What's Going On

favourite song: save the children shouldve heard this before

It’s a must listen. But is it great? The three singles are. The band is of course superb. Marvin is probably singing the best he ever did. The cultural impact of this is still felt 50 years down the track. But according to the wiki article, Greg kot was in a minority, feeling that the three singles were worthy, but the rest of the album was 'meandering introspection'. I want to disagree but I can’t. It gets five stars, but not for itself, but its context.

I would listen to Marvin Gaye, here at the height of his powers, sing the telephone book. This deliberately cohesive suite of smooth, but politically right-on, soul was massively influential. Berry Gordy hated it until it sold a zillion copies and spawned three hit singles. And it a fantastic listen. I am tempted to sing the praises of this album at length, but, really, you should just go listen to it. This is one of the few absolute, no arguments, must-hear albums on the list.

A politically aware album reflecting the ongoing changes in 19702 America

Undeniably a classic, smooth as hell from front to back with something to say. One of those albums where I would actually take your musical opinions a little less seriously if I knew you hadn't heard this.

What a beautiful album from a legendary singer whose life was cut way too short.

Very good and I knew some of his songs.

songs dealing with the anti-war movement, drug addiction, an increasingly darker world, apathy, and love. Religious undertones throughout, harkening back to a childhood of belief - and presumably a continued belief. Inner city blues comes in to end the album with a very honest consideration of how the inner city black families see the lack of support from the government, even the rest of the country.

Great album, seems like a concept album really. Same motif follows throughout. Unique sound, nice groove

Legit a top 5 album ever. Loved it

great R&B soul

classic motown sound

Not much more you can say about this album that hasn't been said, it's iconic.

Better than I remember, no filler, vocals at their best.

Nothing to add. Stone cold five.

LOVED this one! How can you go wrong with Marvin Gaye? That voice, those lyrics. The power in his words. This is the kind of album that makes me grateful I'm doing this "challenge."

I remember buying this record on vinyl and let me tell you what a great idea they was. Amazing album

The best.

van sommige album vraag je je af waarom ze in de top 1001 staan. Van dit album hoor je gelijk waarom het in de top behoort.

the best

I love it except for the simultaneous vocal takes. The instrumentation and concept is amazing though.

Yea

Ok, don’t really need to listen to this one as it is already one of my favorite all time albums by probably my all time favorite singer.

Weirdly, the album that I have been thinking about most while listening to this one is Rage Against the Machine's first album. They aren't similar at all sonicly, but RATM's first album is one of those that I think could have been released at any point since it first dropped and it would have still been considered a mind-blwoing accomplishment. This album is another one. If Marvin Gaye released it this year, I still feel like this album would have a huge impact. It's so excuisite, meticulously produced, and yet it doesn't sound constrained at all. It's beautiful and thoughtful, sensitive yet confident in itself. It is a perfect album, the kind that you wait for it to finish so that you can start back at the beginning and experience it all over again 5/5

Unreal gem

One of my top albums of ALLLLLLL TIME‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️ it’s simply perfection even the wailing SAVE THE BABIES yes we should!!!

Knew him before. Like hist style! personal top3 in no order: What‘s Happening Brother Right On Wholy Holy

taste is most certainly objective but anyone who tries to tell you this is not the greatest album in history is a contrarian and a liar and they’re not your friend

What’s Going On I remember buying it at Durham and liking it, but not really understanding why everyone thought it was so great. Listening as an older person with hopefully more of an appreciation of different types of music and more of an understanding of the lyrical and thematic scope, I can really understand how good it is. It really is fantastic. The songs are great, the sequencing, the themes and motifs slipping in and out. I love the sound, particularly the bass as the lead melodic instrument working with the string arrangements. And Marvin’s voice is just so so good, that mellow, mellifluous tone contrasting with the anger in the lyrics. When I was 20, it probably would have been 3 or 4 but I’m going to give it 5 now. I do really think it’s up there with the best albums ever recorded. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great singing, great song flow. The bass playing is wild, just wild, a masterpiece in how much weird chromatic stuff you can do without distracting from the rest of the song. This is a rarity for me, an album I think is top tier without songs that have a huge draw individually. I suspect this is the strings & stuff smoothing over the dynamic changes I want to hear - which are there, all over - and I'd like individual songs a lot if it was more sparse. I found the Detroit Mix and that's still not quite it, I want even less stuff. I want to hear the bit of drum rattle & room reverberation at every little stop, ex. Marion Black's "Who Knows". I will admit this is perhaps absurd. music: appreciated. (⌐o_o)

How could someone possibly make something so beautiful as this. 5.5⭐️

A classic

There’s a reason it tops Rolling Stones albums list. Also the Dolby Atmos mix on Apple Music sounds incredible

Who doesn't love Marvin? Smooth. Great lyrics. Interesting melodies, beats, mix. Never get tired of listening.

Album flows so incredibly well. His voice is just amazing. Iconic album that could've been recorded today and would still sound fresh. Don't think I'll ever live down the way I treated it in educating, don't know what I was thinking. This is a perfect album.

Always a favorite. His talent was amazing

Música blues-chill.

Hey yo Marvin Gaye, what the fuck is going on? Love your brothers like Marvin does 🫰 P.S. +⭐️ for the Let's Get It On album

Fantastic. A collection of smooth, soulful anthems with excellent singing and percussion in particular. This album contains classics like Mercy Mercy Me and the warm-yet-earth-shattering What's Going On, but also some excellent deeper cuts such as Flyin' High, Right On, and Wholy Holy. There are no duds, and Marvin Gaye is clearly confident in this style of music. It's also such a non-grating, relistenable genre that you can't help but adore it. The transitions between tracks are smooth and unforced. Add to that the groundbreaking impact this album had at the time of release, and the clear-cut, powerful messages passionately laid bare within the music, and you have an all-time classic. Easily 5/5.

