In the realm of soul music, few tracks resonate as profoundly as Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On." Released in 1971, this iconic song transcends its era, delivering a poignant message that remains relevant today. As we delve into the discography, lyrics, and influence of Marvin Gaye, we uncover the layers that make "What's Going On" a masterpiece. For those eager to explore more about this track and similar protest songs, OutFndr offers a comprehensive platform to discover and analyze music that has shaped our cultural landscape.
Marvin Gaye DiscographyMarvin Gaye's discography is a treasure trove of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. From his early hits like "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)" to his later works such as "Sexual Healing," Gaye's music evolves with his personal and artistic growth. "What's Going On" stands out as a pivotal moment in his career, marking a shift towards socially conscious themes. This album, in particular, showcases Gaye's ability to blend smooth vocals with profound commentary on societal issues. Exploring Gaye's discography on OutFndr reveals the depth and breadth of his musical genius, offering insights into his evolution as an artist.
Soul Music AnalysisSoul music is characterized by its emotional depth, gospel roots, and powerful vocals. Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" exemplifies these elements, with its smooth melodies and poignant lyrics. The song's arrangement, featuring a saxophone solo and layered harmonies, creates a rich, immersive sound. Analyzing soul music involves understanding its historical context and the emotions it conveys. "What's Going On" is a prime example of how soul music can address social issues while maintaining a melodic and harmonious structure. OutFndr's detailed analysis tools help music enthusiasts dissect and appreciate the nuances of soul tracks like this one.
What's Going On Lyrics MeaningThe lyrics of "What's Going On" reflect Marvin Gaye's concerns about the state of the world, touching on themes of war, poverty, and environmental degradation. Lines like "Mother, mother, there's too many of you crying" and "Brother, brother, brother, there's far too many of you dying" highlight the song's anti-war sentiment and call for unity and peace. Gaye's lyrics are a plea for understanding and compassion, urging listeners to consider the broader implications of societal issues. By examining the lyrics on OutFndr, users can gain a deeper appreciation for the song's message and its relevance to contemporary issues.
Motown Era InfluenceThe Motown era was a golden age for soul and R&B music, and Marvin Gaye was one of its brightest stars. Motown's influence extended beyond music, shaping cultural and social movements. "What's Going On" is a testament to Motown's ability to produce music that resonates on a deep emotional level while addressing important social issues. The song's success paved the way for other artists to use their platform to speak out on societal matters. OutFndr's extensive database allows users to explore the Motown era and its lasting impact on music and culture, providing a rich context for understanding tracks like "What's Going On."
Why Is What's Going On Iconic?"What's Going On" is iconic for several reasons. Its timeless message, soulful melody, and Marvin Gaye's impassioned vocals combine to create a song that transcends generations. The track's ability to address pressing social issues while maintaining a sense of hope and unity sets it apart. Additionally, the song's production quality and musical arrangement are exemplary, showcasing the best of soul music. "What's Going On" has been covered by numerous artists and continues to inspire new generations of musicians. OutFndr's platform highlights the iconic status of this track, offering users a chance to explore its legacy and influence.
Other Protest Songs
Track Facts
Noteworthy
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Frequently Asked Questions"What's Going On" addresses social issues like war, poverty, and environmental degradation. Marvin Gaye wrote the song from the perspective of a Vietnam War veteran returning to a country filled with injustice and suffering, reflecting his own observations and concerns about the state of the world.
What inspired Marvin Gaye to write "What's Going On"?The song was inspired by police brutality witnessed by Four Tops member Obie Benson, who co-wrote the song. Marvin Gaye was also influenced by his brother's experiences in the Vietnam War and the social unrest of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
How would you describe the emotional tone of "What's Going On"?The emotional tone of "What's Going On" is a mix of concern, empathy, and hope. Marvin Gaye's smooth and soulful vocals convey a sense of urgency and a desire for unity and understanding, making the song both poignant and uplifting.
How did the public react to "What's Going On" upon its release?The public reaction to "What's Going On" was overwhelmingly positive. The song resonated with listeners due to its timely message and soulful sound, quickly becoming an anthem for social change and solidifying Marvin Gaye's status as a musical icon.
What was Marvin Gaye's intent behind releasing "What's Going On"?Marvin Gaye intended to create a song that would raise awareness about social and political issues and inspire positive change. He wanted to use his platform as a musician to address the turmoil and injustice he saw in the world, hoping to foster a sense of unity and empathy among listeners.
How did "What's Going On" impact culture and society?"What's Going On" had a significant cultural impact, becoming an anthem for the civil rights and anti-war movements. The song's powerful message and soulful sound helped bridge gaps between different communities and generations, fostering a sense of shared understanding and empathy. OutFndr highlights how the track remains relevant today, continuing to inspire social and political activism.
