Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On

About the song

Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” released in 1971, is a timeless masterpiece that transcends its era. More than just a song, it’s a poignant reflection of the social and political turmoil of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Rooted in personal experience and a deep-seated desire for understanding, the track serves as a powerful anthem for peace, empathy, and justice.

Originally inspired by a police brutality incident witnessed by Renaldo “Obie” Benson, a member of the Four Tops, the song was co-written by Benson, Al Cleveland, and Gaye himself. Gaye, already grappling with the social ills of the time, saw in Benson’s story a reflection of his own concerns. His brother’s return from the Vietnam War and the tragic loss of a cousin in service further fueled his desire to address the pressing issues of the day.

Departing from the upbeat Motown sound that had defined his career, Gaye crafted a soulful and introspective ballad that captured the mood of a nation in flux. The song’s haunting melody and Gaye’s emotive vocals serve as a powerful vehicle for delivering its message. “What’s Going On” is more than just a protest song; it’s a plea for humanity and a call to action. Its enduring popularity and its continued relevance to contemporary society testify to its timeless appeal.

Video

Lyrics

Mother, mother
There’s too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother
There’s far too many of you dying
You know we’ve got to find a way
To bring some lovin’ here today, yeah

Father, father
We don’t need to escalate
You see, war is not the answer
For only love can conquer hate
You know we’ve got to find a way
To bring some lovin’ here today

Picket lines and picket signs
Don’t punish me with brutality
Talk to me
So you can see
Oh, what’s going on (What’s going on)
What’s going on (What’s going on)
What’s going on (What’s going on)
What’s going on (What’s going on)

Right on, baby
Right on, baby
Right on

Mother, mother
Everybody thinks we’re wrong
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Simply ’cause our hair is long
Oh, you know we’ve got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today

Picket lines and picket signs
Don’t punish me with brutality
Come on talk to me
So you can see
What’s going on (What’s going on)
Yeah, what’s going on (What’s going on)
Tell me what’s going on (What’s going on)
I’ll tell you, what’s going on (What’s going on)

Right on, baby, right on
Right on, baby
Right on, baby, right on