Iconic. Pantheon. Epic. Vital.

review notes lost to browser restart :( This is a perennial favorite for many reasons. 5.

This album flows. Without eyeing the track list its tracking is almost imperceptible. Message, influence, motivation and social impact are all there. He’s vocally sublime with layering from voices to street sounds and constant audio barrage. One of the greats when it comes to COMPLETE album production.

Favourite tracks: what's going on; right on; what's happening brother; mercy mercy me; inner city blues

This album is just beautiful. That’s all I have to say.

Fabulous album! True classic R & B.

I've read about this album and was aware the sequencing was gonna be good and is well praised, but the abrupt switches from Save the Children to God is Love to Mercy Mercy Me was really well done. The album kinda sounds like one long performance so far, which is a huge plus, remind me of The Ramones or The Strokes first album in that regard, but a completely different style of music of course. Maybe if RHCP were good? The songs that change pace are right there when you need them, like Right On or the third or so song (?). ESPECIALLY Wholy Holy. The album is on the shorter side which adds to its one-long-single-song thing more by avoiding listener fatigue and increasing replayability. The BASS all over this is such groove. The strings have such a good timbre, especially on Right On breakdown and Wholy Holy. I swear I've heard them sampled by MF Doom/king geedorah. Blueprint string production. How the songs are clumped/pairedtogether is perfect. Wholy Holy really expands the string sounds introduced as a forefront instrument on the earlier song. The last 3 songs (THE STRINGS) were the best on an album that's perfectly consistent, and the first song makes me want to spin the whole album again. The timbre of the strings really elevates this album into something very special, and now I hear them so prominently on relistening. They're a little more prominent on the first side. The instrumentation is so layered and lush I can tell this would be a very rewarding album upon relistens

Had always heard great things about this album. Love that it is only 35 minutes. All killer no filler. Sonically the music is smooth and groovy. This album is a great example of fantastic lyrics and instrumentation coming together to create a great work of art. Absolutely love "Right On", the flutes on this song are amazing and it is easily the standout track on the album for me. Going to have to give it some more relistens to form a better impression but after first listen I am really enjoying it.

Great album that speaks to the times in which it was created. Motown at lots finest.

This album has some great songs on it, but it’s real accomplishment is to knit every song on the record together into a song cycle where the entire album sounds like one song rather than a collection of songs. Then what takes that to an entire other level is that these were incredibly talented musicians and composers at the tops of their games and so the song cycle is both an amazing technical achievement and sounds beautiful at basically every second of its 35 and a half minute length. This album is deservedly frequently ranked as the greatest album of all time. Popular music doesn’t get much better than this.

Masterpiece. Gone too soon.

Chanceux de tomber sur ce chef d’oeuvre comme dernier album 1089/1089. Un classique 5/5*

Great vibe … easy listening

One of the bests ever

One of the best albums ever made in Detroit and definitely just an amazing album. Great production, great vocals and great lyrics. Not many more albums that are as enjoyable to listen to while also having strong messages that are still relevant today. 9.7/10

Gorgeous. Mercy Mercy Me is an all time great song and the rest of the album is smoothy pretty and fun.

Classic

Surely there's nothing left to say about the vocal performance on this one: deeply emotional, sensitive and hyper controlled, fully attuned to the music. The backing band is incredible and the sound is amazing - lush, vibrant, and rich but full of room and atmosphere - some of the best bass playing recorded to go with memorable horns parts (the sax intro to What's Going On has to be the among most recognizable few notes), keys, organ, and the full motown thing. In that vein though, there are couple of schmaltzy string songs where there's an overdose of Maj7 chords and the vocals get a bit too wailing. This always gets a lot of credit as a protest album, but the politics are really pretty anodyne - "won't somebody think of the babies" "why are there so many problems" "who did this?" "save the children" it's all pretty apolitical really especially considering what was happening in Black politics at the time.

THIS FUCKS OMG I love a choir/string background sitting underneath the melody mhm mmm yeah

Sheer Perfection 5.0

This was such a great album to hear on new years day. Sounds as great as it always does.

Rating: 10/10

This album is legendary for all the right reasons. Beautiful soul music with powerful lyrics and groovy instruments that are supported by a great concept to the album that pertained to serious issues at the time I can still be reflected back in our society currently. A must listen to for all humans.

Great album, the whole thing just flows together so well with a few truly standout tracks. Probably gayes best album. Iconic: what's going on Repeats:mercy mercy me, right on, inner city blues Skip: wholy holy

Amazing voice, amazing tunes

An amazing album that’s grew at easy listening on a weekend. The title track and Old City Blues are amazing songs as well as the entire track list, even if it can sound same-y (not really). A classic for the ages!

Top, richtig schönes Album mit immer noch/wieder aktuellen Themen; schön orchestriert

I don't know if I can cede the #1 all time spot to this, but this is a damn perfect album. The way it approaches conflict, the issues it chooses to bring up, and how it centers itself on love and understanding have reverberated through generations of listeners. This is the soul equivalent to Zepp IV

Heyyyyy whats haddenin??

amazing album!, 10/10

I first discovered a love for Marvin Gaye through the early Motown tracks - Grapevine, Can I Get a Witness, Ain't That Peculiar - the songs with that big beat. As I get older, I appreciate sweet, smooth Marvin Gaye 'with a message' more and more. This album is so incredibly powerful, and such an amazing statement if you consider the state of 'socially conscious' music at the time of its release, and the introduction of the orchestra and the use of the jazz elements and improvisation still sounds fresh and new. Absolutely essential.

A true classic, Marvin Gaye's beautiful voice very nearly distracts from his equally important messages - but not quite.

