10 Forgotten 70s Singles You Need To Hear
2. Marvin Gaye - What's Going On (1971)
Although Marvin Gaye had gained attention throughout the '60s with Motown records, it wasn't until the '70s that he broke through to become the recognised voice of a genre. His 1973 record, Let's Get It On, saw him internationally recognised as the voice of sensual seduction. There hasn't been another album since, more suited for an evening of romance. The single Let's Get It On has become the default choice for every sexy montage scene in TV and film history.
But before Gaye was wooing people with his silky voice and suggestive lyrics, he released an album that was far more politically and socially conscious. What's Going On revolved around the pain and suffering Gaye witness in America during the late '60s and early '70s. The title track made reference to police brutality, the civil rights movement and the polarising nature of the Vietnam War.
The track was originally written by Al Cleveland, a ghostwriter for Motown records. When Gaye was encouraged to record it, he altered several lyrics after being inspired by his brothers experience in the Vietnam War. You don't get many protest songs as rich in soul as this.