Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” is more than just a song; it’s a profound statement on peace, love, and understanding in a turbulent world. Delve into the making of this iconic track and its lasting impact, and if you have more questions about music history, social commentary, or anything else, WHAT.EDU.VN is here to provide you with free answers. Explore the message, the melody, and the man behind this revolutionary record; discover its cultural relevance, artistic merit, and enduring legacy today.
1. The Genesis of a Protest Anthem
In the spring of 1970, Marvin Gaye was grappling with personal and societal turmoil. The tragic loss of his duet partner, Tammi Terrell, coupled with his brother Frankie’s harrowing experiences in the Vietnam War, deeply affected him. Frustrated by Motown’s reluctance to address social issues, Gaye sought an outlet for his emotions. The seed for “What’s Going On” was planted when Four Tops member Obie Benson witnessed police brutality against anti-war protestors in San Francisco in 1969. This experience prompted him to collaborate with Al Cleveland on a song questioning the state of the world.
1.1. Obie Benson’s Inspiration
Benson’s initial inspiration stemmed from observing the clash between law enforcement and young protestors in Haight-Ashbury. He wondered why young people were being sent to war zones far from home. The lyrics reflected his contemplation of these issues.
1.2. The Four Tops’ Rejection
Despite Benson’s efforts, the Four Tops declined to record the song, deeming it too controversial. Joan Baez also passed on the opportunity.
1.3. Marvin Gaye’s Acceptance
Benson then presented the song to Marvin Gaye, who immediately recognized its potential. Gaye envisioned it as a vehicle for expressing his own frustrations and concerns. He ultimately agreed to record it himself.
2. Gaye’s Artistic Contributions
Marvin Gaye significantly enhanced the song, adding lyrics and melodic nuances that resonated with the struggles of the marginalized. His contributions transformed the song into a vivid narrative of pain and hope.
2.1. Refining the Melody
Gaye’s musical sensibilities allowed him to refine the melody and make it more emotionally resonant.
2.2. Enhancing the Lyrics
He injected the lyrics with a raw, ghetto-inspired perspective, making the song relatable and impactful.
2.3. Visual Storytelling
Gaye’s additions made the song more visual, enabling listeners to empathize with the subjects.
3. Battling Motown’s Resistance
Gaye faced resistance from Motown executives, including Berry Gordy, who feared the song’s political message would damage his career. Gordy viewed it as a risky departure from the label’s established formula.
3.1. Gordy’s Concerns
Gordy worried that addressing social issues would alienate Motown’s mainstream audience.
3.2. Gaye’s Defiance
Despite the opposition, Gaye remained steadfast in his belief in the song’s importance and its message. He was unwilling to compromise his artistic vision.
3.3. Breaking the Mold
Gaye’s determination to release “What’s Going On” challenged Motown’s traditional approach to music.
4. Innovative Recording Techniques
Gaye employed innovative recording techniques, blending orchestral arrangements with street sounds to create a unique sonic landscape. He paid for the recording sessions himself, demonstrating his commitment to the project.
4.1. David Van De Pitte’s Arrangements
Arranger David Van De Pitte initially doubted the song’s potential due to its unconventional sound.
4.2. The Funk Brothers’ Contribution
The Funk Brothers, Motown’s house band, added their signature groove to the track.
4.3. Detroit Symphony Members
Gaye incorporated members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra to enrich the song’s texture.
5. Serendipitous Musical Moments
The song benefited from happy accidents, such as Eli Fontaine’s saxophone riff and the accidental discovery of the counterpoint lead vocal. These spontaneous moments added depth and character to the recording.
5.1. Eli Fontaine’s Saxophone
Fontaine’s impromptu saxophone warm-up became the song’s iconic opening.
5.2. Accidental Double Lead Vocal
Engineer Ken Sands’ mistake led to the discovery of Gaye’s signature double lead vocal technique.
6. Overcoming Quality Control
Motown’s quality control board initially rejected “What’s Going On,” but the song’s power ultimately prevailed. Only Stevie Wonder supported the song within the company.
6.1. Initial Rejection
The quality control board deemed the song unsuitable for release.
6.2. Stevie Wonder’s Support
Stevie Wonder was the sole member of the board who recognized the song’s brilliance.
6.3. Gordy’s Attempt to Block Release
Berry Gordy tried to prevent the song’s release, calling it “the worst thing I’ve ever heard.”
7. Immediate Success and Lasting Impact
“What’s Going On” was an instant hit, resonating with audiences and critics alike. It reached number two on the Billboard Pop Chart and paved the way for the groundbreaking album of the same name. More than just a chart-topper, the song became a timeless spiritual anthem.
7.1. Radio Airplay and Sales
The song quickly gained popularity on the radio and sold over 100,000 copies in its first week.
7.2. Chart Performance
It reached number two on the Billboard Pop Chart and number one on the R&B Chart.
7.3. A Spiritual Anthem
The song transcended its commercial success, becoming a powerful message of hope and unity.
8. Gaye’s Vision of Righteousness
Marvin Gaye viewed “What’s Going On” as a divine message of love and reassurance. He believed he was an instrument through which God was offering comfort to a confused world.
8.1. Offering Love and Reassurance
Gaye saw the song as an opportunity to offer love and reassurance to people in need.
8.2. A Divine Instrument
He considered himself a vessel for a higher power, conveying a message of hope through his music.
8.3. Addressing Confusion and Uncertainty
The song resonated with a world grappling with social and political upheaval.
9. The Enduring Legacy of “What’s Going On”
Decades after its release, “What’s Going On” remains relevant, continuing to inspire and challenge listeners. Its themes of peace, justice, and environmental awareness resonate with contemporary issues. The song’s message is still current today.
9.1. Continuing Relevance
The song’s themes of peace, justice, and environmental awareness remain relevant today.
9.2. Inspiration for Social Change
“What’s Going On” continues to inspire social activism and promote dialogue.
9.3. A Timeless Masterpiece
The song’s artistic merit and cultural impact solidify its status as a timeless masterpiece.
10. Frequently Asked Questions About “What’s Going On”
Here are some frequently asked questions about Marvin Gaye’s iconic song:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What inspired “What’s Going On”? | Obie Benson’s experience witnessing police brutality against anti-war protestors and Marvin Gaye’s personal and social frustrations. |
| Who wrote “What’s Going On”? | Obie Benson, Al Cleveland, and Marvin Gaye. |
| Why was the song initially rejected by Motown? | Berry Gordy feared the song’s political message would damage Marvin Gaye’s career. |
| What are the main themes of the song? | Peace, love, understanding, social justice, and environmental awareness. |
| How did Marvin Gaye enhance the song? | He added lyrics, melodic nuances, and a raw, ghetto-inspired perspective. |
| What recording techniques were used? | Innovative techniques blending orchestral arrangements with street sounds. |
| What was the song’s chart performance? | It reached number two on the Billboard Pop Chart and number one on the R&B Chart. |
| Why is the song considered a spiritual anthem? | It offers a message of hope and unity, resonating with audiences on a deep emotional level. |
| What is the song’s lasting impact? | It continues to inspire social activism and promote dialogue, remaining relevant decades after its release. |
| Where can I learn more about Marvin Gaye’s life? | Numerous biographies, documentaries, and articles explore his life and music; you can always ask WHAT.EDU.VN for more information about this topic or any other that sparks your interest. |
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