Probably the best album ever made. That simple, that honest.

This may very well be one of the greatest albums ever made. A thoroughly thought out concept album (the tracks seamlessly fit together) of a vet returning home to utter disillusionment, executed perfectly by one of the most brilliant vocalists there's ever been, backed by the legendary Funk Brothers. Nevermind the poignant lyrics that have aged even better than I'd like, to be honest, given the themes. With the death of Andre Braugher fresh in the news, it's a wild coincidence to be served another massive talent gone far too soon. I get goosebumps every time I listen.

Easy 5. Great lyrics, fantastic bass and drum grooves throughout. Important social messages on top of fantastic music. One of the best.

A classic in every sense. Great songs with something important to say.

Rolling Stone said this is the greatest album of all time. I don’t think I agree but it is phenomenal. Marvin Gaye curates an incredible vibe with the songs all flowing into each other. He’s talking about things that matter but in such an accessible way that you almost forget. This is what great art should do. Also the bass parts throughout were excellent.

Gaye's far too early and unnecessary death is a real tragedy. This has that rare quality of being absolutely of its time, yet immediately classic and timeless as well.

Perhaps the greatest album of all time??? Love it

A true classic of an album. Gorgeous and melancholy and so smooth.

Every time you play this you hear something new. Outstanding album. I've bought more versions that I can list. This really should be in everyone's record collection.

Iconic MG album that oozes class.

Absolute masterpiece.

I really enjoyed this album it was very nice and relaxing

perfect album

Has a great sound, very chill. But the message is very deep. Fantastic album. The title track and Mercy Mercy Me are of course classics. This is the first time I’ve heard inner City Blues and it was phenomenal.

Classic Gaye. Amazing stuff right there

rare combination of a message you can move to

How can you not love Marvin Gaye? I didn't know he was killed by his own father! Imagine if he'd lived longer and how much more amazing music we could have had!

Next 5 songs played by my Spotify Algorithm: Etta James - I'd Rather Go Blind Martha Reeves & The Vandellas - (Love is Like A ) Heatwave Sam Cooke - (What a ) Wonderful World Barry White - Mellow Mood Dionne Warwick - Walk on By

An absolute tour de force

There is nothing to say

One of the finest albums ever

Great

Encapsulates a time, a movement. Emanates love and caring for a community of people.

What an incredible album. I’ve always had a special place in my heart for Marvin. I can vividly recall the time when my dad played me the title track of this album. I was 10 or 11 and we were out in the garage during a family party and this song came on and he and my uncle Ron just stopped talking and cranked it up and jammmmed. That speaks to the influence Marvin had on all sorts of people. Just lovers of music listening to a guy pour his soul into his craft. Beautiful. The album itself is incredible. Really groovy, soul Motown. Feel good bass lines and bongo/drum beats. Impeccable transitions between songs. The variety of instruments used throughout the album. Music for people who love to feel.

A classic

Marvin is dope

Amazing!!

O que está acontecendo?

number 1

Good album

This album is a timeless classic. While I don't know if segways between songs was a thing in the 70s before this or not - but this album flows so beautifully.

Timeless.

An utter classic. Beautifully arranged and sung.

Talk about a classic! So sad and tragic that Marvin Gaye was taken from the world so young and under such horrific circumstances. So sad and tragic that this album was released more than 50 years ago, and every single thing he's talking about is relevant still today. "Who really cares? Who's willing to try to save a world that's destined to die? When I look at the world, it fills me with sorrow. Children today really gonna suffer tomorrow. Oh, what a shame. Such a bad way to live. Who is to blame when we can't stop living?" - lyrics from Save the Children

Brill

It's a seminal album from an incredible artist with some of the best bass playing recorded. (Fun fact, legend has it that James Jamerson (the bass player) was out drinking when Gaye had the studio space for the title track. The studio pulled him in from the bar and he was so drunk he recorded and composed the whole line laying on the floor)

What's going on?" There's a masterpiece going on. Of its time, sure, yet also ahead of it on so many counts. When you listen to this record, you can sense strands of future music genres--trip hop, neo soul, and even hip hop, at least through the lyrical "program" displayed in the album. And the ecological message aged particularly well. Unfortunately, I would even add.  The only (small) issue I could have with this album is that it's quite "one-note" (a flaw that many Marvin Gaye releases from the seventies have). But if you take it as a single topical "suite", instead of a batch of songs, it's easy to understand why Marvin was right to never veer off course.4.5/5, rounded up to a perfect 5 grade. Number of albums left to review: less than 400 (I've temporarily lost count here) Number of albums I'll include in my own list: half so far, approximately (including this one) Number of albums I *might*  include: a quarter, approximately. Number of albums I'll never include: another quarter (many others are more important to me)

Really nice album - better on headphones

Amazing music of course. I rarely listen to it straight through like I should. No one sings with such beauty about urban poverty and blackness as Marvin. It was a landmark album then and still hits today. Injustice and tragedy combined with optimism is what I feel from it.

i'm a bit biased, i am a huge motown fan, so yeah, i adore this album. it is really the first truly great motown album, its first and marvin's first politically conscious effort. so much of this album is still relevant today, more than 50 years later. and it has aged beautifully. the production sounds timeless, marvin gaye is, of course, one of the greatest singers AND songwriters of all time. the musicianship is incredible. just a great soul record, very jazzy at times. one of those albums that truly gives me goosebumps when i hear it. this is the stuff!!!

One of the greatest albums of all time still remains timeless.

