What's Going On

I liked it. The hits were the highlight

me encanta la musica de negros!! super chill este disco no lo conocia y al artista tampoco. un gran descubrimiento. me gusta como junta canciones entre si. definitivamente volvere a recurrir a el en algun momento . 8,5/10

Man, that A-side is utterly fantastic, showing exactly why albums are so important, and can often triumph over a song-by-song listening experience. So much to say in one medley, and it all is not only peaceful and catchy, but thought-provoking and even devastating in modern contexts. However, the B-side is extremely ho-hum to me, to a pretty bad extent. You have two tracks too long and aimless for their own good, and a bible thumping cheese-fest sandwiched between to only lead to a lacking finale. I can see why one would like the final track, but after that glorious string of songs on the A-side, and even other Marvin Gaye tracks off other albums, I know better exists, and it deters me from it a little bit. A good album, certainly, but the best of all time just feels like a stretch.

A classic.

Look I like ‘What’s Going On’, but I don’t think I love it. The singles from it are excellent and incredible, but the rest of it is a bit repetitive. However, it’s hard to ignore that it’s a landmark record and all the context around it. Its universally acclaimed, praised and loved, it’s just that I probably like some of Gaye’s other stuff more. Sorry…not sorry. 3/5, but adding another 1 for impact and legacy so 4/5.

great album. All kinda flows together though. Not a lot of changes. Like Neil said, “it’s all one song.” Still an incredible album.

It seems like so often when "What's Going On" is used in movies it's some light-hearted, loving sort of scene. I've been lied to this whole time. This is a Vietnam war protest album. Oh damn this album got very religious

The production value is pretty incredible. Delicate but wonderfully layered. Love the strings and the background vocals. An easy 35 minute listen. Not my music, but I can appreciate it for what it is.

I quite liked this - it might be something I come back to and get obsessed with. Listening 50 odd years on, I feel that the music holds up, and some songs had a lot to say. :)

Absolute Classic album. “What’s Going On” is a soulful masterpiece that’s both a snapshot of early 1970s America and a timeless cry for compassion and justice. It’s emotional, beautiful, and deeply human, with just a touch too much God

quiero escucharlo más veces, porque no estoy habituado a este tipo de música. El último tema es un pepino

A classic for good reason. Big fan of the multi-layered jazz arrangements.

Great voice, fun to listen to

A true classic

A really thoughtful album that has some much going on. Fun and uplifting songs that are easy to relax to. A little too religious for me personally. I also really enjoyed how the album does end on a more serious note, that despite all the positivity there are still bad things happening; helps keep its message grounded. Top tracks: What's Going On, What' Happening Brother, Inner City Blues

Não é um álbum ruim, achei bem feito e produzido. Entretanto, não acho que ouviria novamente. Nada dele realmente me pegou.

What’s Going On is a phenomenal album—one I’ve returned to time and again. It’s more than just music; it’s an emotional and social statement that still resonates today. The title track What’s Going On and Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) are absolutely stunning—both musically and lyrically. They’re timeless pieces that blend soul, jazz, and heartfelt commentary on the state of the world. There are moments of profound pain throughout the album, powerfully conveyed through the lyrics of songs like Save the Children and God Is Love. Gaye’s voice is filled with both sorrow and hope, giving these tracks a deeply human quality. Favourite tracks: What’s Going On, Mercy Mercy Me Least favourite: — (Honestly, it’s hard to pick one) Album artwork: Iconic. When you think of Marvin Gaye, this cover—his solemn, thoughtful gaze in the rain—instantly comes to mind. It’s as legendary as the music itself.

Sunday morning

• great depth - a couple standout singles and quality songs throughout • love the lyrical content and song-cycle quality; if I were a bigger fan of the orchestration and genre it would be a 5

A must.

Fun album. Standouts for me were "What's Going On" and "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)"

Exceptional album

It's funny, because just recently I saw a Spotify playlist called "Marvin Gaye's clueless ass" with song titles asking questions including the first two here. ("What's Going On" and "What's Happening Brother") Old Soul, R&B, is not something that normally appeals to me, but this is good stuff. Very evocative of the times and yet timeless. It's easygoing but in a pleasant way.

It was okay I’d relisten but not that much

Undeniable, but the only MG album I revisit is "I Want You"

I've finally given this a listen after years of seeing it on "Best albums of all time" lists. I don't think I would go that far but it certainly is sonically dense. I listened to it 3 times and still don't feel like I scratched the surface of this project. Def will be coming back to it.

Blended right into a long Sunday drive

Chill album.

Opens like the gates of heaven with “What’s Going On” and proceeds to lay down a yellow brick road of smooth social consciousness. By the end, I was wishing cultural appropriation was culturally appropriate.

First listen to a Marvin Gaye album.

Iconic and powerful, too much of a focus on Christianity in my personal opinion though. Overall, 8/10.

