What's Going On

Such a groovy album that never lets up, and much more about positive messaging and humanitarian concerns over his other thirsty album.

iconic

Soft and soulful. Didn't really strike me right for get a 5, but was good

Much better than the earlier Marvin Gaye album on this list. Songs flow together beautifully, the vocals are on point (of course), and the backing instrumentals are good too. Above average and would consider listening to again in its entirety. 7.5/10 (3.75/5)

Overall just a solid album with good vocals and a nice band

Marvin Gaye's voice alone carry's this record.

My last favourite track is the title track... The rest is great though.

What’s Going On Flyin’ High Mercy Mercy Right On Feels majestic. Almost makes me imagine ascending into the sky. Fills the room with beauty. Ending wasn’t as amazing as the beginning but was still good

Wish it was longer!

As Spencer distinctly put it, I am definitely a Gaye guy. Like any other elementary school kid, I was infatuated with him after titans and then developed a true romance after some contestant on American idol performed “you’re all I need to get by” (I’ve tried looking up and down to find out who it was but alas, I cannot. Regardless, it really made me look into Marvin more). I did struggle in giving this a four because it has one of my fave songs of all time with inner city and obvs what’s going on is an American staple. Whenever I listen to this on vinyl, I very actively listen to those two songs and then for the middle section kind of just casually listen. So I did have to go back and reevaluate a lot of the middle songs. Gaye’s voice and music style is on another level and already take each song to a higher tier than plenty of his contemporaries but I can’t in good conscious say that these middle songs (for me personally) are life changing. I’m sure the meaning behind the lyrics are incredible and obviously he touches on a number of bold themes of God, racism, environmentalism, and so on, which at this time is I’m sure an achievement in of itself. The last thing I wanted to say about this album is the “free flowing” aspect in which most of the songs seamlessly blend together has not aged well for me personally. This is not Gaye’s fault at all and I think I’ve read somewhere that this is one of the first albums that has done that. Unfortunately this has been done and copied ad nauseam in modern music that it just annoys me. I have no problem with it as a musical device and honestly it works perfectly for this album, it’s just the whole, being born in a different era thing and having heard it to diminishing returns so many times. Now, as for the song “what’s going on”, plenty has been written and documented about the importance of this song in post Vietnam protest song culture and for good reason and I really don’t have anything too unique to add. The one thing I’ll say is just how poignant the phrase “what’s going on” is to truly describe the indescribable of war and its tumultuous effects that literally transcends to this day. True poetry. The first 40 seconds of inner city changed my musical life. I remember exactly where I was the moment I heard it. That single repeated distorted Eb minor7 chord, then the bongo, then the sultry scat, and then finally a bass line that will make yo panties drop. Just perfection. Like an ogre, there are just so many layers to this song that are all beautiful by themselves and make a perfect song. I feel guilty in loving this song because of its lyrical content and what black people during this time must have gone through but man does Marvin just put it all on the line. I really want to give this album a five just because of this song. (Of note John Mayer does a cover of this song that has aged extremely poorly unfortunately). Also I find it comical that rolling stone retroactively made this album their number one album of all time after they got so much shit in not having any black artists in the top 15. It’s a little too late RS.

Absolutely an album I expected to see at some point on this list. Between the talent of Marvin Gaye and the social commentary, this is not only a great album to listen to but an important work of art in American history. It’s brief, but the only reason that’s bad is because I want to hear more of Marvin’s voice.

The songs all flow into each other on this album, and not in a bad way. It's not just one really long song split up into sections. It's a really cohesive album from start to finish. It's almost hard to see how some of these songs became standout hits when the album works so well together as a whole. It's short, It's strong, hard not to love this one.

Easy listening. Beautiful voice.

I may be wrong but I think he might have been a jesus fan. Classic album but I need to be in a specific mood for it. This album demands rainy days and much looking out of the window whilst self reflecting. Sadly its sunny today so I'm gonna put on some twisted sister instead

An enjoyable, easy listen.

First time listening to Marvin Gaye, really liked it

So good. First time I listened to it I didn't really pay attention but songs were getting stuck in my head so I've listened to it 3 times already. Marvin Gaye has so much influence in all my favorite genres

What a wonderful album , great production, amazing concept , love IT

DER Klassiker! Schwer nicht zu mögen. Säusel auf hohem Niveau. Ach das war nett damals (:o)

All time album but all the songs kind of sound the same.

Timeless, ahead of it’s time

A wonderful feel good soul album. I can see myself revisiting this when I need a pick me up.

Great album. Listened to it once when I was younger but couldn't get into it. Right time/age now. Appreciate him not overdoing it and making an hour long 14-track album which kneecaps most of the best ones. Few weaker, softer, more biblical tracks stop the covered 5*, but it sure comes close. 4.5*

4.5 - great chilled album!

Stoned and spiritual!

What a voice.

still going on, marv

Beautiful

mmmmmmmm Marvin

Really nice

Like a perfect album. Really strong messaging, though not too specific, that’s important to be expressed especially at the time. It rocks. RIP.

3/18/24. Marvin Gaye is one of the best singers we’ve had. Songs here flow beautifully into each other and carry a significant message that still resonates today. Also love the classic R&B sound with the Philly-soul elements.

Smooth and enjoyable

vibez

The first 2 songs' titles make it seem like he is really confused

3.7

The title track is very groovy and a very good song the second song is much slower but still very strong this album works as both a good album and also a strong statement

The album is good. Many of the songs easily blend from one to another.

Smooth and soulful, definitely a nice listen. There are some really cool grooves in here. If I was more into R&B or Soul I would give this five stars, but four stars.

Easy listen, nice groove and a sense of cohesiveness.

Good

I really just equate Marvin Gaye with date night music, but this album was much more than that. There's some really good, deep lyrics in this album that surprised me. The title track is fantastic, and it sets the tone for what is a lovely album all around. Maybe could've used a bit more variety, but Gaye knew his sound, and he leaned into his strength well.

It’s pretty damn good.

Let's go baby, I'm in for some soullllll. Though its themes are a little overly saccharine for me. God is Love is a little too much. Inner City Blues is a bop though.

Great album. Love Marvin, and overall good vibe from this one. Very soulful and peaceful.

Mercy me

Awesome grooves and a lot of soul.