Marvin Gaye- What’s Going On 1. Sax automatically makes every song better. But lord have mercy, the drums, the keys, the fucking xylophone hitting in the background… and then the swoon of the strings. My god if this isn’t one of the most beautiful songs of all time then I dunno what is. The vocal melodies are nuts. The crescendo on the second verse. 10/10 2. Lord the vibe rolls right into this track. That bass is thumping and the vocals sound like the gates of Heaven are opening. 3. Lord it won’t stop. This album is an entire vibe. And the vibe is let Marvin take you to soul heaven. This is a masterpiece so far. 4. Another W. Simply beautiful 5. Another W. It’s just so pretty. 6. Goated. 7. That flute is HITTIN. Another banger 8. I’m not religious so I don’t care about the message here but the magic is undeniable. Another W. 9. Excellent closer. This album is GOATED Another revelation. This absolutely belongs on this list. Not a miss on here. A simply beautiful musical arrangement from all parties involved. The social commentary is still relevant over 50 years later. This is a 10/10 🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾

One of the best

It's a little bit fucked up how good this is. Such an enthralling, cohesive experience, the way songs flow into each other is incredible. Political yet deeply empathetic. Draws you in with such ease, yet there is a deepness and complexity that warrants multiple listens. Fav Track: What's Happening Brother

Flawless - one of the most powerful and brilliant records ever. Fave track: Inner City Blues

This album has such a great flow fantastic songs calls, back to the familiar hits throughout the other songs, which is cool super listenable genius

Beautiful! And soooo smooth and cool! In fact the only thing cooler is Frank Sinatra stepping out of a helicopter with a glass of whisky in hand. My favourite album so far, although the last two tracks did slightly take the vibe away a bit. I would definitely recommend

A near perfect album that’s both political & charming, which is so up my alley. The only part that doesn’t work for me all the time is the percussion in Right On but still 5 easy

One of my favorites

800 years ago the band I was in did a guitar rock version of "Inner City Blues" which is my favourite Marvin song. I don't know if it was any good or even if it didn't suck but man, if that wasn't the most fun I had playing a cover I don't know what was. Other than the aforementioned best song, some things I love most about this album: - how the songs flow into one another, creating a full album/suite experience. - the not-quite-doubled but rather 2 unique lead tracks Marvin has for most cuts, almost a sort of self-duet Marvin has going on with himself. - it's all about the bass. James Jamerson and Bob Babbitt. Funk Brothers FTW. - "you know that woo? that single woo?" Critique: I'm not always crazy about the strings; I'd have loved to hear a lot of these songs arranged differently (i.e. without so much orchestration or even completely without) but not quite enough to knock it off a 5. The grooves and Marvin's vocals win out. 9/10 5 stars.

Classic

Yes

Increíble disco. Dificilisimo encasillarlo en un género, suena de todo.

Love Marvin Gaye

Timelessly, tragically relevant over 50 years later.

More than 50 years on, nothing is quite able to replicate the spiritual but universal atmosphere, the effortless sequencing, or the sense of prevailing hope to see a better tomorrow. Gaye's vocal performances are exquisite, and the lyrical subject transcends its themes of Christianity and reaches something spiritual anyone can relate to. With all this history, you would expect the album to be heavy and flabby, in fact it still manages to excite and surprise, all these years later.

Dit is misschien wel het allerbeste soul album of all time, gvd wat goed. Dit ligt marvin zo veel beter dan zijn andere korny nummers die iedereen kent zoals LET'S get it on en sexual healing. Zo veel meer passie en emotie inner city blues slaps so fucking much. I hAvE tHiS oN ViNyL

Classic and still relevant. I think Here My Dear is my favorite but this album is a close second

The fact that this album came out in 1971 blows my mind. I can see and feel it's influence as a concept album across the decades. Gaye's seemingly effortless vocals and messaging are just as impressive and important 50+ years later as they ever were. High Point: What's Going On Low Point: n/a Surprise Hit: Save The Children

Straight 5.

Part angel's prayer, part biting social commentary. The vocals contain so much – sincere despair, heartbreaking resignation and tempered hope for better days. The modulation and occasionally wavering in the singing are highly engaging. The delicate mood and achingly lovely tone are sustained across the entire record. The title cut and “Mercy Mercy Me” and “Inner City Blues” are the top cuts, but the quality is of a whole and never much falters. The lush arrangements somehow seem both elegantly understated and overwhelmingly powerful. Not sure how he pulled that off. Damn near perfect -- the beauty and excellence makes one want to holler in praise.

One of these perfect super-classic timeless albums that sound 5* from the first second.

A work of art, best enjoyed on vinyl.

It was just so influential, I enjoyed it quite well, but its the significance that takes it all the way.

Sweet sexy grooves

Not a single bad song on this album. His voice is smooth and relaxing.

The title track is bussin', respectfully

The same old thing keeps happening.

I have both pity and envy to those who haven't yet heard this album. My 100th album on this app!! It's been a great journey of music discovery so far.

No amount of words can give justice to this. Perfect in every way

I'd imagine a five is way too low for this fucking masterpiece! Beautiful album, fantastic concept record done perfectly

I understand why this album has the reputation that it does — every track has an absolutely immaculate groove. Marvin’s voice is delicate, inviting you in to the song only to hit you with a powerful belt at a song’s climax. The players on this are _phenomenal_, including the GOAT James Jamerson, and the engineering is clear and immaculate. I can’t wait to listen to this on headphones

A classic for anyone’s collection who appreciates motown style soul and melody’s whose lyrics are so profound. I remember this album back in the day when growing up and after so many years it was pleasant to listen again. I saw him in concert while working security and he put on a fabulous show. So much talent, it’s a shame he’s been gone almost 40 years!

