Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” released in 1971, marked a turning point in his career, addressing police brutality, social unrest, and love for humanity. Initially rejected by Motown’s Berry Gordy, the song became a massive success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the R&B charts for five weeks. Inspired by events like the Watts Riots and conversations with his Vietnam veteran brother, Gaye produced the track himself, blending lush orchestration with raw emotion.