I'll give it a four. It didn't really chime with me yesterday (probably because there are about 10 versions of the same song on the Deluxe version of the album I was listening to) but its undoubtedly a good listen.

Great album

Classic bedroom music 7/10

"What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye, released in 1971, is a timeless masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of traditional soul music. The album is a concept album that addresses social and political issues of the time, including poverty, war, and environmental degradation. Tracks like the title track "What's Going On," "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)," and "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)" are not only musically captivating but also lyrically profound, showcasing Gaye's vocal prowess and songwriting genius. Musically, the album blends soul, jazz, and gospel influences, creating a lush and immersive sound that perfectly complements the album's lyrical themes. Overall, "What's Going On" is a groundbreaking album that remains relevant and impactful to this day. It earns a solid 4/5 rating for its artistic vision, musicality, and cultural significance.

A stone cold classic.

Mjög gott concept albúm. Vel gert. Góð ádeila. Geggjuð rödd.

This album has definitely stood the test of time. The production and lyrics hit, and if you told me this came out in the last 20 years I would’ve believed you. Favorite track: Title Track

A question asked in the early 70's, in the most beautiful way ever, Gaye's voice, that can be asked in today's world. Just what is going on? This an album with some many beautiful lyrics that are still relevant in the world today. This album is not only beautiful, you can feel his pain and yet, remains just a wonderful listen. These are the albums I live to hear. You FEEL his music, his words, his wonderful gift of a silky smooth voice. Ready the story behind the album made the listening experience even better. One of my favorite songs by Gaye is the opener What's Going On and have to be honest and say I probably didn't get the message of the song until this week. Shame on me. Listening to the entire album, his messages, the struggles and still be a sensual album is not easy to do. But damn, it's Marvin Gaye. This guy is definitely one of the best ever. Top 3 for me, What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me and Inner City Blues. I'm not going to rip of the flute parts in Right On. Ha. 4.5

Such a great, sweet listen. 4 stars

Really good, very listenable enjoyed from start to finish

Rien à dire de plus, un classique. 9/10

I love everything about this except the percussion

I must admit I listened to this one without paying too much attention. It's Marvin Gaye, potentially good and transformative for its time. I'll listen to it again later just to be sure, but I'll give it a 4-star rating just based on my confidence, even knowing I didn't even note when it finished in my listening session.

There are 3 great tracks here - the title track, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) & one of my all-time Gaye faves - Inner City Blues(Makes Me Wanna Holler). That’s enough to make this a great record, although I have to say the other half-dozen tracks don’t thrill me greatly. Still, the big three are outstanding, for many reasons & there’s no doubt that this album had enormous influence over the music that was to come. A great listen.

Classic, and we already own collector's vinyl.

To be honest, I always thought this album was overrated and I still think it's the case. Nevertheless... It's still a great smooth soul/motown album and considered its reputation, a spot on the 1001 is well deserved. I'm not a fan of Marvin's way of singing, but musically speaking, the strings arrangements are brillant here and the percussions are creative, varied and well done.

immense levels of grooviness. 4/5

Beautiful music

- production is so pretty i love the strings and the chorus and everything - marvin gaye's voice is so beautiful - the music kinda has a hazy dreamlike quality esp with the chord progressions which use lots of extended chords esp extended minor chords and the progressions aren't straightforward pop progressions theyre like slow shifting backgrounds so each time you shift to a new chord it isn't clear where in the cycle you are and you just get like lulled in and also each song transitions smoothly into the next one, also the production contributes to this to bc its so full bodied and theres so many different parts and instruments so the texture is always so filled up and its just like this luscious shifting soundscape that envelopes you - i know this is not very insightful at all because im so unfamiliar with this kind of music so im really just noting the most obvious and characteristic traits of it - but anyways the warm, encompassing, slightly meandering nature of the music is the perfect accompaniment for the sentiments expressed in the lyrics of peace and love, and against war and pollution. its like the music creates the tranquility gaye advocates for god thats so corny but yeah - the final song stands out a bit stylistically compared to the rest of the album i feel like it has a stronger groove and a clearer structure with a slow build in the instrumental and strong hooks - my thoughts are kinda dumb asf im just not familiar enough with this music to give any real insight but you know what i enjoyed listening to the album it was something new for me and there was a lot of beauty in it and i felt very at peace

Super great. Almost a 5, but I think the whole album is a little disconnected.

Classic album. Solid outing.

Eerder geluisterd en natuurlijk een tragische antiheld dus extra interessant

Beautiful voice, soulful stories sung through music.

Good

Gorgeous.

Beautiful sounds on this album, the vocals, the bass sounds and bass tones almost pushed this album to be my first 5 Star. This album yet sorrowful still grooves. Songs bleed into eachother artfully with consistently beatufiul instrumentations and compositions to make this album so cohesive and epic. For me this is a super strong 4, almost my first 5 Star Rating.

he sounds beautiful

Tight. Inner city holler!

Great

Rhythm section is insane. Crystal clear vocals. Marvin has a silky voice. Consistent themes and has something to say. Save the Children is amazing. Nice building string section. Love the consistent tempo. Lack of variety at times. Mercy mercy me is great. Very soulful. Really like it but don't absolutely love it. 4 for me! Breakdown on Right On is sick.

Very cool

The best opening track that the rest never quite match, great album overall

ein/zwei gute Tracks, Rest so lala

"Father, father. We don't need to escalate. You see, war is not the answer for only love can conquer hate." What's Going On is the best Marvin Gaye song and generally one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard, both lyrically and sonically.  Best Song: What's Going On Worst Song: N/A PS: Mercy Mercy Me is also fantastic song

Cada vez disfruto más de los álbumes souleros y funky. Empezó fuerte, pero no terminó de mantener el hype.

duplicate

I have to force myself to make it through this album, not because it's poor but because it seems to be the same song again and again. All very similar sounding tracks. But making the effort does pay off, his vocals are as plaintive and angelic as you'd expect, and the over-reaching sense of hopelessness and futility in a world going off the rails is annoyingly still pretty relevant. A benchmark album in terms of creative freedom and political awareness... just maybe not quite the musical epic it is made out to be.

What a wonderful voice! I knew the two famous songs of course, Mercy Mercy Me and What's Going On, but hadn't ever listened to the album before.