A fantastic illustration of how good music can make slightly wet politics groovy and sexy. I tend towards a more austere, radicalism rather than this fluffy goop but, do you know what? Who fucking cares? Bop after bop. The album feels like worn leather in an expensive old car, and smells like fresh tobacco, pepper corns and caramel. What's more, Gaye sings about how fish are full of mercury and I simply never considered that before. He's on a long list of people I think the CIA killed with very little evidence and that makes him something of a little martyr for those sweet little fishlings. Rest in strength Mon Frere!

Legend

Introspective sounds of the revolution. A totally different energy from Sly's Stand! album. It's a compact statement with amazing songs, production, and performances.

Brilliant. Love it so much. Still so relevant and powerful

This album is just gorgeous. I’m not an expert on soul by any stretch but this one just makes you feel things. Always into a good concept album as well.

one of the GOATs

Jes! Tää on about täydellinen soul-levy! Nuff' said. 5/5

Tässä on jotenkin ihan maaginen tunnelma, kuin oma maailmansa. Nimikko, Mercy ja ICB ovat aina olleet isoja lemppareita, mutta pikkuhiljaa muillekin biiseille on syttynyt. Vitoseen taipuu. Saisi olla vähän pidempikin!

Täydellistä, kun Marvin saa kans erinomaisen musiikin lisäksi sanoa jotain maailmasta. 5/5

Amazing: This was just a perfect soul album and put you in the perfect mood for just life in general. From first song to last I felt that it was fresh and creative even though it's over 50 years old. Marvin Gaye you are a perfect musician and I would 1000% listen to this album again without a complaint.

This is really one of the Greatest Albums here.

Such a beautiful record, and Marvin is singing about issues that are just as relevant today.

This album is amazing. Yeah, hot take, I know. This album is also horribly sad, partly because the issues that Marvin Gaye addresses on this album are the same now as they were then. This album is beautiful and it’s both a miracle and a tragedy that it was then and will always be the definitive statement on race and the environment in America. Such a bummer, such a great album.

Classic soul, R&B album by the late, great Marvin Gaye. Without a shadow of doubt his best album. Nothing but knockouts, and what a voice the man has. Backed by a great band. it stands out to me how each song flows into the next one. The album touches upon some dark topics, but the songs seem lighthearted, but if you look up the lyrics. All in all, excellent album that I love to listen to! 9 out of 10

didn't fully get the hype when I listened to it first years ago but then I got good headphones and could hear Jamerson's basslines, then learned more context, now it's one of my favourites lol

Já, ég hef annað álit á Marvin Gaye núna en fyrir 25 árum, en sorrý. Þessi plata er samt stórkostleg á allan hátt.

Iconic cover and from the first note of the album you're transported to another world. It's a troubled world and not unlike the one we're in now so not much has changed in 52 years. It's Monday morning and i'm getting ready to go to work for another week. This is what music is supposed to do - affect you. The notes and singing are smooth and groovy but the subject matter is one of strife. This gets a big fat 5 'cos it's simply one of the greats and what this chart was set up for.

This is a great album. I heard talk about Flint's water in the opening...man, nothing changes. 5/5

I don’t think I’ve ever heard the album mix of the title track. I found it a bit distracting. Awesome album overall.

Powerful classic

Truly no words to describe this experience Let the music speak for itself

Top album

chill and introspective and kinda sexy even?? so good

A classic for a reason. Listen to find out What's Going On.

Surely everyone knows and loves this album. One of the most important albums of its genre (or any other); THE highlight of Marvin Gaye's career: it was all downhill from this point onwards, but what a highpoint!

Excellent 4.75/5

Groovy and lots of his beautiful voice!

I am a very big fan of this album. I have previously listened to this album, but I re-listened and it is still great. The vocals are nearly unmatched, and the composition as well as the message are flawless.

Awesome album. Classic with a smooth vibe. Feel good tone throughout. Highly enjoyed this album.

5 init

Makes me wanna holler with joy

What else did you expect

Perfecto de inicio a fin.

Sould music at its finest believe he recorded it in europe somewhere to get away from demons, maybe fighting demons is ehat they should call it. Still solid

Great album, high production, everything just flows. Mercy Mercy Me is a particular favourite.

Masterpiece of an album with what is, in my opinion, the greatest singing voice ever. "What's Going On", "Mercy, Mercy, Me" and one of my favorite songs ever, "Inner City Blues" (which is also the theme for what I think is the greatest TV show ever, The Wire). 10/10

Think of one aspect of this album and tell me it’s not perfect. Lyrics, production, instrumentation, chords, structure, etc. Pure vibes coming off this thing. 5/5

One of my top five albums of all time by one of my top 5 favorite artists of all time

You know that longing, earnest saxophone that opens behind the chatty greetings of “What’s Going On?” You're hearing it in your mind now and your head is starting to nod like you’re saying “No!” to everything other than the riff, the song, and its ideas. Right? Eli Fontaine, a session sax player, was just warming his chops in the studio over the track when Gaye told him to go home. Gaye said, “We’ve already got what we need.” Somewhat incredulous and probably taking it as a dismissal, Fontaine insisted that he was only “goofing around.” Gaye responded with, “Well, you goof exquisitely.” Simply put, one of the greatest albums ever, ever made. 'Nuff said.

Smoooooth!

A true classic. Not easy listening, as it is soul in its purest form, but if you dig deep you will find everything: smooth arrangements, meaningful lyrics, one of the best singing voices ever. And timeless songs like 'What's Going On' or 'What's Happening Brother'.

big grooves

Feel good music, cool vibes. Fantastic start to the album, with the party acoustics. Love it.

Blir soul bedre?

I'm not crying. YOU'RE crying!

Masterpiece

Turns out What's Going On and Let's Get It On are very different albums. This feels like the platonic ideal of R&B. Seriously still holds up. BT - What's Goin On - What's Happening Brother - Mercy Mercy Me - Right On - Inner City Blues

One of those perfect albums

Inspiring, hopeful, reflexive. One in a million.

