Lyrics: What's Going On, Marvin Gaye

Background

Marvin Gaye's iconic song "What's Going On" was released in 1971 amidst a turbulent period in American history. The Vietnam War, racial tensions, and social unrest had left the nation deeply divided. Gaye's poignant lyrics and soulful delivery captured the anguish and uncertainty of the time, becoming an enduring anthem of social change.

Themes Explored

The lyrics of "What's Going On" explore a wide range of themes, including:

• War and Conflict: "Brother, brother, there's far too many of you dying"
• Social Inequality: "People don't realize what it's like to live above the ground"
• Environmental Degradation: "Picket lines and picket signs, don't punish me with brutality"
• Hope and Unity: "We've got to find a way to bring some lovin' here today"

Impact and Legacy

"What's Going On" has been hailed as one of the most important songs of the 20th century. It has received numerous accolades, including being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Library of Congress National Recording Registry. The song's message of peace, unity, and social justice continues to resonate with people around the world.

Contagious Despair

One of the most striking features of "What's Going On" is its pervasive sense of despair. Gaye's lyrics paint a bleak picture of a society ravaged by violence, inequality, and environmental degradation. He laments the senseless loss of life in war, the suffering of the poor and marginalized, and the destruction of the planet.

Calls for Action

Despite the despair expressed in the song, Gaye also offers a powerful call to action. He urges people to unite, to speak out against injustice, and to work towards a better future. The lyrics "What's going on" serve as a constant refrain, echoing the need for change and accountability.

Social Change Agent

"What's Going On" has been credited with galvanizing social change. The song's message of unity and hope inspired countless people to become involved in activism, civil rights, and environmental protection. It became a rallying cry for peace during the Vietnam War and a soundtrack for the struggle for social justice.

Jazz, R&B, and Funk Influences

Musically, "What's Going On" is a masterpiece that blends elements of jazz, R&B, and funk. The song features a soulful vocal performance by Gaye, accompanied by lush instrumentation including strings, horns, and percussion. The result is a powerful and emotionally resonant anthem that transcends genre boundaries.

Grammy Awards and Other Honors

"What's Going On" has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Grammy Awards for Best R&B Song and Best Song for Social Change (1972)
• Grammy Hall of Fame induction (1999)
• Library of Congress National Recording Registry induction (2003)

Historical Context

"What's Going On" was released against the backdrop of several major events:

• Vietnam War: The United States had been deeply embroiled in the Vietnam War for several years, and anti-war protests were escalating.
• Civil Rights Movement: The struggle for racial equality was gaining momentum, with marches and demonstrations taking place across the country.
• Environmental Degradation: Concerns over pollution, deforestation, and other environmental issues were growing.

Statistics on War and Social Inequality

According to official estimates:

• Over 58,000 American soldiers were killed in the Vietnam War.
• In 1971, the poverty rate in the United States was approximately 13%.
• Air pollution levels in major cities were significantly higher than current standards.

Benefits of Social Change Songs

Socially conscious songs like "What's Going On" have numerous benefits, including:

• Raising Awareness: They bring critical issues to the forefront of public discourse.
• Inspiring Change: They can motivate people to take action and work towards a better society.
• Uniting Communities: They can foster a sense of solidarity and collective purpose.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing socially conscious songs, it is important to avoid certain pitfalls:

• Oversimplification: Avoid reducing complex issues to simplistic slogans or stereotypes.
• Preaching: Don't come across as self-righteous or preachy.
• Sensationalism: Focus on substance and authenticity rather than sensationalism or emotional manipulation.

Conclusion

"What's Going On" remains a timeless masterpiece that speaks to the human experience of suffering, hope, and the power of collective action. Marvin Gaye's lyrics and soulful delivery capture the essence of a turbulent era, while his message of peace, unity, and social justice continues to inspire and resonate with people around the world.