What’s going on

Classic.

Classic.

Fantastic listen, not the first time I have heard this album. This album is an all time classic. Very smooth and easy to listen to.

Smooth, elegant, wonderful, dreamy but very powerful

BL: Second Marvin Gaye album I've received on the generator. I liked the previous album but my major gripe with it was it's length, I think it did not justify it's runtime. I will see if this record does. AL: I liked this. I didn’t think it was anything mind blowing but it was incredibly listenable and the instrumentation and production is absolutely at its best here. Some tracks are very recognisable, and some are album cuts but all were enjoyable. Didn’t have a single song I disliked to be honest. FT: “What’s Happening Brother”, “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)”, “Inner City Blues” 4/5

i’d love to give it 5 stars but sometimes it veers into self-parody

Perfect album for a rainy day. Makes me nostalgic for a time in music I wish I was around for. Beautiful intro to the album with the title track. Great consistency and mood for next couple of songs Most likely good for slow lovemaking Does slow down a tad too much at the end. And the theme musically and lyrically is done so well in the title track as an intro, the middle fails to return to that peak. But then, what an ending! Great song to close out the album. Hell of a voice

"Modern Day Marvin Gaye" would be a fantastic cover band name.

What’s Going On and Inner City blues were the strong points of the album.

First Marvin Gaye album I’ve fully listened to. Almost every song was added to my playlist and I will definitely be returning to it for samples

Tre riktigt bra låtar (What’s going on, Mercy mercy me och Inner city blues). Resten är helt okej utan att sticka ut, men med ett genomgående härligt sound. Att låtarna går över i varandra ger en trevlig helhetskänsla. Lite för mycket predikande och jidder om Jesus tyvärr.

Fantastic album. Needs more listens, but 4/5 for now!

Sweet sweet protest

À peine deux secondes ont fallu pour que mon sexe durcisse comme de la pierre et pointe vers le plafond. Rien d'anormal, Marvin Gaye est la référence absolue de l'ultra-sexual-soul.

Good shit

Great voice, but some underwhelming songs in between

This album is a powerhouse. Songs are great, vocals great, instruments great. You can listen to it so easily

Not something I would listen to often, but beautiful. Just not a 5 for me though but very close.

Not only is What's Going On seamless, the transitions are all effortless. A little different each time, that is, crafted but not, like the record putting you back at the beginning with theme instead of sound cue.

Beautiful. The title track and Mercy Mercy Me are five star songs, and the rest of the album is delightful.

Pretty great, though very repetitive. One song out of the lot doesn’t really work for me, the rest is very very good.

I like it and understand how great it is. It’s just too much non-melodic sing-talking for me.

Very solid soul/R&B/Motown sound. I like how smoothly the songs transition from one to the next. This was the 3rd Marvin Gaye album I've gotten so far, the guy just makes smooth music

What's Going on is a classic song. Standouts: What's Going On, Mercy Mercy Me, What's Happening Brother, Inner City Blues, Save The Children, God is Love. 4/5

Although this album was written in thr 1970s about the social issues of that time, it could have been written yesterday because the same social issues persist today. 3 stars for the music alone, 1 more for the hood social message

I tried to listen as unbiased as possible even though I hated Marvin Gaye because my mom would play it over and over and over and over again. I really enjoyed the album it feels like a timeless album of being a black man in the city. My only knock is the first six songs sound literally like one extended song for better or for worse

Great sound, definitely ideal background music for me. I can see how so many artists since then have been influenced by this album - particularly one of my favorites, Silk Sonic (collaboration between Bruno Mars and Anderson.Paak). Only giving four stars because I would definitely use it as background music, and I’m reserving 5 stars for any albums that I would turn on because I want to listen to and engage with the songs.

Me likey

This is a definite step up on other MG albums I've had on the list. The greatest album of all time? Not sure about that.

This album preceded Let's Get It On by only three years?! Marvin Gaye is truly a legend.

Definitely a classic-album. Definitely an exceptional-album. Definitely an album that deserves listen after listen after listen. But definitely not ‘The Greatest Album of All Time.’

Classic

Exactly what Marvin Gaye should be.

One of the smoothest, greatest vocalists of all time. Exceptional soul/r&b songwriting, with some era defining lyrics that paved the way for social justice anthems in all genres. I read Motown sat on "Whats Goin On" for months because it wasn't a love song and they didn't understand it. Marvin threatened to leave the label if they didn't release it. Once they did, and it exploded, it paved the way for artists like Stevie Wonder to write with complete artistic freedom. Legendary.

Fantastic album. wonderful melodies, one of the best, most recognized soul voices, and great instrumentation.

Great album. The music seems very influenced by gospel. Strong cultural message in many of these tracks. Good listening and deep meaning behind the lyrics.

Definitely the best Marvin Gaye album. Amazingly relevant, even now.

It was soothing

Great!!

Really good but the strongest tracks rise above and the way they blend together makes it a slight slog

As good as soul gets. It's clean, honest and overall a great album, by one of the best soul singers of all time.

Great album!

4-4.5 “What’s Going On” was stuck in my head all day, and I think catchy-ness wise, nothing on the album compares. But there are fantastic socially conscious songs that give this album so much depth, and of course Marvin Gaye’s voice isn’t a chore to listen to. I think if I were more into soul this would be the perfect album for me.

Classic album, of course. Not quite a 5 for me personally but maybe I’ll wish I gave it one in the future. Also, James Jamerson tears it up on this album!

Blassic

Album 244 of 1001 Marvin Gaye - What's Going On Favorite Tracks : Mercy Mercy Me While it is unarguably an excellent album, I don't find it to be the "best album ever recorded" as is proclaimed by so many. It was very relevant for the time it was released. Still relevant if you want it to be. A very, very good album, no doubt but I won't put it on that pedestal. I will recommend it to anyone who hasn't listened. While it may not be at the top of my list, it is, no doubt required listening for any serious melophile.

Romantische Musik für einen kuscheligen Abend.

7/10 coffee shop vibes

Still sounds fresh in 2023. The bass and percussion drives everything forward, strings are lush. Mercy Mercy Me stands out and the 7 1/2 minute Right On.