Everything is good about this album.

Ett av de allra bästa soulalbumen, ibland det bästa.

Transcendent and resplendent. This... might be a legitimately perfect album.

Surprisingly tight, and the concept was very strong. A low 5, but a 5 nonetheless.

a masterpiece with his Let's get it on.

What a great album. Wish it was longer. Great flow. A classic and still very relevant to today.

Some to most albums are just collections of songs, this is actually an album album. Phenomenal and peak soul.

listened to this one multiple times this weekend, such an incredible album. amazingly (and depressingly) this album released in 1971, but all of the critiques it had about society still completely apply today. marvin gaye also has one of the best voices ever in music, further carrying this album.

Ja gewoon goed, heerlijke classic

Hoewel r&b en soul mij niet per se liggen, springt dit album er voor mij direct uit. Toevallig onlangs nog een artikel gelezen over dit album, hoe What’s Going On over ongelijkheid gaat, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) over het klimaat, waar Marvin relatief vroeg mee was. Hoe het hem lukte een politiek album op Motown te uit te brengen. Dit album is niet je standaard r&b/soul album en dat hoor je direct. Hoe naadloos de nummer overvloeien, Save The Children > God Is Love > Mercy Mercy Me voelt als 1 lang nummer. Prachtige teksten zonder pretentie, wat soms lastig is als je een politieke boodschap over wilt brengen. What’s Going On is natuurlijk vandaag de dag een nog megahit, waar velen denk ik toch de boodschap erin missen. Zijn stem is zo zacht als boter en dat helpt ook. Hier en daar een hint van jazz (percussie op Save The Children, de blazers op Mercy Mercy Me) wat het album meer diepte geeft. Na het luisteren en deze review schrijven zie ik op rateyourmusic.org dat dit het nummer 1 album van 1971. In een jaar waar gigantisch veel goede muziek uit kwam, muzikaal innovatief en vooruitstrevend (Masters of Reality, Tago Mago, Maggot Brain), spant dit album volgens die snobistische gebruikers blijkbaar de kroon, en dat zegt voor mij al genoeg. Alom geprezen en gewaardeerd, het is onmogelijk dit album niet leuk te vinden.

Mega beautiful : )

Long time listener, yet it still gives me chills

One of the shining gems of soul, perfectly capturing the restless times in which it was made. Marvin Gaye’s finest hour on record.

What a phenomenal piece of 1970s r&b. Marvin Gaye’s voice is equal parts unreal and perfectly mixed. Each snare hit and slide whistle mixing wonderfully and the sonically perfect piece.

One of my favorite albums of all time, absolute groundbreaking masterpiece.

My second soul album that I listened through, and this one blew away the competition. Really nice and smooth

Half way through track one, that's a big yes. I really love the vibe, and his voice, the listening was extremely smooth. Well played Mister Gaye. Tbh there were not songs particularly shinning bright but just a really good overall experience. Favorite Songs : What's going on, Mercy Mercy me, Right on Rating : 4.5 / 5

What can I say about this album that isn't already said, its a damn classic. One of the first soul albums I brought on record. Holds a special place in my heart.

I think it would absolutely break Marvin Gaye's heart that over 50 years after the release of this album, and nearly 40 years after his death, nothing has changed. This album is still as lyrically relevant as ever. Musically, it's gorgeous, with lush strings and deep, resonant bongos creating such a warm atmosphere. It's a masterpiece. Nothing more need be said.

Well I think this has to be full marks as a cultural touchstone alone. The songs do have a similar kind of sound but the lyrics and vocals and sentiment are spot on.

Cooler than a poor bear in sunglasses. Great from start to finish. Inner City Blues, Right On, and Mercy Mercy Me are the highlights.

He's done it again. Favorite track: Inner City Blues

Obra maestra

A classic

Inner city blues

Beautiful music and vocals accompanied with such a poignant and deep message. Every song connects to the next and leads you on a groovin', socially conscious ride. What's Going On and Mercy Mercy Me are all timers.

- Heard this before - One of the most important albums of all time - Not something I listen to very often, but when I do I can easily see why it's considered one of the best of all time - Fav songs: What's Going On, Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler), Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)

I don’t think there’s a top 10 list out there where this album isn’t present. It’s simply the best at everything it’s doing; best Motown record, best protest record, best vocal performance, etc. Of course you have to mention the lyrics, which are unfortunately, timeless. But what this manages to capture most is the world Gaye saw that was worth fighting for in the midst of all the chaos.

Maybe we’ll never find the answers to Marvin’s musings, as the injustices of the past bleed into modern day, but as much as our revolving reality makes us want to cry, you just have to remember, always, to try.

Classic album, all of the songs are what’s goin on

The pinnacle of 70s soul? If not, then at least one of the peaks. Despite the meandering religiosity of the middle of the album, this thing sings true.

Marvin Gaye's ”What's Going On” is a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of time and genre. Released in 1971, the album tackles issues of social justice, war, poverty, and police brutality, making it an album that resonates with people even today. Gaye's smooth, soulful vocals and jazzy instrumentation make the album a joy to listen to from start to finish. Songs like ”What’s Going On”, ”Mercy Mercy Me” and ”Inner City Blues” are truly powerful and showcase Gaye’s brilliant artistry. Whilst it’s not the greatest album of all time like Rolling Stone claims, it’s certainly one of those albums that feel really special and easily fits into the debate for top 30.

