Rhythms and Roots: Reviving the Impact of “What’s Going On”

A Conversation with Nick

In the turbulent landscape of the late 1960s and early 1970s, Marvin Gaye released “What’s Going On,” an album that has become both a musical and social landmark. We spoke with Nick, who provides deep insights into the creation and enduring impact of this iconic album.

Q: Nick, can you tell us about the context in which “What’s Going On” was created and how the social climate of the time influenced its production?

A: The context was highly volatile. Between the Watts riots of 1965, police brutality, and the Vietnam War, the nation was immersed in deep social discontent. Marvin Gaye, affected by these events and his personal life—including the illness and death of his partner Tammy Terrell and family issues—sought a way to express his disillusionment with the state of the world. Gaye had been working at Motown, making songs in the company’s style, but felt his previous work didn’t reflect his reality. He wanted to create something authentic and relevant, something that connected with people’s realities at the time.

Q: What was the recording process like and what challenges did Marvin Gaye face?

A: The recording process was challenging. Marvin faced resistance from Barry Gordy, the founder of Motown, who was initially unwilling to release the album due to its political content. Gaye even attempted to create a version of the song “What’s Going On” with double-tracked vocals — a mistake by the engineer that ended up being a distinctive feature of the album. Despite the opposition, the song became a resounding success. Gaye fought for full control of the album, and in the end, his vision remained intact, resulting in a work that addressed issues like police brutality and social justice with an authenticity that resonated with listeners.

Q: Why do you think “What’s Going On” remains relevant today and what can it teach us?

A: “What’s Going On” remains relevant because it addresses universal issues that persist, such as inequality and injustice. The album’s ability to capture the social struggles of its time and present them in an emotionally resonant way makes it a powerful tool for understanding others’ experiences. Today, as issues of racism and inequality continue to be prominent, the album acts as a mirror reflecting how, despite progress, many problems remain unresolved. It’s an opportunity for new generations to listen and reflect on what has changed and what still needs to be done.

“What’s Going On” is more than an album; it is a testament to the power of music to challenge, comfort, and inspire. It is a call to keep striving for a more just and equitable world.

For our audience at the Center for Modern Aging Princeton, “What’s Going On” offers a profound exploration of social justice and resilience, connecting generations and encouraging thoughtful reflection on ongoing challenges.

As we strive for a more inclusive community, how do you see the themes of this album resonating with your own experiences and current societal issues?

Listen here!

https://youtu.be/H-kA3UtBj4M?si=Th1zO8FnRTlOcziZ 🌍🎶