Loved this album! Was quite a bit of a bummer. Talked to social and political themes still applicable to today.

this is my cup of tea

This is really good album. Of course I prefer rap and maybe heavy metal but this album is kind and beautiful

Already heard this one :) really good love it

Some amazing five star tracks on here, and then some overly saccharine preachy schmaltzy ones, and I suspect everyone would draw the dividing line in a different place, heh. "Save the Children" and "Wholy Holy" are on the bad side for me, and probably cost this album a star over all. Fave tracks - "What's Going On", "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)", and "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)" from the original album. "I'm Going Home (Move)" was a highlight from the bonus tracks...

His vocals are amazing and he has an original sound that so many try to imitate. And then there are the percussion instruments.

Wonderful voice and beautiful musicianship

8/10

Good, classic.

You know I always forget about soul music then listen to an album like this and remember it. Good for just chillin’ or basically any type of mood. 4/5

Very solid album. The hits are top tier although I did get a bit bored with some of the in-between. Love me some Marvin G. though.

Really good stuff. A couple of weird things that I just didn't vibe with, but for the most part, a really quality album with some really good vocals and instrumentation. I also loved that each track flowed into the next, made for a really enjoyable listening experience. Could have done without Save the Children. That was just weird.

Pretty decent! Very relaxing sounding, though the music is not very interesting. But still it's not extremely predictable, so that's good.

Maybe this is a victim of its status as one of the great albums but I didn’t come away as blown away as I expected It’s good Very good Not sure I quite saw what puts it in the top echelon though

Good album, enjoyed almost all the songs.

I like this one but don't love it. Very familiar with it and have listened to it lots in the past. Musicianship is excellent throughout; I particularly like the bass, percussion (incl glockenspiel), backing vocals, flute. My least favourite element of the production is Gaye himself. I'm not that keen on his voice and although he's singing about worthy causes it just comes across as a bit naff. I'd rather hear some sleaze or blaxploitation lyrics to be honest! Nice to spot the hip hop samples throughout and I'll still score it well because the music is so good.

No new gems here. The usual songs are still amazing though.

Beautiful soul album - short and sweet. I probably don’t have much more to say that what had already been said by others on this record.

Classic for a reason. An iconic voice. If I'm 100% honest, I'm not totally on board with some of the vocal affectations and broad lyrical focus, so I know I'm gonna be blasphemously low to some. I think as I listen more through the years I'll warm further. Fave track: Mercy Mercy Me

Nearly gave this 5 - it’s an amazingly well produced album where nearly all songs flow together - and some fantastic songs on here too. A couple of the songs get a bit “annoying” though which has knocked one star off. Brilliant album though and listened to it three times yesterday!

listened to again an american postwar classic

I was very impressed by this album I am almost considering giving it a 5 but I think i’d hav to become very familiar i with it but I think this album sounded beautiful and had a clear impact but also a great sound.

Classic! The title song adds a full star on its own. I feel however that there is no single album by Marvin Gaye that reaches far enough. He has so many incredible songs that a compilation would almost reach perfection exept it would feel disjointed. Anyway, as it is this is great album and wonderful concept.

Feels like I now understand a whole slew of cultural, musical references I didn't get before. It's such a sincere album, wrapped in all this smoke and jazz flute. Definitely enjoying the latter tracks more than the earlier. I have to keep reminding myself that "What's going on" pre-dates all the "We are the world" stuff. Maybe it was just more possible to make this kind of cri de coeur back then?

Banger of a classic. Great vibes.

Knocked a whole star off for the song Right On because the grindy percussion element was an assault on the ears. Was loving the album up until then, each track flowed seamlessly into the next. Great musicality, even for a genre I'm not immediately a fan of

Some great songs I hadn't heard of, the the single takes all of the attention

not bad

Een banger 1e klas, smooth tunes en diepe soal. Je moet er wel echt zin in hebben. Ik mis wel een beetje de “sexy” tone die Marvin Gaye zijn latere jaren heeft geschreven, maar het voelt daardoor wel een stuk “puurder” aan.

Nice but a lot of churchy stuff

Good easy listening. Faded well into some background music but there was never really a moment where I was particularly grabbed by it. However for something to have on in the background for a vibe I like it.

Really liked this album. So vibey, listened to it twice in a row. Lauren loved it too. Really like the instruments and the way Marvin sings so softly

Classic. Moving. Sad. Inspiring. Bass with all that movement. Harmonious strings and backing vocals. Spacious Atmos mix on iTunes. Why did we lose this feeling?

There is a reason this album is iconic. It's cohesive and addresses issues that were plaguing society then, and even more so now. This should be an album that everyone listens to regularly.

Very groovy, songs flow well from one another. Got a bit bored by the end.

very smooth i enjoy had it in the background tho and didn't feel invested enough to give it a good hard listen. got a couple good songs offa it

Waking up on a good Wednesday morning not feeling a single worry and thanking god for all the good things in this small world kind of vibe, (4.3/5)

A smooth album overall, not my style, but still a great album.

Nice listening

Very nice, elegant, meaningful, but I do not get the 'best record ever' vibe.

Love some Marvin Gaye great album got to be in the right mood

Beautiful album where the songs just flow into each. 50+ years later Marvin Gaye may just be the coolest person who ever existed.

Marvin Gaye is a treat, What’s going on is such a directed emotional album, puts you in a certain mood listening through it.

i dont love marvin gaye, but whether or not its your favorite, you can tell he crafted this with love and care. bells ruminating in the background, songs blend into the next song flawlessly. its a great album. i just dont love slow soul. no offense. excellent.

Je connaissais cet album avant mais le fait qu'il ne soit pas dans ma rotationest révélateur : c'est un excellent album mais étonnamment je reste à quai un peu trop souvent. Je pourrais écouter plus souvent "What's going on", "Mercy, mercy" et sans doute redonner sa chance. La voix, l'orchestration, le groove de l'ensemble, ça mériterait d'y revenir quand même

Really nice touch imho

What it lacks in punctuation it makes up for in pleather collars. Would be a 5 but for the lack of a question mark and the God stuff

Smooth

Short and sweet! Some highly played songs that I didn't really recognize which was interesting.

very chill jazzy and vibey; i feel like i could fall asleep to it a lot of the songs sound very similar but i still enjoyed listening to them all

Short, solid, quality album that takes you on a journey. I only knew a couple of the tracks, but it felt very complete.

classique. y retourner pour sûr. 8.5/10

nice of him to ask. thank you marvin

Good album - too much god/religion - slightly annoying.

