A seamless song-suite on war, poverty and the environment, Gaye's defiant break from Motown's hit factory. Lush, jazzy and politically urgent, it reframed what soul could address. Often called the greatest soul album ever. Released in 1971, it's an early landmark for Marvin Gaye.
On vinyl: Vintage copies and modern reissues both circulate — worth comparing condition and remaster notes before you buy.
Vinyl and CD links go to Amazon search results; listening links open Amazon Music. New to Amazon Music? Start a free trial → As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases and sign-ups.
- What's Going On on Best Songs of the 1970s, Best Soul & R&B Songs of All Time, Best 1970s Soul & R&B Songs
We don't reproduce full tracklists — only the songs from this record we've featured in our best-of lists.
More from Marvin Gaye — where to go next
If you have What's Going On, these are the Marvin Gaye records worth reaching for next.
-
1
What's Going On1971 · you're viewing this oneStart here
-
2
Let's Get It On1973 · Soul & R&BEssential
-
3
I Want You1976 · Soul & R&BClassic
-
4
Midnight Love1982 · Soul & R&BClassic
-
5
Trouble Man1972 · Soul & R&BDeep cut