A classic - What's going on, mercy mercy me, and inner city blues are the best. I really like it, would listen again, but it's not a true five for me. Just a little too...something.

vier minus

Wow! Vibrant, fun, and full. I wasn't alive when this word was used but I can only imagine it was labeled as "Groovy." Its so interesting how this sound feels so nostalgic to me, without any previous connection to it. The lyrics lose me a little bit, but that's okay because overall love the messaging. Great album and very deserving of its spot on the list.

Who wouldn't love the voice of Marvin.

Repetitive but nice

Very smooth and tender. Catchy without hooks. The rhythm is its main ingredient

In a nutshell: "when will people start getting together again?" Bam. Right in the feels. "What's Going On" could be an incidental concept album (as inspired by Marvin's brother): troop returns from Vietnam. We walk a few miles in his shoes as he tries to process how dramatically the world has changed. Over fifty years on, we are in an eerily similar state of events. What is going on indeed. There are some similar sounds and melodies reused throughout the album but I think there are some variety within them to not sound boring. Also, I wonder if we can draw a line from Marvin Gaye to Kendrick Lamar... Overall: 8/10

I don't normally like soul music but I like how smooth and jazzy the songs are. He's a fantastic singer and the instrumentation is lush and groovy.

The title track of this album is my favorite Marvin Gaye song, but the album overall is still smooth and gentle enough that I can't stay focused on it. I assume it's fantastic if you don't have ADHD getting in between the rest of your own brain and the music?

Banger after banger, suspected this would be high scoring before even listening

Great album. Some classic songs. Great music for snuggling.

A very smooth, pleasant album What I didn't like was some songs just ended abruptly? Almost as if songs were jumping tracks Overall enjoyable, I really like his voice 4 ⭐️

I expected to like this more than I did, that being said it’s still good. I liked and was somewhat surprised and impressed with the socially conscious lyrical content, “trigger happy police” is far too relevant today. Overall after the first few songs it all sounds too similar for me. I’m going to say 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars, but that’s probably a bit of a stretch.

I really enjoy this one. I don't listen to it often, but I really should. It sounds great, love the vocals and the lush orchestration. A triumph in all senses. I like the way it flows together from one song to the next and that elevated Motown sound is really great.

1 1 .75 .75 1

Less a collection of songs, more a continual meandering groove. Quietly powerful.

Some great stuff, some a bit more forgettable. That said, some really timeless and compelling social statements that feel all too relevant today. I'm probably at a 3.5 on it, but the social commentary bumps to 4.

I like this album because I like his vpice

I like this album because I like the singers voice. I like the soft instruments behind him and how they sound. They sound soft and go with his voice well. I would reccomnend this album.

Do you want to listen to some music that has some nice guitar? Well in What's Going On you can! I rate this song a ⭐⭐⭐⭐. I recommend this song. Do you want to listen to some music that has some drums? Well in Mercy Mercy Me you can! I rate this song a ⭐⭐⭐. I kind of recommend this song. Do you want to listen to some music that has some nice guitar? Well in Inner City Blues you can! I rate this song a ⭐⭐⭐⭐. I recommend this song.

Yeah. So very of its period. The smoothest of the smooth yet with a hard-edged message. 4/5. The 192kHz/24 bit remaster I am listening to (2011?) is technically superb.

Great start to the album. Soulful and powerful lyrics. Less memorable near the end but great listen

I knew there were going to be some great songs, but Inner City Blues really ended this album perfectly.

Good, but not something I would choose to listen to

Peak easy listening

Good vibes to listen to around the house

5 for importance 3 for enjoyability

Sounds much the same throughout, even if it is beautifully done. Final track is fantastic.

7/10… 70er Soul / Motown

Great album. Smooth and easy to listen to.

"What's Going on" [+++] "What's Happening Brother" [++] "God Is Love" [+]

An all-time classic for a reason.

Beautiful, if steeped a little too long in the gospel tradition of soul.

Poetic jazz. The revolution will not be televised.

Timelessly poignant, especially in the first half of 2025

Marvin never misses

Lovely

8,27

This is very, very good. Like, very silky smooth. Very rainy day music. However, not catchy at all, which is understandable. But it doesn't particularly appeal to me specifically. Like, these songs will definitely go on some playlists but I doubt they'll be a part of my daily rotation even though they are very, very, very good. I think I just tend to like faster paced stuff, which is why Stevie Wonder's Innervisions edges this out for me -- it's more exciting, I guess. Inner City Blues is very good. Mercy Mercy Me has been in my ocassional rotation for quite some time. This is the kind of music that makes you breathe a little deeper and look a little longer at the sky and snap your fingers a little bit. Pretty peak. A strong, strong 4/5?

(4/5)

Lyrically very strong. Musically stays in a narrow space.

SMOOTH AS SILK AND BOLD AS BRASS

i didnt listened to all of the album, but it was cool, kind of. give me the next gonna give it another try for sure

It's Marvin Gaye. It's good.

…and on and on. I like this album but no doubt it’s samey. But it’s Marvin

It's Marvin 'one song split into many' Gaye...but it's still Marvin

I don’t think it’s possible to rate this album any lower than 4 stars with the absolute classic tracks included. However, the rest of the record is very much just filler for those classics. I know it’s kind of a concept album deal, but it seems like even at this runtime it’s more of a padded EP.