Let’s Marvin gaye and get it on

Rating: 4.3

Marvin Gaye and Incubus being on the same list is pretty bad. Those two things don't belong on the same planet. Man, the high points on this album are like nothing else.

Not sure I can add anything that hasn't been said before. Even my personal reflections feel a bit moot. There's a great biography out there called something like His Divided Self, a window into the sad, strange life of Marvin Gaye.

This was a more morose affair than I anticipated, but yeah - classic for a reason. Surprised by how many versions there were on Apple Music. Anybody listen to "The Detroit mix"?

Good album as a cohesive whole

22nd August 2023 Listened in the morning in bed while having a sleepy baby on me. Who knows how we fill our days now! Powerfully political soul, the title of the album perfectly captures the laid back friendly engagement with the political cry.

damn, no one did soul like marvin gaye. his voice is remarkably smooth, a great accompaniment to the music. i don't think he was capable of making a bad song. his music creates such a sense of calm and contentment, almost making it easy to not pay attention to his significant lyrics. and speaking of--i'd be a fool if i didn't mention the over-arching theme on this album. what's going on reflects issues in society and gaye's changing perspective, a definite turning point of his career. all of the topics are important, even to this day, and gaye gives a lot of social issues significant time on this album, all while making great music. gosh, who knew soul could sound so political yet remain easy listening?

It's a really good album but I just don't like high pitched male vocals. Figure I better give one of his three 1001 offerings a rating above 3

I know this is an important album, the greatest of all time on some lists, and possibly the first Motown protest LP. I like the hits, especially Inner City and the title track, though I agree with the critic who said the party sounds in the background are out of place. Right On has a nice jazzy latin vibe but the remainder of the LP is a bit soft for me.

I get that this is supposed to be a concept album and the songs segue into each other but the entire first side dragged a bit for me. What’s going on is indeed a classic song though. Side two was a bit of a relief because it added a little bit more variety and it ended with the best song in the album in my opinion - Inner city blues. I know this was the “top album of all time” on a few lists, but it got a bit too preachy for me and dare I say it… over produced.

Marvin Gaye is rightly consider a, if not the legend of soul. His voice is so distinctive and evokes pure emotion. I only became aware of the context after listening to the album but the themes of global and social destruction and despair definitely felt prescient

Alright, some Marvin Gaye. Can't go wrong there. What a nice smooth voice. Very nice. 4 stars.

Aaaaaahhh. That's better. Cheers Marvin.

It's got some great tracks ... it's got some alright tracks.

Really enjoyed listening to this album. Seems that the world hasn't changed much since Marvin was singing about "What's going on"

Highlights: What's Going On Leave Em's: Flyin' High (In The Friendly Sky) Overall Thoughts: I am a big proponent for this album as a whole as I think the messages that it pushes are great. This album seems pertinent to today as well and it would be good if more people deeply listened to this record. This album lost points in my book for not having very much replay value, or my thinking that many songs individually were nothing too special. None of the songs were poor per say, but some were slightly boring musically. Marvin's delivery is really good and the instrumentation does a good job or not inhibiting the goal of the album. There is wisdom laden throughout this project but I won't be taking a lot of the individual songs with me when I go. Score Breakdown: 3.700 & 5 -> 4.350

it's what's going on, duh it's good. obvious picks are the opener and closer, but it's generally pretty solid throughout.

Как мне показалось, мы послушали просто мужскую версию Эрики Баду. Разве что аранжировки более симфонические, тогда ещё не придумали ни синтов, ни семплов, ни драмки. Блин, ну кайф-кайфный, мне прям понравилось: особенно, что он не затянут. С удовольствием переслушал ещё пару раз. Прям хорошо.

Fabulous album. I was working the entire time on something and the lyrics kept pulling me back to focus on them. Great empathetic messages the still ring true. Very groovy music. Great all around

An utter classic. Few things sound as good as this album. A watertight backing band and Marvin at the peak of his vocal prowess. The kind of love this album has is interesting-- it's sensual, but not sexual. It's love for your family, your kin, your siblings, your community. A love that there's hopefully a better world down the line, somewhere. Marvin, I really want to be able to say we were able to bring about that better world. I wish I could have more time to digest this album. A high 4/5.

Good soul album that lyrically touches on lots of heavy topics. Gaye's voice is so easy on the ears. No major standout tracks but no duds either.

4.4 Not quite enough to round it up but MWAH. fave songs: whats going on, mercy mercy me

La musique coule de source, on se laisse emporter, si bien qu'il est facile de perdre de vue les messages sociaux importants qui sous-tendent cet album.

4/5. It’s almost a perfect album but some of the songs meander a little too long. The content is so important but I find myself waiting for certain songs to finish to get to the next one. It’s still quite a good album, with a wonderful message and beautiful singing and instrumentation. Just not perfect songwriting.

Some absolute all timers but a slightly soft middle.

This is one of the great socially conscious albums, a thoughtful, elegant rumination on troubled times. It's the greatest work of Marvin Gaye's career, one that still has resonance 50 years later. These songs come across as a series of conversations on war, the environment, faith and social struggle, all expressed with great thoughtfulness and pathos. You can really feel the uncertainty and sadness in Gaye's voice, who has never sounded better. The songs are artful and soulful and a pleasure to listen to. The middle of the album is a little weak, which keeps this from being a solid 5. But it's a unique and unforgettable work, a high water mark of its genre and its time. Fave Songs: What's Going On, Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler), Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Right On, What's Happening Brother

One of my favourites and part of the soundtrack to a lot of my teens.

A little altruistic, but that's what the times called for.

Echt een prachtig album!! Zie dit al helemaal opstaan in de auto naar vakantie oid. N.b: hadden we maar naar Marvin geluisterd in de jaren 70 dat de wereld naar de ju zou gaan 😢😢

Soulful and socially conscious, this album is full of joyful music Trojan Horsing a not so subtle plea for equality, peace, and racial harmony. It’s a cool stylish way of delivering an impactful message.

It's fun to see, at some point, the album tying itself up in a full circle. Otherwise, nice jams. Something I could and would listen to again.

