Marvin Gaye is one of the most popular and revered soul singers of all time. He was known for his smooth vocals and socially conscious lyrics. One of his most famous songs is “What’s Going On,” which was released in 1971. The song was inspired by Gaye’s brother, who had recently returned from Vietnam, and the civil unrest that was taking place in the United States at the time.
Verse 1
Mother, mother
There’s too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother
There’s far too many of you dying
You know we’ve got to find a way
To bring some lovin’ here today, yeah
The first verse of “What’s Going On” addresses the social problems that were prevalent in the early 1970s. Gaye sings about the crying mothers and dying brothers, and how there are too many of them. He calls for love and unity, and for people to come together to make a change.
Chorus
Picket lines and picket signs
Don’t punish me with brutality
Talk to me, so you can see
Oh, what’s going on
What’s going on
Ya, what’s going on
Ah, what’s going on
The chorus of “What’s Going On” refers to the protests and demonstrations that were taking place at the time. Gaye pleads for peace and understanding, and for people to communicate with one another. He asks the question “what’s going on” repeatedly, as if searching for an answer.
Verse 2
Mother, mother, everybody thinks we’re wrong
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Simply because our hair is long
Oh, you know we’ve got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today
The second verse of “What’s Going On” addresses the cultural differences that were present in society. Gaye sings about how people are being judged based on their appearance, and how this is wrong. He calls for understanding and acceptance, and for people to come together regardless of their differences.
Bridge
Picket lines and picket signs
Don’t punish me with brutality
Talk to me, so you can see
What’s going on
What’s going on
Ya, what’s going on
Ah, what’s going on
The bridge of “What’s Going On” repeats the same lines as the chorus, emphasizing the need for communication and understanding.
Verse 3
With the war in Vietnam raging on, Gaye sings about the need for peace and how it is the only way forward. He calls for an end to the violence and for people to work together to create a better world.
Conclusion
“What’s Going On” is a timeless classic that still resonates with people today. Its message of love, peace, and unity is as relevant now as it was in the early 1970s. Marvin Gaye’s smooth vocals and socially conscious lyrics make this song a masterpiece that will continue to inspire and move people for generations to come.
