What's Going On

Definition

What's Going On is a pivotal song by Marvin Gaye that became an anthem of the social and political turbulence in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly focusing on civil rights and social change. The song encapsulates the struggles, hopes, and aspirations of African Americans during this transformative period, resonating deeply with themes of love, peace, and social justice that emerged prominently in soul music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marvin Gaye wrote 'What's Going On' in response to the social unrest following the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement, making it a significant protest song.
2. 'What's Going On' was released in 1971 and quickly became a commercial success, topping charts and earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and meaningful lyrics.
3. The song's lush instrumentation included orchestral arrangements that were not common in popular music at the time, elevating its emotional impact.
4. The message of 'What's Going On' resonated with a generation facing systemic racism, poverty, and war, making it a timeless call for peace and understanding.
5. Gaye faced initial resistance from his record label when proposing the song, as they were skeptical about its commercial viability due to its political content.

Review Questions

• How did 'What's Going On' reflect the societal issues faced by African Americans during the 1960s?
  • 'What's Going On' highlighted key societal issues such as police brutality, poverty, and war that affected African Americans during the 1960s. The song served as a powerful commentary on the struggles for civil rights and social justice, resonating with those who were fighting against systemic oppression. Its emotional depth captured the collective yearning for peace and understanding amidst widespread turmoil, making it an anthem for change.
• Analyze how Motown's influence helped promote 'What's Going On' within American culture.
  • 'What's Going On' was released under Motown Records, which played a crucial role in bringing Black music to mainstream audiences. Motown's established network and promotional strategies allowed Marvin Gaye's song to reach a wide audience, effectively blending socially conscious lyrics with appealing melodies. This helped shift public perception of soul music from purely entertainment to a powerful voice for social change, as it addressed pressing issues faced by many Americans.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of 'What's Going On' on both music and social movements in America.
  • 'What's Going On' has left an enduring legacy not only as a landmark song in music history but also as an inspiration for various social movements. Its themes continue to resonate today, influencing countless artists across genres who seek to address social justice issues through their work. The song has become synonymous with activism, reminding listeners of the importance of empathy and unity while encouraging ongoing dialogue around civil rights, making it a timeless piece in both music and social advocacy.

Related terms

Civil Rights Movement: A social and political movement aimed at ending racial discrimination and ensuring equal rights for African Americans in the United States.

Motown:

A record label founded in Detroit that became a major force in promoting Black artists and shaping the sound of popular music in the 1960s.

Soul Music: A genre that blends elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz, often characterized by its emotional vocal delivery and themes related to the African American experience.