Smooth and an easily approachable sound. The title track and Inner City Blues stand out the most for me... both soulful with a an amazing melodic and groove. Enough of the rest keep the cool vibe going that the album is very enjoyable.

Stronger all the way through than some of his other ones. Good continuous theme as well.

The title track is one of my favorite songs. Such and easy, loose, relaxed tone for kind of a heavy song. Then the second song sounds like it was a demo for What’s Going On… so, ok it’s good but he already captured that on track 1. Mercy, Mercy Me is a near perfect song and another of my all time favorites all the way to the sax solo at the end followed by the unsettling choral bit. The rest of the record is quite good as well.

Really liked it. the title track is a classic.

Considering how much I didn't care for the other Marvin Gaye album we got, I was shocked by how much I liked this one. Great songs and messages and extreemly well made. It's pretty good.

Over-rated, a few good funk tracks, but too much of the album sounds similar, like one very long song. Excellent bass playing and beautiful noble, if naive message. Lovely sound, but just not The Best Album In The World as so many critics claim. Very good all the same.

Another great Marvin Gaye album

Muy interesante tanto en su mensaje como sus melodias. Relisten

Politiek conceptalbum van Marvin Gaye. Het album vertelt het verdeelde Amerika ten tijde van Vietnam door de ogen van een terugkerende veteraan. Hoge productiewaarde en mooie boodschap, met nummers die wel lekker klinken. leukste nummer: Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) Gaye was een voorloper van natuuractivisme door de milieucrisis te behandelen in het nummer "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)". Volgens een verhaal zou producer Berry Gordy niet hebben geweten wat "ecology" betekent.

I always found this album to be a little bit overrated. Yes it has some very good songs (What’s Going On, Mercy Mercy Me, Inner City Blues) and it’s strong evidence of the mastery of Gaye, but what about the stuff in between those 3 songs? Maybe I’m missing something, but it’s a lot of filler in my mind. Also, Save the Children is not a good song. Going against the grain here and giving out a 4.

Very mellow and enjoyable. It would be a great record to put on and relax to. I'm excited for his other albums. My favourite songs were What's Happening Brother, Save the Children, and Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology).

Quite an experience, short enough to listen multiple time in a row. I don't know what it was but I like it... A lot. The musicalities are not too different but there is variety in beats and productions. Not very rememberable... Solid 3.5, leaning on 4.

I liked it, lovely voice

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

A bit too much call and response, but it's smooth as hell. Best track: What's Going On

Cool

Always awesome. Chill and cool.

Nice smooth tunes. Nothing particularly outstanding to me on that listen, but I enjoyed the whole groove throughout.

A solid groove with very politically conscious lyrics. Hard not to enjoy, even on a surface level. Favorite tracks: "What's Going On", "Mercy Mercy Me"

хороший. вечером пришлось кино про Бакли смотреть

I wouldn't say I'm an actual fan of soul music, but fuck it's a nice fun easy listen. I'm already most of the way through and it hasn't annoyed me at all. The vocal lines go on weird detours at times, but that's about the biggest criticism I have. 4/5.

Got to give Marvin a lot of credit for attempting to change the world with a single album. Everything flows together extremely well and the songs are both musically listenable as well as being lyrically important. It's hard to be lectured at for that long though, so I can't give it a full 5 stars even though it might deserve it simply for its importance in musical history. 4.5 stars

I think this exists as less of an album and more a shot in time that weaves together the malaise of the black community in the early 70's. I'll never be able to fully appreciate this album for that. Looking back at this from 2023 and listening to it with my limited knowledge of MG, I do find it eerie and haunting. Like something is gently tugging at me to wake up to something I don't want.

"What's Going On" is iconic, but I actually prefer "Mercy, Mercy, Me." Overall, this album packs such a strong statement, and that message stands as its legacy and warrants its inclusion here, even despite a few weaker tracks and a bit too much praise and gospel for my taste.

Brilliant application of leit motif to a contemporary music album.

It’s amazing in hindsight how wrong people in power can be, to the detriment of their own interests. I’m referring to the struggles Marvin Gaye went through to get this album made, one rated as the greatest album of all time by Rolling Stone and highly regarded by many. Motown executive Berry Gordy didn’t even want to support What’s Going On, one of, if not, the most famous soul songs ever. Gordy reacted somewhere between “that’s the worst thing I‘ve ever heard” to “the sound is out of date.” Motown’s quality control board also turned the song down too. Another Motown exec believed in the song and released it without Gordy’s knowledge. As we now know, it sold absurdly quickly, which finally led Gordy to approve Gaye to write and record his proposed protest album. The obstructions to getting this album concept off the ground is eye opening. The album itself is a good time. The famous songs are famous for good reason. I could do without Save The Children.

Wat een geweldige en sfeervolle plaat. Voor herhaling vatbaar.

Dit vind ik een erg fijn album!

I'm well over 700 albums into this thing and this is the first time I've wondered if it's a mistake to dock an album points for the sins of the genre. What Mr. Gaye has created here is an undeniably great record. The lyrical content is deep and nuanced, heavy and beautiful. His delivery is, by and large, top-notch. The performances by the Funk Brothers are every bit as fantastic as one would expect from some of the greatest studio musicians ever. And yet, I can't quite dig it. There are a lot of elements to this album that just make me shudder. But everything that I dislike about "What's Going On" are staples of the genre and not specific to Marvin Gaye. It's the jazz flutes and the saxophone solos and the weird speaking/singing echo and a dozen more little things that are classic markers of 70s soul. I hate them so much. But should that be counted against Gaye? He's created a masterpiece here. It's exceptional for the genre. But it's also exceptional despite the genre. At the end of the day, I think I still have to count the sins of the genre against the album to some degree. The artist chooses their genre, after all, and they choose what elements of the genre to keep. Marvin Gaye chose this and, while it's an exceptional example of the genre, it still has the cheesy stink of 70s soul.

Very good soul album with great sociopolitical commentary on USA's state at the time. A classic album through and through.

Vietnam war sucks

Really nice album! Perhaps not all songs stand out that much to me, but the overall feel of the album is very nice, and it's something I can definitely see myself revisting, it gives a certain mood for sure - in a good way! In addition, it feels very nicely produced and Marvin is a killer singer!