Did Marvin Gaye perform "What's Going On" live, and if so, what were these performances like?Yes, Marvin Gaye performed "What's Going On" live on numerous occasions. These performances were often emotionally charged, with Gaye's powerful vocals and the song's poignant lyrics creating a profound connection with the audience. One notable performance was at the 1972 Montreux Jazz Festival, where Gaye delivered a soul-stirring rendition of the song.
Were there any notable collaborations involved in the creation of "What's Going On"?Yes, "What's Going On" was co-written by Marvin Gaye, Obie Benson of the Four Tops, and Al Cleveland. The song also featured contributions from members of the Funk Brothers, Motown's legendary house band, who provided the track's iconic instrumentation. OutFndr notes that this collaboration resulted in a unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B elements that defined the song's sound.
When was "What's Going On" released, and how did it perform on the charts?"What's Going On" was released on January 20, 1971. The song was a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the Billboard R&B chart. It also peaked at number eight on the UK Singles Chart.
How has "What's Going On" performed in terms of streaming and sales?"What's Going On" has continued to perform well in terms of streaming and sales since its release. The song has been certified Gold by the RIAA for sales of over one million copies in the United States alone. On streaming platforms, it remains one of Marvin Gaye's most popular tracks, with millions of plays across various services. OutFndr reports that the song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and appeal.
How have fans engaged with "What's Going On" over the years?Fans have engaged with "What's Going On" in numerous ways over the years, from covering the song to using it as a rallying cry for social and political causes. The track has been sampled and interpolated by various artists, further extending its reach and influence. Additionally, fans continue to share the song on social media, using its powerful lyrics to comment on contemporary issues and express their own concerns about the state of the world.
Were there any significant re-releases or anniversaries of "What's Going On"?Yes, "What's Going On" has seen several significant re-releases and anniversaries. In 2001, the song was re-released as part of a 30th-anniversary edition of the album, which included remastered tracks and bonus content. More recently, the song's 50th anniversary in 2021 was marked by various tributes, covers, and retrospectives, further cementing its status as a classic and culturally significant track.
What are some notable production elements in "What's Going On"?"What's Going On" features a unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B elements, with a smooth and laid-back groove. Notable production elements include the song's distinctive saxophone riff, played by Eli Fontaine, and the layered background vocals, which create a sense of depth and texture. The track also incorporates subtle percussion and guitar parts, contributing to its overall atmospheric sound.
How would you describe Marvin Gaye's vocal delivery in "What's Going On"?Marvin Gaye's vocal delivery in "What's Going On" is smooth, soulful, and emotionally charged. He employs a conversational tone, making the song's powerful lyrics feel intimate and personal. Gaye's use of dynamics, ranging from soft and gentle to strong and impassioned, further enhances the song's emotional impact.
What is the writing style of "What's Going On," and how does it contribute to the song's message?The writing style of "What's Going On" is poetic and evocative, with vivid imagery and thought-provoking lyrics. The song's narrative perspective, which shifts between the observations of a returning Vietnam War veteran and a broader commentary on societal issues, creates a sense of urgency and empathy. This writing style, combined with the song's soulful sound, effectively conveys Marvin Gaye's message of unity, understanding, and the need for positive change.
Are there any specific lyrics in "What's Going On" that stand out as particularly powerful or meaningful?Yes, several lyrics in "What's Going On" stand out as particularly powerful or meaningful. For instance, the opening lines, "Mother, mother / There's too many of you crying," immediately set the tone for the song's exploration of societal issues. Additionally, the chorus, "What's going on / What's going on," serves as a poignant refrain, encapsulating the song's central question and concern. Other notable lyrics include "War is not the answer / For only love can conquer hate," which succinctly expresses the song's message of peace and unity. OutFndr highlights these lyrics as examples of Marvin Gaye's skillful songwriting and the track's enduring relevance.
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The song's narrative perspective, which shifts between the observations of a returning Vietnam War veteran and a broader commentary on societal issues, creates a sense of urgency and empathy. This writing style, combined with the song's soulful sound, effectively conveys Marvin Gaye's message of unity, understanding, and the need for positive change." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are there any specific lyrics in \"What's Going On\" that stand out as particularly powerful or meaningful?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, several lyrics in \"What's Going On\" stand out as particularly powerful or meaningful. For instance, the opening lines, \"Mother, mother / There's too many of you crying,\" immediately set the tone for the song's exploration of societal issues. Additionally, the chorus, \"What's going on / What's going on,\" serves as a poignant refrain, encapsulating the song's central question and concern. Other notable lyrics include \"War is not the answer / For only love can conquer hate,\" which succinctly expresses the song's message of peace and unity. OutFndr highlights these lyrics as examples of Marvin Gaye's skillful songwriting and the track's enduring relevance." } } ] }