88% Best: What's Going On; Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology); Right On; Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Must-Hear? Yes

Timeless

Bardzo ciekawy album. Rodzaj społecznego manifestu, bardzo spójnego i konsekwentnego. Połączenie pokojowego przesłania pokolenia dzieci kwiatów z czarnym chrześcijaństwem w stylu gospel. "What's going on" to fantastyczny utwór, jako jedyny mający strukturę singla (może jeszcze "Inner City Blues", ale brakuje mu chwytliwości). Reszta to bardziej album koncepcyjny, utwory przechodzą jeden w drugi z pełną płynnością. W zasadzie jest to jedno długie jam session. Ciężko wczuć mi się w chrześcijański aspekt albumu, ale jednocześnie widzę w tym najczystszą wersję przesłania Jezusa, nie sposób tego nie docenić. Plus niezależnie od punktu początkowego, dochodzimy z Gayem do tych samych wniosków. Muzycznie jest to mega dobra i rozbudowana produkcja od Motownu, Gaye miał świetny zespół za sobą. Brzmienie jest bardzo czyste, czuć klasę muzyków, mimo często dosyć oszczędnych aranżacji, które dają w pełni wybrzmieć tekstom i głosowi Gaye'a. Solidne 4/5

This is such beautiful music and messaging. I have been emotionally overcome multiple times while listening to this. And GODFUCKINGDAMNIT we're almost 55 years after this album's release and we STILL can't be nice to each other and respect our planet. 4.5

8.5/10

Over 50 years later it still resonates, enjoyed it

More timely tunes.

always wanted to listen to this record in full in once. did it while to cleaning up my apartment and it made me really efficient 😅 such a delicious album to listen too. and when you look at the lyrics, it's surprisingly really political. this album is like one long cuddle of pure music. probably more enjoyable by just chilling but still ... wow fav song : Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) and Inner City Blues

A bit too much "holy god" for my taste, but a good album.

Mellow, smooth, hypnotic groove. His voice is genuine and comforting. The lyrics are still relevant in 2025. My only complaint is the 70's string sounds that accompanied every 70's TV show montage of a gas guzzler cruising down 14 lanes of California highway, which is now probably a series of strip malls or blackened hills. "Hey, mercy, mercy me, oh Hey, things ain't what they used to be What about this overcrowded land? How much more abuse from man can she stand?"

Pretty great. I think there are better soul albums out there but it's still great.

Se nota que es bueno pero a mí no me gusta

Soulful Marvins voice is great here and I like the accompanyment with the talking bits. tight band some stand out tracks. A pleasent listen.

Great album. Didn't love every song but solid all the way through.

I'd imagine Marvin would quite a lot to say about stuff that's going on nowadays. What's going on indeed.

Very much of it's time but also still relevant.

Huge fan of Marvin Gaye

The complex play of street voices on the title track reveal how his amazing voice is rooted in the day's realities. How relevant today, sheeit 1971 literally yesterday. Advertising cliches mocked by reality. There is some obvious working things out in places but when he is sure what he's doing, damn, he knows what he's doing.

Love this album. Not all out if the park, but still an important recording.

B+ What's Going On 5 What's Happening Brother 4 Flyin' High (In The Friendly Sky) 3 Save The Children 4 God Is Love 3 Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) 5 Right On 3 Wholy Holy 4 Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) 3 An absolute classic. Mercy Mercy Me was one of my favorite songs for a while there. Part of the vinyl collection as well.

I love this album. such a good message in this album.

Classic greatness with the first song. I live the flow of this album. It all goes really well together. Very smooth. The hits are great, but my favorite was the last track, Inner City Blues. It made me wanna holler. I'll give this a 4.

This album could be played at a party but it could also be fodder for quiet contemplation. A lot of the messages are still relevant today. comes off as smooth and effortless, but compelling.

Fantastic singing, important themes and smooth production. A beautiful album.

inner city blues is great

Overall a great album for commuting between tasks today. I will say that the songs that dive a bit deeper into the religious aspect were not as impactful for me.

What's Going on and Mercy Mercy Me are two of my all time favorites. The middle of this album (friendly skies, children, god is love) drags a bit though. Still overall a great one.

Short and very sweet.

34/1001 Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On might be one of soul’s most seminal albums, and it’s importance for later developments can’t be understated. Sometimes influential doesn’t mean great, however, this isn’t one of those times. What’s going on is an incredibly interesting concept album, with each and every song seamlessly flowing into one another, creating a rather cohesive piece of music rather than individual songs. The album opens with arguably Gaye’s best and most iconic song, What’s Going On. The album flows and ebbs with a chill mood throughout. Other highlights include Mercy Mercy Me, the ambitious Right On and Inner City Blues, which smartly concludes the album with a sample of the opening track. 4/5

Wow!