If I wrote an album about radiation, war, protests, racial tensions and how the world seems to be ending, this would not be it. This album touches on all these subject matters and still manages to feel positive or melancholic at the very least. Enjoyed the album thoroughly as a mood piece and I feel this could become a favorite after a few more listens.

Extreem smooth, hele album is vloeiend.

It’s certainly very very good. I think it’s reached the #1 spot on Rolling Stone due to it just be so timeless and unworthy of any hate. At the same time it touches on many sensitive topics which are still relevant today. I’ll give it an 8 for now but I won’t be surprised if I regret not giving it a 9 or 10. 8/10

He still doesn't know what's going on

Marvin's got soul, there's no denying that. A couple of songs were a little leaning, but overall a great album.

Great album, great voice and emotion

The five-star tracks really are five stars, but this does drop a fraction on side two until the final track. Also think Let's get It On is the better album, so have to be able to recognise that. Definitely a 4.5.

I enjoyed this, rather relaxing and groovy

Excellent piece of Soul that you can sit and chill to.

Wow this Marvin Gaye guy can really sing. That shit was beautiful.

Podświetlenia: Co się tutej dzieje? Wewnętrzny miasto niebieskie (Robi mi chcieć wyć)

The well-known songs on this album are just magnificent. It’s not a perfect album, but it’s pretty good.

Smooth as all hell. A very "loving" album for sure, first time I heard it all in succession and it's quite cohesive in tone and messaging. Not one I wanna listen to all the time, but can't deny it's greatness.

Now this is the best of Marvin Gaye for me. An album through and through. Even though not every song is amazing, I love how all the songs feel so connected.

I’ve listened to this album before but it was assigned so i’ll just listen to it again! I’m pretty sure rolling stones rates it as the best album of all time. I agree even though it isn’t my favorite. I kinda understand it’s significance and for that I know it is deserving. I think i rated it 9/10 on my list last year. I never did finish that list. I gave up around august. Or well I didn’t give up. I just forgot. It was a fun undertaking of mine. I’m kinda doing it again with this thing. 1001 Days. Wow. 3 Years!! We’ll see how I do. That’s the end of this prologue. Here starts the review. 1 - What’s Going On 3:53 — As an opener it’s simply beautiful. It does a good job of introducing me to what this album is going to be about sonically. I didn’t hear the lyrics but I’m about to do that for the rest. 8/10 2 - What’s Happening Brother 2:43 — Initially I didn’t like it because it sounded really similar to the first track but as it’s fleshed out it’s different. It’s its own track. I’m not sure what to call it so i’ll call it decrescendos but for notes (dbfn). These dbfns are absolutely beautiful. They provide a down turning aspect to the song that keeps it unique as it hasn’t been seen on the project yet. It’s a good track. It’s beautiful lyrics and vocals effectively immerse me. 8/10 3 - Flying’ High (In The Friendly Sky) 3:49 — The bass guitar messes me up. It’s not just that though. The entire instrumental and vocals. It creates a sense of despair but also hope. I’m not sure if that’s the intended effect but that’s what it achieves. It makes me picture a dove flying in a war zone. It’s peaceful but it can be shot down at any moment. It scares me but for that it’s beautiful. I’m getting some hints of like anti cold war message. I’m not sure if it is though. Gaye is calling someone or something stupid. I’d like to know what that thing is. 8/10 4 - Save The Children 4:03 —Anti war message. That’s what this is. Or maybe global warming. If so he’s a trailblazer. But as that reddit comment pointed out this song highlights hopelessness. What is being done to help the children of tomorrow. Nothing is being done that’s what. “Such a bad way to live” It is. “Who is to blame when we can’t stop living” Maybe a criticism of capitalism? Or maybe something else. As the song nears its end it begins picking up an aura of action. It calls on people to save the children. Save the babies. Give them a tomorrow. But then thee song back tracks. “Who really cares?” “Who’s willing to try?” No one. No one is. 10/10 5 - God Is Love 1:41 — Already it’s beautiful. It sounds beautiful. It is beautiful. This one promotes religion. Or at least Gaye’s beliefs. The song sings a gospel of love but also respect. Love everyone but also respect what they believe in. That might not be the intended tone as I doubt that’s peoples interpretation but that’s what I pick up. The song ends abruptly though. 8/10. 6 - Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) 3:13 — Alright this one had to be about climate change. Or well that’s what my 21st century mind picks up. He sings about other issues such as radiation and the poison of the planet. These issues very much still exist today. But I interpret this as climate change for that is the pressing issue of today. I think it’s fine. My interpretation is defiantly different but still the same. We both speak about saving the planet. Different issues same problem. It has a nice ending. Good chimes. Good choir. Good jazz. Good song. 10/10. 7 - Right On 7:32 — I’m not sure what this one’s about. Maybe my immersion was broken by responding to a text. Probably. This one doesn’t hit the same though. Nice instrumentals but the vocals seem meaningless so far. Oh alright. Things are starting to pick up. Seems like it’s about the american dream. Or well the american way. It sings about different ways people live their lives here. I think. Oh hey El Classico is on. Yeah no I lost the immersion. The songs alright but kinda long. I find myself constantly checking the time seeing how much I have to endure. “Love, love, sweet love, loveee, wonderful love, ohhh true love, loveee, love for your brother, and love love for —- love ohhh — love.” Heavy love message. Give love and you get love! That’s the message! Is that what i’m getting? I am getting love from the love I give. I think I know but I don’t! I love her though. I hope she loves me. 7/10 8 - Wholy Holy 3:07 — Come together! That’s a The Beatles Song. “Get together, one another, Wholy Holy” Spirituality within a community. “Jesus left a long time ago said he would return he left us a book to believe in and we’ve got a lot to learn”. Interesting the dbfns remind me of that one song by FKA twigs. It’s beautiful. Wholy holy. Salvation in God. Believe in God. 7/10 9 - Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) 5:27 — The last track and it feels that way. Kinda. But that’s just me having stupid expectations. I want the last track to be a victory lap and this isn’t it. Maybe not obviously. Oh woah. Conscription??? A government that has failed you. What has it done for anyone. Nothing. I need to read more about the album before coming to a conclusion. Too bad i’m lazy. Can’t pay taxes. The man who moved to the city only to fail and be hit by reality. Sounds like the cities getting worse. What’s going to happen? Ohhhh racism. Police brutality. I think. Rodney king? No it’s too early. It’s about injustice though. Idk. It’s confusing and I couldn’t catch on. Sorry Marvin Gaye. 6/10. 19/3/23 What’s Going on 35:32 - Marvin Gaye - 8/10

Still fun, still sexy. Well, maybe a little less fun.