Clear contender in my opinion of the best album about social justice ever produced. Gaye, a beloved son of Washington DC, was taken away far too young in the tragic shooting by his father. Who knows what he may have achieved and it is a poignant reminder that sometimes those who burn the brightest also burn the shortest. There's nothing I can say about this album that won't have been better said elsewhere. One thing I will mention is that Gaye's family released a new album posthumously called "Your the Man". It truly is worth your time to go and give *that* album a listen if you haven't heard it. Really beautiful and there are some showstoppers on it, especially 'Piece of Clay' if you have time for only one song with its piercing guitar and glorious organ. In that song, he speaks of the relationship between a father and son with respect to the false expectations of a father. Heartbreaking.

This is a great album, but I’ve always felt that it’s missing something to put it over the top. 9/10

GOATED

incredibly soulful and catchy music with protest lyrics that feel incredibly heartfelt and real. the combo of funky easy listening with hard-hitting lyrics of love and war is an excellent vibe. 4.5/5 4.5/5

Lyrical and musical masterpiece

Marvin Gayes masterpiece. Just an absolute beautiful album, which sadly a lot of the themes are still true today, over 50 years later.

Ok, I've never actually listened to this before. It's a concept album, each track into the next. I knew the themes it was going to deal with, but I had no idea this was the way it was going to be told. So good in its story, it's writing, and just overall vibe. I completely understand why this hits best ever lists. I'll be giving this one another spin

Makes me wanna give 5 stars, throw up my hands.

Naturally this is going to be five stars - it's Marvin Gaye for crying out loud.

Great bitta bass playing

One of the best !

REally blown away by this one. Easily my favorite so far. FLows so well all the way through

Good album to chill too but also has some the greatest vocals, lyrics, and bass lines of all time. Whole album flows well and doesn’t really have any misses.

Amazing album, feels spiritual, like I’m floating on a cloud, but at the same time there’s a pain in it too. Lyrics make it a masterpiece. 3/1001 best album yet

One of the best albums ever made. Marvtastic

This album is simply one of the greatest albums of all time. Marvin Gaye explores themes of racism, war, poverty etc. and does it all with a striking sense of empathy. The vocals are melodies are top notch and the music is soothing yet has an air of movement and restlessness that underscores the severity of the social issues. This album is always in heavy rotation for me.

LP

Classic, enduring album - a true great.

The song; What's Going On is a stone cold classic. The album deserves four stars for that track alone. The question is does the rest of the album push it to a 5? The answer for me is Yes! THe overriding themes of war and inner-city strife, the environment and a loving and benevolent God are delivered with heartfelt soul and honesty as to be dissarming. Gaye's singing is incredible. I am not a fan of strings / orchestration in pop music, I feel like it clouds the musical threads in general and I feel that that part is the weak element of this album but I can live with it when the performance is this honest and true. The songs are able to cut through that fog and deliver thier messge with still great imact. 5 stars

Beautiful weaving of some meaningful songs by the man himself

Best ever!

4.5 Really really good

I'll tell you what's going on! This is a fantastic album

Love that some of the songs are connected so it feels like a big song tgt and the 7min sounds like a 3 min and this album is really fast paced

Este álbum representa la tranquilidad que nos brinda rendirnos ante la idea de que hay algo más grande que nosotros. Tema Favorito: Mercy Mercy Me (The ecology).

peak!! alegre, bailable y buenas vibes. las canciones son todas similares pero ninguna falla

Super cool but transitions wasn’t smooth between songs

4★/5 07.02.2026

I do still think the subject matter does not cohere with the stylistic choices but Gahdamn does bro have a soothing voice

He’s got a good voice, and the first song is a classic.

This album wasn't what I expected. The songs glide into each other, so it's hard to separate them. Which is very cool artistically! But because the title track is so popular on its own, listening to the full album for the first time is almost jarring. It's like there's an extended cut of What's Going On (the song) and it's not the version you're used to. Does that make sense? Nevertheless! Once I get past that, I know that I just love Marvin Gaye's voice, passion, musicality. This dude was the real deal.

While I personally enjoy Marvin more in his self produced era this album is a beautiful representation of his ability to ask hard questions and lead with love. He always cuts straight into social topics and does so with beautiful vocals and incredibly strong instrumentation.

V. Good

Iconic record. Applaud the sentiments and 'feel' and Social Commentary more than anything. Not every song is fantastic. But theres a few absolute classics Whats Going On, Mercy Mercy Me and Inner City Blues are great. Was a talented fella 35 mins long wow

Music for people to make love to

This is a good soundtrack to play on Election Day this year. Better yet, a soundtrack to examine one’s actions in an age where we are too easily satisfied to just be outraged at “those people.” But, “Who really cares? Who's willing to try? To save the world That’s destined to die?” Good questions. I wish Marvin Gaye’s questions, offered when I was an infant, brought me back to a different time. Instead, they speak to today. What’s going on?

Have I listened to this album before No How familiar am I with this album I know it’s very highly rated, and I know the title track How do I feel about this artist? I do enjoy Marvin Gaye Pre-Listen Thoughts: This will be a good Monday Favorite track(s): Mercy Mercy Me Post-Listen Thoughts: I honestly kind of feel like it went by too fast, like he had more to say. I can see why this is a classic even though it’s not really my usual genre, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Amazing production. I feel like this is the definition of a timeless album. That being said, I don't think this album is for me. Something about the soul arrangements and singing doesn't really stick for me. But as a meditation, this is a beautiful work of art.

Thoughts before listening: Consistently at the top of the best albums of all time lists. The title track is an all time great song, and this is certainly one of the better r&b/soul records. Thats not necessarily always my favorite genre, but I am excited to listen to this today. Review: The opening title track really is the definition of a classic. Smooth, slow burn r&b with Marvin's soulful vocals over music accented with snaps, strings, and a constant murmur of people in the background making it seem as if Marvin is speaking to his community about the troubles they are facing were facing in the late 60s/early 70s: Vietnam, civil rights, drugs, etc show up throughout this lyrically important album. In general, the vibe on this album remains consistent, with each jazzy, cool track flowing into the next making it difficult to distinguish when one ended and the next began. Certainly a pleasant listen, especially Marvin's iconic vocals, even with some unpleasant subject matter, additional standout tracks include "Mercy Mercy Me" and "Right On". 4-stars

Good album. Liked how it flowed from one song to the next. Maybe a bit slow for me, definitely a mood setter. Good for a slow romantic night.