8/10

Good, can see how it informed a whole wave of music but unlikely to listen again

Solid R&B. Sounds slightly corny and a little same-y, even in the back half without the medley, but not in a bad way.

smooth and luxurious, i enjoyed this with headphones and without, good background music. this is how i would have wanted that creepy stevie wonder to sound.

Music was fine, but was a bit boring at times. Good messages in the lyrics.

Fav: Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) Least Fav: Right On Got me out of a bad mood, so I’m very appreciative of this album

I really liked it. I thought some of the chorus were either religious, or at least sounded like so, or too simple. However the general vibe was something that I´d love to have sampled on a terrace in a sunny day while I enjoy a drink with friends

This album made me want to grab strangers’ hands in the street, and reassure them that God will show us the way. Beautiful, soulful, groovy. The only note I have is that songs (around) 2-4 feel repetitive and since I’m a serotonin depleted ipad kid maybe I needed the Right On tempo switch earlier. 4 saved children, bc I’ll be coming back to some songs, but not all :)

Hoffes de marvin hed dich nöd zu fest ufgeilt noah und denn na es weekend warte lah für 5 sternlis? Uf all fäll, ich chume immer meh dri in marvin sound. Spassigs und schöns album gsi. Öb mit ere zigare uf de ledercouch, es tänzli inere 4* lobby oder ere gmüetliche zug/bus fahrt. Das album chan jemensch begleite. Sicher au will ich grad inere jass phase bin aber fühl mich langsam chli weniger strassegängster und biz meh upper class neduzen. Also dünd mich ned duzen 4 freudigi cüplis für das kunstwerk

hey nöd so viel mues no chli worke übers weekend aber sust easy bi dir so? so hetti das usgseh wenn de marvin mir das texted hetti hetter aber nöd, wiemer ja vo de letschte "history with vici" lektion wüssed danke namal dafür ezt aber tum review teil vo dere performance - hanmers album ah jedem tag vo dem wuchenend gönnt und au jedesmal hani de pläsche gha aber ich han ja nie es lied abgspeicheret devo, was ja en grosse teil vo mim gedachte kriterium gsi isch drum hani da namal chli müese hirne und bin druf cho dasis album save no ab und zue lose wird - drum bechunt das album 4 komerzielli ahmachtexts vo mir über: hey was machsch? hey wie gahts? hey gahts guet? hey

There’s something magical about this album. The dreamy warmth of the songs, the way tracks blend together, the impassion wisdom in Gaye’s voice- it feels otherworldly despite being of and about our wounded world. It accomplishes a lot in its brief 35 minutes.

another beauty

The lyrics sneak up on you

Отличный альбом, который сентиментальным тоном продвигает ценности мира и добра, поднимает важные темы расизма, войны и т.д. Так ещё и с невероятно прекрасным исполнением, что буквально уносит тебя в другое место, в моем случае к лодке, которая неспешно плывет по реке где-то в небольшом городе США, пока дождь обливает мою куртку. А идеальное продюссирование дополняет картину. Но все же мне нужно дать чуть больше времени этому альбому, ведь не сказать, что я очень много его слушаю. 9/10

Gaye

A decent soul album, bit one note. Vocals excellent, song writing is fine 3.75/5

Good Album, kinda funky, songs did have a habit of sounding very similar but still not too bad

A little samey for me vs let’s get it on but still wonderful

I'm not a huge fan of Soul music but this album is pretty good. I don't have much else to say as I'm not too familar with the genre.

What’s Going On - 7.9/10 What’s Happening Brother - 8.4/10 Flyin’ High (In The Friendly Sky) - 7.0/10 Save the Children - 6.5/10 God Is Love - 8.2/10 Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) - 8.1/10 Right On - 7.5/10 Wholy Holy - 6.6/10 Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) - 10/10

Smooth

Lovely instrumentation. Sentimental vocals. I need to return to this one later to reevaluate

An absolute classic. One of the best soul albums of all time.

Smooth vocals delivering a genuine and heartfelt message.

4.5

Excellent. Among the very best.

Al Green yesterday Marvin Gaye today. Gaye's falsetto crooning is perhaps the defining sound of this album - backed by grooves that weave between heavy pockets and lighter passages with ease. It seemed like this album was a big leap for him thematically, moving away from the overtly clean suit and tie doowop love songs, to something more existential, open-ended, and funky all the same. Not the most surprising pick, but Mercy Mercy Me is my highlight here -- What's Going on is so culturally significant that I'm sure most everyone already knows it.

Goodie

одиннадцатый студийный альбом американского музыканта Марвина Гэя. Этот альбом является концептуальным и состоит из девяти песен, большая часть которых переходит в последующий трек. Его также относят к вокальному циклу, поскольку альбом заканчивается повтором вступительной композиции. В текстах песен повествование ведётся от лица ветерана Вьетнамской войны, вернувшегося в страну, за которую он воевал, и не увидевшего ничего, кроме несправедливости, страданий и ненависти очень коммерческий успешный альбом с первого трека подумала что будет реп, но нет оказалось соул. включила сразу клип заодно, очень трогательный. музыка очень понравилась в целом я думаю под него хорошо гулять, он очень что называется cozy и спокойный но при этом не фоновый и не скучный потом еще узнала как он умер — он вмешался в ссору его родителей и его отец выстрелил в него дважды. это было за день до его 45 летия

Buja. Zaangażowana politycznie muzyka z charakterystycznym zaśpiewem. Podoba mi się, ale nie wrócę do niej. Doceniam całokształt, ale dla mnie ten ciągły strumień podobnych brzmień jest męczący

It was about time I listened this it was SOSOSOSOS GOOD

Ну это неплохо. Не легендарно, но лучше hot buttered soul.

