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. The record that introduced Marvin Gaye to serious listeners.
On vinyl: Vintage copies and modern reissues both circulate — worth comparing condition and remaster notes before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn commission from other retail partners. Links below are affiliate links.
Links open Amazon search results. Watch on YouTube →
- 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