reality of life in that era, we will always know what's going on.

Love this one

I mean, exactly what you want, done well. First 5 star album!

Five stars

The Motown Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Denser in sound than any Motown album that came before, Marvin Gaye seized creative control of his music with both hands and created an enduring message of tenderness in a cruel world. It's over 50 years old and still stands as one of the greatest albums ever recorded.

Obviously

Total classic. Very good 10:10

Ik vind het album echt wel goe, de soul is echt aan het soulen. Het eerste nummer “what’s going on” is zo een mooi nummer. Ik vind het dus echt een aanrader.

I rate Whats going on a 5 star because the beat is good and the dynamics are good ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. I rate Mercy mercy me a 5 star because the beat is good and the dynamics are good ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and the drums and gutr are good. I rate Inner city blues a 5 star because the beat is good and the dynamics are good ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and the drums and gutr are good.

I like this album because he has a very good voice and it goes well with his lyrics and there is a good beat. I also like this song because I think it has a special meaning since he is coming home from Vietnam im guessing war

For What's Going On and Ecology alone, this album is an all-time classic. The rest is icing on the cake

Masterpiece!

Loved it.

Pretty amazing album. Love how it is so melodic and lush and at the same time tries to be a little politically confrontational. A true classic. 4.5/5

Amazing album- maybe should go into the category of what is old is new again 5/5 #musicsky #albumsky day 16

The Rolling Stone Magazine's most recent album ranking has this listed as the greatest album of all time. I wouldn't be lying if I said I wasn't excited to listen to this album. Interestingly enough, this album isn't among the highest rated albums in this generator(granted, it does have high ratings). From a political standpoint, Marvin Gaye was ahead of his time. He beautifully sang about racism, police brutality, populist issues, and even threw in some of his religious beliefs to prove these ideas can coexist. Overall, it was a great soul album with some of the best singing I've ever heard, as well as an array of instrumental talent throughout the album. With that being said, it's still far from the greatest album I've ever heard in my entire life. Favorite Track: "What's Going On".

An absolute masterpiece. One of the few vinyl albums that I've added to my collection in the recent vinyl resurgence.

Od svih klasičnih albuma ovaj mi je nekako najklasičniji baš se nekako osjetiš ko govno i josip bošnjak ako ovo ne voliš

1971. Soul. R&B. progressive soul. psychedelic soul

custom_rating:9

Amazing, cohesive, powerful record

One of the greatest albums ever made. The RnB and soul heals you spiritually. Not a single miss on the album, just a timeless classic. Marvin Gaye THE GOAT

It’s Gaye

Pure class. Can't fault it.

When you get perfect vocals with perfect instrumentals, an easy 5 star album. Thanks for the update Marvin!

Gaye took Come to My Garden's hippie sensibilities out of the garden and introduced it to the men sleeping under newspapers on park benches. all of a sudden, the flower power shifts from being carefree to being pointed, giving serious thought about the condition of the world as it strolls from topic to topic. it doesn't have any concrete solutions. Marvin is wearing a coat on the cover to shield himself from the rain, but his face is still soaked. he isn't blind to trouble outside, he just wants to survive it. i always wondered why i'd never heard a single from this thing, despite hearing so much of Marvin Gaye's music casually. turns out it's because it's only complete as a whole piece. this is probably transcendent on vinyl.

Draped in pleasantries A smoothness beyond reason Pleads for betterment

Incredible flow. A masterpiece!

Rolling Stone got one thing right when they recently ranked this the #1 album of all time- deserved. A+

I needed this album! So full of soul ans rebellion, but amazingly smooth and infectious. A classic for me no doubt!

I experienced this album as flowing from one end to the other. A great voice. And some great songs. Lived it.

5 stars for the song “What’s Going On” alone.

SAVE THE BABIES‼️ Literally perfect. Musical intercourse. This is an all timer if there ever was one. This album is overflowing with soul and beauty its impossible not to be swept up in its grandeur. All of the songs here are great on their own but together they create one of the finest album listening experiences of all time. The title track is a top 5 song of all time. I MEAN IT. That song and the album as a whole never get old no matter how many times I hear it. Favorite track: What's Going On

Stone Cold Classic. Nothing else to say. 10/10

Few vocalist will ever reach the summit of Marvin Gaye's talent. This album still stands up today as one of the most gorgeously arranged R&B albums, and Gaye's voice will stand as a gold standard for generations to come.

One of the best albums ever.

Soulful and powerful.

Absolutely one of the best. Poetry and music.

What can you say about one of the best albums of all time?

Classic

Definitely a 5 star album. His voice is so smooth and the song writing is amazing. I heard Mercy Mercy Me before and What's Going On but nothing else before. I loved that all the tracks blended together really nicely after Mercy Mercy Me and I really liked the extended Right On. I'll be revisiting this in the future for sure.

What a classic. Important lyrics that touched on real problems that are all too relevant even today. Beautiful grooves. James Jamerson's bass on this album is a masterclass. And Marvin Gaye's voice is amazing.

Now, then, and always a 5. Beautiful, soulful voice, grooves, and sax, gently and urgently calling a nation to its conscience. Sterling.

Incredible. Easily one of my favs of the time and genre. One of those unique voices that guides you on a journey.

i mean cmon

if someone said this is, in their opinon, the best album of all time, i wouldn’t even be mad

I love how "soulful" and heartfelt all the songs sound. 9/10

Loved this album, great music, 5 stars all day!

Marvin Gaye - What's Going On It's albums like these that make music more enjoyable to listen to. From start to finish, this album is incredibly consistent in terms of quality and it really trascends through time as an unique album from any other that was made by then. This is a generational album made by a generational artist like Marvin Gaye was. Rarely will anyone be able to replicate what Marvin did with this. This is beautiful. 1.- What's Going On = 10/10 2.- What's Happening Brother = 10/10 3.- Flyin' High (In The Friendly Sky) = 9/10 4.- Save The Children = 8/10 5.- God Is Love = 8/10 6.- Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) = 10/10 7.- Right On = 9/10 8.- Wholy Holy = 8/10 9.- Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) = 10/10 FINAL SCORE: 9.1/10

Absolutely essential.

I knew Mr Gaye earilier but I haven't had a chance to listen to his full album. After this honestly... nothing changed. Sometimes you see things like coldplay here and you question credibility of this whole endevour. The Man is a classic for a reason and has no wonder he earned a spot or two on this list.

Another one of the best albums of all time

About as good as music gets. Everything, from the instrumentation to the lyrics to the vocals.

An all time classic, just a great album through and through. In my opinion it is easily his best work. A great listen, especially when I can listen on vinyl!