Sometimes, extraordinary depression can lead to extraordinary art.

For quite a while, Marvin Gaye was in a state of despair that led him to attempted suicide, dealing with a painful divorce from his wife Anna (Berry Gordy’s sister), and the death of his singing partner Tammi Terrell while at the prime of her career. He also had a brother who could bring Gaye to tears with his stories of returning from Vietnam and struggling here at home with hatred, prejudice and serious civil disputes.

Somehow, all of this negativity gelled into something positive when Gaye realized that as a performer, he had the ability to make a statement about the state of things, as he perceived them. Gaye was far ahead of the curve, especially considering that his affiliation was with Motown, a label that shied from making political statements. With “What’s Going On”, Gaye ushered in a new era of politically astute rhythm and blues.

Featured tracks include:

What’s Going On

What’s Happening, Brother?

Flyin’ High (In the Friendly Sky)

Save the Children

God Is Love

Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)

Right On

Wholy Holy

Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

May 1971 - Billboard Charted #6