Today's album is a concept album by Marvin Gaye surrounding themes of the Vietnam war, and veterans returning home, and the state of the world around that time. The whole album flows together like it is one big 35 minute song. Marvin is a phenomenal soul singer, and the overall message of this album was deep, and real. As applicable to today's society as it was to 1970's America. Overall, a great album today. I got this on St. Patrick's Day, which is traditionally known as a partying/drinking day, so it was kind of a hard day to fully digest this album like it deserves because my mind just wasn't in the mood for mournful, Slow music. I can, however, appreciate the talent that is on this album, and will absolutely revisit this one on a better day to give it the appreciation it deserves! Favourite songs: What's Going On, What's Happening Brother, God is Love, Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology), Right On, Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) Least favourite songs: Flyin' High (In the Friendly Sky) 4/5

Not a soul fan, but there are great tracks here.

marvin gaye <3

A few decent songs but nothing memorable. Very preachy, a bit boring but not bad overall.

6/10

6/10 - It's good but do I go crazy over the Marvin gaye sound? not necessarily, it's ok

Not really what I usually listen to, but the vibes are great. The lyrics are also insightful. Likely good as background music. 6/10.

3+

248. nice

What's Going On Marvin Gaye 1971 Genres: Soul 1. What's Going On (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Pregunta qué está pasando en una sociedad marcada por la guerra, la violencia y la división, y pide comprensión y amor entre las personas. 2. What's Happening Brother (★★⯨☆☆) -Contexto: Un veterano vuelve de Vietnam y descubre desempleo, dificultades económicas y una sociedad distinta a la que dejó. 3. Flyin' High (In the Friendly Sky) (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Retrata la dependencia de las drogas y la búsqueda de evasión emocional frente al dolor y el vacío. 4. Save the Children (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Reflexiona sobre el futuro de los niños y la responsabilidad moral de construir un mundo mejor para ellos. 5. God Is Love (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Afirma que el amor es un principio espiritual y humano capaz de guiar la convivencia y sanar los conflictos. 6. Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) (★★★☆☆) -Contexto: Lamenta la contaminación y el deterioro del medio ambiente, preguntándose qué le estamos haciendo a la Tierra. 7. Right On (★★★⯨☆) -Contexto: Celebra la dignidad, la resistencia y la solidaridad de la comunidad negra frente a las dificultades sociales. 8. Wholy Holy (★★⯨☆☆) -Contexto: Funciona como una plegaria colectiva que llama a la unión, al amor y a una transformación espiritual y social. 9. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) (★★★★★) -Contexto: Describe pobreza urbana, impuestos, violencia, presión económica y agotamiento emocional en los barrios de la ciudad. -Fav -TOTAL = ★★★⯨☆ (3,21)

Fav songs: Right on

Mais ou menos esse aqui. Depois eu dou uma atenção de vdd

I like Mercy Me. I also like the political messaging and how it juxtaposes with the slowness of the tunes, and kinda makes these issues universal and accessible. That bit in right on where it speeds up before slowing right down is good. The song as a whole was really good.

It was good, his lyrics and vocals will always be iconic. Nothing I fell in love with, but something I can definitely listen to and appreciate as art.

Mercy mercy me is the peak of this album. All the other song follow form and feel to the seminal track.

Groovy, mellow background music. A little one note through the album.

Love his voice and the soft vibe is nice although I don’t normally listen to smooth jams. Love “Mercy Mercy Me” which I associate more with Robert Palmer’s cover. “Right On” stood out for its Latin beat (I thought Santana was about to start shredding) and the music in “Inner City Blues” also stood out. The rest fell flat for me. Love the positivity, but hate that these themes still resonate more than 50 years later. Nothing changes, huh?

Marvin alltaf smooth.

Most overrated album of all time. It’s alright.

very jazzy, nice, good background vibe music

Teh Godfather of Funk?

2026.07.21.

Cool but overall nothing that really jumped at me

ok honestly solid - lot of God talk which is cool i guess love the bass on Inner City Blues but idk overall its alright i think generally I like right on as well - flute is fun! i like some of his other stuff but this is pretty solid safe album to like put on with friends/family generally i think i enjoy his stuff after this album tho - solid tho!

The title track is the obvious hit, but I also like that the whole album is playing like a continuous song. All in all though, the rest of the tracks are falling a bit short.

so religious but i enjoyed the beats

This is yet another classic album by an extremely talented man, it's just not for me. 'Save the Children' is a uniquely depressing listen that I was not prepared for while sitting in my air conditioned apartment during yet another concerning extreme heat alert, so that was a fun surprise.

Rolls through like cool water Highlights: "What's Happening Brother", "Right On", "Inner City Blues"

Oikeen solid, monissa biiseissä kiva groove yms. Ehkä hieman itseään toistavaa ajoittain kävikin aika tylsäksi.

Absolutely beautiful sound but a lot of the tracks blur together. I appreciate the intent of the project more than the actual music of it. But the title track remains iconic for good reason. Rating: 3

Album #206 Marvin Gaye: What’s Going On I know it’s sacrilegious, but I’ve always found this album to be overrated. It’s not that I don’t understand the meaning behind the album; I think it’s great that a soul artist decided to focus on politics and real-world issues rather than sex, but I just think that the music itself is somewhat of a letdown. The first half is pretty great and ethereal, with each song seamlessly transitioning to the next, and had Marvin kept up this form, this album would rank quite highly for me. But the second half seems to drag, almost not even registering in my head as music at times. Sure, the sounds are quite pleasant, but I sort of get lulled into a trance by What’s Going On, to the point where I forget what I’m listening to. For an album that is rather short, this is a bit of a concern. I can understand the praise, however, and I’m certain that the problem lies with me, but I’d be lying if I said this blew me away on the same level as other classic albums. Best Songs: What’s Going On, Mercy Mercy Me, Flyin’ High Worst Song: Wholy Holy Score out of 10: 7