Marvin Gaye
The essential Marvin Gaye records, ranked — where to start and what to reach for next.
-
1What's Going OnMarvin GayeStart here
What's Going On
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.
-
2Let's Get It OnMarvin GayeEssential
Let's Get It On
A landmark of sensual soul, lush and intimate, home to its iconic title track. Warm and influential. A genre cornerstone.
-
3I Want YouMarvin GayeClassic
I Want You
A lush, sensual concept album of slow-burning soul. Smooth and beloved. A high point.
-
4Midnight LoveMarvin GayeClassic
Midnight Love
A smooth, comeback peak, home to 'Sexual Healing'. Sleek and beloved. A late high.
-
5Trouble ManMarvin GayeDeep cut
Trouble Man
A lush, jazzy soundtrack peak of cinematic soul. Smooth and beloved. A cult favourite.
-
6Here, My DearMarvin GayeDeep cut
Here, My Dear
A raw, sprawling divorce concept album of startling candour. Bold and reappraised. A cult favourite.
- What's Going On from What's Going On · on Best Songs of the 1970s, Best Soul & R&B Songs of All Time, Best 1970s Soul & R&B Songs
- Let's Get It On from Let's Get It On · on Best 1970s Soul & R&B Songs
Tracks we've featured in our best-of lists — tap a title to find it on Amazon Music.