Great album

Je n’ai pas eu d’orgasme auditif depuis très longtemps Marvin Gaye je t’aime

Not exactly my genre, but i Think it’s a very good piece of R&B history. My favourite song was „Mercy Mercy me” with it’s timeless message.

I'm not a big Marvin Gaye fan, but this was pretty easy listening. Sadly, most of his social commentary still applies 50 years later, especially when you listen closely to the heavy themes of war, systemic poverty, and environmental destruction driving the title track and "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)". The way he blends these deep, urgent political statements with incredibly smooth, lush orchestration is definitely impressive and ahead of its time. The entire album functions like one continuous, flowing piece of music rather than a collection of separate singles, seamlessly bleeding from one track into the next, which makes for a really cohesive and immersive listening experience. Even though his signature style isn't totally my thing, you can't deny the incredible musicianship and the massive cultural impact of this record. It creates a beautiful, jazzy atmosphere with those layered percussions, subtle saxophone lines, and backing vocals that perfectly mimic the feel of a community gathering. It acts as a fascinating time capsule that captures the pain and anxiety of the early 1970s while managing to sound completely timeless. After all these years, it remains a powerful artistic statement that commands respect.

Classic. Stonewall classic

I’m gay for Gaye

Great, one of the best voices ever. Probs would be a 5 if I gave it some more listens

Good and groovy. Classic.

Another great album! Not quite 5 stars though since I find it a bit less interesting than some of his other albums

Ourraid makeet saundit ja kiva meisinki. Ihan ei saanut täyttä otetta hommasta äkkiseltään hittien ulkopuolelta, mut sen verran potentiaaleja, että voi kiittäen arvioida.

No onhan tää nyt ihan saatanan kova! En tunne genreä niin hyvin että osaisin sanoa että onko tää tyylipuhdasta soulia vai jotain soul-motown-r'n'b -mikstuuraa, mutta joka tapauksessa kolisee. On kolissut siitä asti kun näin ekan kerran Jackie Brownin joskus vuosituhannen taitteessa. En välttämättä jatkuvalla syötöllä tätä jaksaisi kuunnella, mutta pieninä annoksina ihan helvetin hyvää kamaa! Oikeastaan silti parasta on melkein se, mitä Spotifyn alkometri on tämän levyn jälkeen ajanut. Tekis mieli antaa vitska näin juhannuksen kunniaksi, mutta ehkä mennään kuitenkin vahvalla nelkulla.

Some great tunes, some that feel more meh, a real product of its times, a snapshot of 1971. I enjoyed listening even though it's not "my kind of music."

Nice soul album, I like it.

This was a childhood album for me. Mans got an incredible voice and just such smooth and tasteful instrumentals. A little too religious for me but overall great.

Makes me wanna hollaaaaaaaaaa

while im not super into the albums politics (I PROMISE IM NOT RIGHT WING I JUST THINK ITS A LITTLE TOO LIBERAL SOMETIMES PLEASE DONT STOP READING) theres no doubt about the damn sound of it all. smooth as hell and revolutionized soul music. marvin gaye you clueless motherfucker

More religious than I thought!

Classic Motown

It's a vibe

Smooth, soulful, confident, a great listen.

have listened before. just a rock solid soul performance. i love a really short, tight album, doesn't feel like it gets carried by its hits. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) is very pretty, the title track is obv dope, but Right On i really dug on this listen through. strong 4

Hell yeah, man

Everything is great about it, the lyrics, the themes, the production and the flow. The kind of album I like to own on CD and forget about until i stumble upon it on a random day when skiming through the shelves

I like how these songs are calming and great to listen to, but they also spread a powerful and lasting message. 4.5/5 stars, a great listen. I'd really recommend it.

This had some very good musical instruments, and good sounding music. But the lyrics don't match up with the music. I would highly recommend this to musicians listening for some good tone, because it is incredible. But lyricists, it won't be so good if you are more interested with the flow of the music.

The album is pretty good, while it doesn't really fit my tastes exactly, it's still a fantastic album with excellent songs and I highly recommend giving it a listen.

I think this album is good so I'd give it 4 stars because I like the beat and the sound. I also like how it has songs about problems in the world.

I liked this a ton. It had great instrumentation and the backing vocals were stellar. The song lyrics had a great message that still rings true today. I would highly recommend this album.

Cok guzel akti album harika otesiydi hepsini dinlemisim farkinda olmadan hic sikilmadim

Amazing, very harmonious, very instrumental and beautiful vocals

Great music again

Wonderful album! Even though I was unborn when it was released, it is undoubtedly one of my favorite vinyls in my collection! It takes you back to the 70s, the years of questioning , of searching and of redefinition.. PS Back in 1991 first listened to Robert Palmers remake of mercy and through the years that followed it brought me here

8/10 - Purposeful, meaningful, passionate. Fav Tracks: What's Going On, Mercy Mercy me, Inner City Blues Heard before? ---–- ✅ Saved a Song? ----- ✅ Saved Album? --–-- ✅ Will Listen Again? -- ✅ Album Cover -------Classic. The rain as part of the background, on his coat, his hair. The popped collar. Honestly, you could Halloween costume this it's that iconic

A great album except for the song about the children. It can get corny but gotta love the smooth soul love butter.

impossible to dislike this