Really solid album with some great tracks.

super cool all the way through

Хорошенький, под настроение

Mjög groovy plata. Söngurinn er smooth as og barna eitthvað. Textarnir eru betri en ég hélt. Höfða til mín, love and rock n roll

9/10 Highlights: What's going on, Flyin' High, Inner City Blues

Sehr schöne Songs dabei und manche die ich noch nicht kannte. Was ein klasse Sänger!

This was darker than I expected, its pretty good but I think I went in with the mindset of it being sexy and smooth and its really not, it get a tad too preachy, but I think I was interested and enjoyed it

Vocally great. Really enjoyed how the album was a continuous piece. “What’s Going On” is one of the most significant songs in modern music history. 4/5 Will listen again

灵魂音乐……嗯是什么呢……

I go out of town once and I miss a banger like What's Going On?!

Very nice

Pretty good, not really got that much to say. I'll need to come back and give this a few more listens Highlights: What's Happening Brother, What's Going On

I want to love this, I just don’t. I remember getting the CD back in the day and being disappointed - I hope hoping for some pub/club bangers I guess. When I first started listening yesterday, I rolled my eyes at that impatience youth, thinking all the beauty and subtly of this album was lost on me. But no, I was right the first time. Yeah, sure, there is tragic beauty on here, but it’s basically the same beautiful track three times and a bit of filler. More of an EP really. Apt for our times, but it has to be a four I’m afraid.

Great look back in time and such a soulful sound

Intensely beautiful story telling. The entire album is a vibe that you genuinely feel.

A classic to be sure. Though I was annoyed when the songs didn't really start it end.

Mellow, smooth, and relaxing; good music to have on while working. Lyrics were boring, I prefer some of his other songs with more personal connections and stories rather than broad strokes of social commentary. Favorite songs were: 6. Mercy Mercy Me 9. Inner City Blues 7/10

Really great songs with social commentary. Overall great but staying at 4 as there's only one legendary song on it

Classic! Miss him.

This is a very charming Soul album with exactly the right length for my taste. The obvious hit here is the opener What's Going On, but after that, the album just .... goes on in the same way, and this is a good thing, for once. 3.5/5

Dece

I understand that the background vocals bring a vibe, but it was too much for me. I do agree with the Apple Music summary; his approach to discussing social issues is relaxed, light, and gentle. I enjoyed the piano and sax. I did like the album overall.

Some bangers and some just good. Marvin Gaye's singing speaks for itself and cool tunes

So smooth, so groovy. Great album.

My fraternity brothers would just blast some Marvin Gay songs on a giant speaker outside another brother's room if they had a woman visiting to annoy them. Anyway, I'm surprised at how religious many of Gay's songs are. Maybe because my association is seeing others use his romantic songs in unholy annoying ways. Good album. Great voice.

he sure sang about god a lot for a guy that also sang about fucking a lot. fav song: inner city blues

An excellent work-from-home album - such easy listening and Marvin's voice is just beautiful. Faves of the album is the titular "What's Going On" and "Save the Children".

What a classic. Kickin off with the gem of the album title track and maintains such a cheery relaxing soulful vibe throughout. I will say though as much as Marvin Gaye is known for being the king of get it on music, I was surprised by the religious tone of several songs lol. Love it though

Marvin Gaye defines smooth. Doesn't matter what he is talking about, although a lot of it is oddly relatable. I almost don't want to like him because it feels semi-bandwagon for some reason. But here I am thinking holy moly this guy is just silky smooth...

Right on.

Kind of disappointed in myself for not connecting with this one much today. I do like, I've purchased it too on vinyl, and I'm a Marvin Gaye fan. But I'm not sure what it is about this album that just isn't hitting today. Maybe in the aftermath of Let's Get It On, I'm just looking for more infectious grooves. This one is airy, ethereal in comparison, and there are more poignant political lyrics (of course, not a surprise that this wasn't the case on an album full of sex songs). Even on a day when I enjoy this more, I still prefer Let's Get It On. I think there's a tendency in music nerds and critics and whatnot to automatically assign extra points to an album for its message. I get it, but I don't think this is better than his album of sexy songs. Still, a great album, an undeniable classic, even if I didn't save many tracks today. Favorite tracks: What's Going On, Flyin' High, God Is Love. Album art: Headshot of the guy standing in the rain, in a raincoat. What is going on, Marvin? I'll listen to the rain any day. 4/5

It's good. I'm in a hurry. 4 stars.

