5 Things to Know About Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’

Gaye produced the album himself It was his first album as sole producer, a role he insisted on to retain control of his artistic output.

The album broke from his earlier Motown sound Gaye moved away from the polished pop and soul of his previous work to address social and political issues.

Motown initially resisted the project The label’s founder, Berry Gordy, disliked the title track and refused to release it, calling it “too political.”

Gaye fought for creative freedom He used his leverage as a successful artist to push for the album’s release, eventually winning Gordy’s approval.

The album became a landmark in soul music Its seamless song cycle and raw, introspective lyrics influenced countless artists and redefined what soul music could say.