What's Going On

Definition

'What's Going On' is a socially conscious song by Marvin Gaye, released in 1971, which addresses pressing social issues such as war, poverty, and civil rights. This song serves as a reflection of the cultural climate of the time and has significant ties to movements advocating for social change, making it an anthem that resonates with various historical contexts in popular music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'What's Going On' was inspired by Marvin Gaye's personal experiences with societal issues, including witnessing police brutality and the Vietnam War's impact on communities.
2. The song marked a departure from Gaye's earlier Motown hits, showcasing a more mature and introspective approach to songwriting and production.
3. The arrangement of 'What's Going On' featured lush instrumentation, including strings and horns, setting a new standard for production in popular music during its time.
4. This track became an anthem for social change and resonated with various movements in the 1970s, symbolizing a broader call for peace and understanding amidst turbulent times.
5. 'What's Going On' received critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying Marvin Gaye's legacy as an influential artist in American music history.

Review Questions

• How did 'What's Going On' reflect the cultural shifts occurring during its release in relation to social movements?
  • 'What's Going On' served as a mirror to the cultural shifts of the early 1970s by addressing urgent social issues like war, poverty, and civil rights. The song's themes resonated with the ongoing Civil Rights Movement, showcasing an awareness of societal struggles. This connection helped it become an anthem for change, urging listeners to reflect on their responsibility towards others in a time of unrest.
• Discuss how Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On' influenced the sound and direction of Motown Records during the early 1970s.
  • 'What's Going On' influenced Motown Records by introducing a more sophisticated sound that emphasized lyrical depth and emotional resonance. The lush orchestration and poignant message marked a significant shift from Motown's earlier pop-centric hits. This evolution encouraged other artists within the label to explore more socially relevant themes in their work, thus broadening Motown's artistic scope during this transformative period.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of 'What's Going On' on contemporary music and its role in ongoing discussions about social justice.
  • 'What's Going On' has had a profound impact on contemporary music by setting a precedent for artists to address social justice issues through their work. Its legacy can be seen in various genres where musicians continue to tackle themes of inequality, war, and human rights. This song has become not just a classic but also a reference point for understanding how music can drive dialogue around critical societal concerns, maintaining its relevance even decades after its release.

Related terms

Folk Music Revival: 'Folk Music Revival' refers to a movement in the late 1950s and 1960s that sought to revive traditional folk music and emphasize its relevance to contemporary social issues, often highlighting themes of protest and civil rights.

Soul Music: 'Soul Music' is a genre that emerged in the 1960s, combining elements of gospel, rhythm and blues, and jazz, characterized by its emotive vocal style and often addressing themes of love, struggle, and social justice.

Civil Rights Movement: 'Civil Rights Movement' encompasses the struggle for social justice and equal rights for African Americans during the 1950s and 1960s, aiming to end racial segregation and discrimination in the United States.'