Only having heard Marvin Gaye’s biggest hits, this was my first time listening through one of his albums. It made me want to learn more about his life and wow. I know I am late to this but that’s insane his father shot and killed him. How terrible. He has a lovely voice and this album is full of love and soul. I also was surprised by his love for God. Did not know he sang about such things.

Felt like I was Flyin’ High when I listened to this. Right On. Save the Children.

Just a lovely warm vibe, hard not to move your body. I must confess it’s my first time listening to this classic and I think it deserves more time to fully appreciate. Christie loved it so it gets a bonus star for that.

Love 'What's Going On' and 'Mercy Mercy Me'. Easy listen. 4/5

Rating: 8/10 Sounded pretty same-y but great production and vocals by Marvin Gaye.

Awesome. Great voice, good R&B vibe, clear production. Not every track was a winner, but most of them were.

Beautiful. I accidentally had it set to loop and listened twice. Even better the second time. 9/10

There are only a couple of really good songs on this album, the wonderful production and Gaye's beautiful voice are the highlights here. What a voice! It's so smooth, like being enveloped by warm liquid. The musical arrangements throughout give his voice room to shine, to breathe. Nothing is overpowering, everything here works in perfect harmony, the music compliments the voice and vice versa, with enough space left for the listener to snuggle in and enjoy.

There is something about this album that transcends Soul. Quietest political music ever.

why did this not hit as much as i thought it would! listened 2x

Easy listen

Awesome groves and I love how Marvin has a very unique sound.

Great stuff.

Zijn onze oren verwend aan het raken na 500 platen? Dit is toch best aardige muziek, jarenzeventigsoul doet het altijd goed hier, en toch hoor ik hier ook weer niet zo veel bijzonders aan. Dat heb je wanneer je al twee platen van de man hebt gehad. Een mager viertje.

Some classics

This always shows up on greatest albums lists, topping rolling stone’s 500 in one edition. I’ve always thought this album was just okay. I appreciate the vibe, and I like the fluidity, where the first side is basically one continuous song. I like the overall message- like, we’ve got radiation in the ground, wtf people? And, Gaye’s world hasn’t changed much, just as he feared, cops are still out there shooting innocents. But, maybe it’s because I wasn’t born yet when this came out, I just don’t understand why this album is always cited as ‘the best.’ It doesn’t have much to tick against it, but it also doesn’t have much that brings me back to it on my own. I only listen to it when going through lists like these. What am I missing?

i thought this was going to be a good album but it became great once i learned the background behind it. the songs are smooth and soulful and flow so well together. marvin addresses some big issues in the lyrics but spends far too long talking about jesus for my taste. many of these songs and their messaging still hold up today, which probably says just as much about our modern society as it does this album's quality. i also found it interesting that a third of these tracks had parenthetical phrases in their titles. that's not relevant to anything, i just wanted to make sure everyone else knew. favorites: what's going on, what's happening brother, flyin' high (in the friendly sky), save the children, mercy mercy me (the ecology), inner city blues (make me wanna holler)

What can I say that hasn't already been said about this album? It's great! I very much enjoyed listening to it

I hope one day I will love this as much as everyone else seems to. 3.5/5

A true classic album - other worldly vocals, important political messages that are still relevant today, soul, funk, splashes of jazz and don't forget strong tunes, melodies and groove. Best Tracks: What's Going On; Right On; Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

Classic! The title track is very pretty. A lot of the songs do sound quite similar and they fade into each other a bit. But really nice vibes. I know this is generally considered one of the best of all time, maybe I'm missing something but it doesn't quite amaze me to that level.

Really strong start and really strong finish. A lot of stuff in the middle didn't really live up to the hype, though. Good songs sung with a great voice, but the album overall isn't what I'd call a great album.

Mira, ya es una racha de buenos discos. Este me gusta, incluso a pesar de esas canciones religiosas que tanto me aburren. Es que no se puede negar What's Going On y esta vez he descubierto Mercy Mercy me

4.5/5. Excellent concept, love the way the songs blend together.

A good album to listen to in a quiet moment.

This is a really cool.album with a few fantastic songs. Very much enjoyed.

Unfortunately relevant today. 4/5

The first track was absolutely amazing, and while the rest of the album was great, it wasn’t on the same level.

Perfect soul album, but it's not really one of my personal favourites.

Very enjoyable sound and lyrics.

One of the best albums to listen to with a cup of coffee on a weekend morning.

Cool, not my vibe

What a bloody flawless album. I loved how one song lead into the other like it was one entire piece. It was just soothing, sensual magic. So tight. So clean. Blown away.

Favorite Track: Right On

Some really high highs, some pretty “eh” lows, but overall pretty darn good. Gaye has an amazing voice.

Great album!!

Over klassiekers gesproken zeg, jeeeezus! Wat is dit toch een absolute klassieker van Koning Marvin! Met een duur van een schamele 36 minuten is het lekker kort waardoor ik daar in elk geval eens niet over kan zeuren. Marvins stem is geweldig, de recording is sowieso erg lekker. Enkele hoogtepunten zoals What's going on en Mercy Mercy me knallen uit het album, met de nummers eromheen als een soort soepele overgang(zie bijvoorbeeld God is Love -> Mercy Mercy Me, waar de outro overgaat in het volgende nummer!) Voor mij is niet elk nummer even sterk waardoor het geen 5 sterren is, maar dat dit een fantastisch album is staat echt buiten kijf. Je hoort de emotie en helemaal voor de tijdsgeest is het een ontzettend vooruitstrevend album. Het is gewoon zo ontzettend jammer dat het nog steeds net zo relevant is... FAVO: What's going on?, Flying High, Mercy mercy me, Right On, Inner City Blues

# Playlist Track - What's Going On # Notes - That's some well polished, beautifully produced soul music! - Love the choirs and they complement Gaye's voice nicely. - The speaking parts in "Save the children" it a bit boring

Great album, very poignant of it's time but I do feel it gets a bit repetitive after a while

Great album, this was quite a healing experience after I got his abysmal "Here, My Dear" just a few days ago. I've always appreciated this one for what it is, and really enjoy the title track, Mercy Mercy Me, Right On, and Inner City Blues. But I think maybe you had to be around at the time to fully appreciate the significance of this album (I was not). Elements of it are very dated, particularly the 3 really overtly religious songs. Those just don't do much for me - probably why I'm not really into the more gospel side of R&B. Really solid 8/10 for me though.

mega dobry 9/10

A classic

Poignant and beautifully performed

Great listen. Very much enjoyed this.

Knowing the history of what inspired this record as well as the challenges faced with label heads to get it made makes it all the more interesting when listening. Ranked as the #1 album of all time on Rolling Stones 2020 “500 Best of” list I think is a bit of a stretch, but it does rank up there. Some of the extra long jams are probably the determining factor that drop it down for me.

This really is a masterpiece and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of the genre. The way the songs blend seamlessly into each other make this such a great listen, it’s almost one long epic track.

I enjoy how other song titles are blended throughout lyrics of other songs. Who knew activism and Gawd could sound so sexy.

Marvin is the GOAT of speaking something and then singing the same thing right after. Always surprises me how short this album is and how much it's about the big man upstairs. I know this is considered one of the best albums of all time, but it has always fallen a little short for me. This falls into the Rubber Soul bucket of albums I likely rated too low, but whatever. 4.25/5

Тексты не зашли, но музычка что надо

Really enjoyed this album. It had a clear cut message from start to finish and set out to do more than just entertain.

solid. always enjoyable

Pretty enjoyable, better than the other one.

Definitely better than the divorce album. Maybe not one of the greatest albums of all time for me, but still really good

Flyin' High (In The Friendly Sky)!

Marvin Gaye is going on!

Really, really good. Almost five stars, and I’m on the fence here - could easily go up on a second listen. I’m tired and wish I heard more eloquent comments, but I very much enjoyed this.

Really nice production value and instrumentation propping up Gaye's smooth vocals. The religious ties to it are a little strong for me.

what's happening brother is absolutely becoming one of my likes.

Люблю социальщину в такой музыке

A bit of a snooze at first listen, but really grows after a few more through.

Some good soul that's easy to listen to but does just enough to keep your attention. I must've not paid enough attention because the narrative that everyone raves about was a little lost on me.

Just a sexy majestic voice my god

An unbelievably smooth album… truly just the best!

Sometimes boring, sometimes great!

First track is the best

really great album that’s super funky and really pretty. Lots of current events being tackled through religion, love, and RNB

A timely album with timeless elements.

It’s a vibe, and the urgency of the social issues is real. But it seems heavy handed. Like the ambiance of voices and the hits are great.

Definitely an awesome record though my whole group found it a bit strange that this was apparently voted the best record of all time by Rolling Stone in 2020? That doesn't compute for me at all but this is still an awesome record with tons of soul. It's smooth and sexy and also lyrically a bit political/brash.

Enjoyed great vocals

Great! I only know Marvin Gaye as "the sex music man" and it turns out that's a total disservice. Talented musician, absolutely unfair that he's best known for a meme.

Soft and lush socially charged soul album. Lyrics less preachy.Short and precise even though sounds loose and jazzy. Has great flow. Favorites: What's Going on, Mercy Mercy, Save the children, inner city blues

Classic

I own this one.

Great vocals. I didn't know he was religious.

An undeniable classic but I have trouble lumping it in with my personal favorite albums. Perhaps the 'song cycle' structure makes it so not enough of the songs stand out? There are only like 4 songs on here that really make me perk up and the rest just kind of doesn't excite me to that level.

Already listened.

That’s a fun one.

brillante, un poco mucho GOOD VIBES

er het scho e goldigi stimm gha sehr geil wied lieder innenand inneflüssed es isch huere schön aber s passiert gad echli wenig? save the children huere schö SAVE DA BABY?? god is love chli too much aber de seitch zu danke danke ich (d ökologie) insane omg ich bin vill z müed gsi aber ja es isch es huere schöns album aber musikalisch hetmi jz wenig überrascht

Chad

Listened before, solid album 7/10

No one sounds like Marvin Gaye. He is/was truly an original. This really is a protest album masked by such a soulful voice. War, racism, pollution were all addressed on this album. It is definitely one of the best albums to come out of Motown. Marvin could sing the phone book and make it sound soulful - he was a gifted singer and songwriter who made a huge statement with this album.

whats going on - an absolute classic. i love everything about this song. great bass, great lyrics, great harmonies. A real stand out on the album, no doubt. Theres a lot of heart and emotion in this album. You can feel the influence from the war and social issues coming through the lyrics. Overall theres some very nice soulful tunes on this album. However, only one stand out track for me, which means i cant give it a 5.

So good. Classic chill vibe. Beautiful, gorgeous singing. Awesome musicians, tight but relaxed grooves. Only reason I'm not giving it five stars is I have not heard it enough times to deem it a classic, although it probably is one.

Easy to listen to.

He asks the tough questions.

every time i listen it grows on me

4.

Loved this

A legendary album filled with beautiful and magnificent storytelling. Gaye was a master with his lyrics and sound throughout. I've listened to this many times, but each time makes me realize more just how influential this album has been on generations of artists that followed.

Silky smooth. Really enjoyed this album, and the vibes that come along with it.

good, tho too churchy

R&B/Soul. Me ha gustado. Un 4.

I think it's awesome how a record that is basically multiple takes on a single song can resonate so broadly.

Love me some Marvin Gaye.

Can't go wrong with soul music, and can't go wrong with Marvin Gaye.

‘Like a warm summer’s night by the docks’ 7.8/10 - enjoyable listen hosting an array of flavourful instrumentation. The soulful tones formed an engaging story across throughout the. track list. Some sections felt flat and struggled to meet the over ambience the album sets with its highs. Favourite song - Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Best song - Right On

Marvin Gaye. What’s going on. Nuff said.

such a wonderful & joyful album. What's going on & mercy mercy me are the standouts for me. It doesn't have high relisten-ability in my life, but every time it's on I can appreciate how important it was for its time

Phenomenal album, it’s truly one of the greats

incredibly powerful music, feels like it's genuinely challenging the world and established music, which in 1971 I guess it was. 4.4

Bangaa

legally i cannot give this under a 4

listened to the first six tracks two years ago and remember feeling in awe of how lush the production was. pretty immaculate arrangements on some of these tracks. I didn’t pay full attention on this first full listen so I haven’t grasped all of the lyrical content yet, but from what I’ve picked up on in the first third it’s very conversational and feels very natural. his emotions feel so real and naturally conveyed in his performances. need to give this another listen to fully grasp it (which is gonna be the case for most of these albums that I’m listening to for the first time) but this is obviously very good. 7.5-8

"What's going on", "Mercy mercy me (The ecology)" y "Inner city blues" me han encantado. Me gusta como suena el disco en general, con auriculares es un gustazo. Una pena que muriera tan joven.

4.75

Jam after jam after jam after jam. Honestly no stand outs, but just solid throughout. Gaye is definitely going to be more heavily involved in my weekend mornings going forward.

I like how this is just one long song essentially. Couldn't tell where the transitions were at all. Such a smooth flowing album that felt like it was over in a breeze.

Great Monday morning listen. Very chill. Definitely flew by

The album in its entirety is overrated in my opinion. A lot of the interlude elements connecting the tracks I find boring. However at the same time some of Marvin Gayes finest songs are on this album. And that is magic!

It's a classic, I understand that. And from my first listen its a very good listen, but I think I'll perhaps need more time and repeat listens to fully appreciate it.

He's mostly singing about social and environmental issues - so why do get the get the distinct impression that this album is trying to seduce me?

Yes. It’s absolutely lovely. The structure of the album is magnificent how all songs fade into one another. The topics are complex and noble. Marvin is a very talented singer, and the instrumentation is beautiful. I find it a nice background accompaniment.

I love the vibes of this album, Marvin Gaye's voice is so beautiful

Enjoyable listen

Marvin’s best album. Smooth, funky, short and sweet. 8/10

chill album ya dig

Great opener and closer. Solid throughout.

I’m going to finish this tomorrow, but it’s so good. I can’t see myself changing the rating

I can appreciate Gaye's great voice even though the genre is not particularly my favourite and this kind of albums always sound a bit dated to me. The age particularly show in the arrangements; some songs have great background music to go with Gaye's voice, some others are a bit dull and boring with too many strings and mellow melodies. When the brass come or the rhythm kicks in, it's another story!

Wow. Entire album is deep

A very good album. Big on social justice, great musically. Some minor lyrical hiccups - sociopolitical lyrics are hard, but rhyming mercy mercy mercy with fish full of mercury is a bridge too far for me...

Iconic 70s soul

Great album. Not my style but I still enjoyed it.

Excellent! Marvin at his best!

I like it, beautiful, deep but simple

I knew several songs. I enjoyed it. The album did not carry on too long and most songs were appropriately edited. I would listen to it again.