What's Going On Album Quiz

Explanation
The album "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye was released on June 21, 1971. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest soul and R&B albums of all time and marked a turning point in Gaye's career, as he shifted away from the Motown Sound and addressed social and political issues in his music. The album includes the title track "What's Going On," which became a hit single and a socially conscious anthem of the era. Other notable songs from the album include "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)," "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)," and "Save the Children."

Explanation
The album "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye was released on the record label Tamla Records, which is a subsidiary of Motown Records. Tamla Records was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in 1959 and played a significant role in the development and success of the Motown Sound, which combined elements of R&B, soul, and pop music. As a part of the Motown family of labels, Tamla Records released many hit records by popular artists like The Supremes, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye, among others. "What's Going On" remains one of the most iconic and influential albums released under the Tamla Records label.

Explanation
The album "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye was primarily produced by Marvin Gaye himself. Gaye also wrote or co-wrote most of the songs on the album, showcasing his talents as both a singer and a songwriter. However, it's worth noting that Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records, played a significant role in the production process as well. Initially, Gordy was reluctant to release the album due to its controversial and political themes, but he eventually supported Gaye's vision and allowed the album to be released. So while Marvin Gaye is credited as the main producer of the album, Berry Gordy also played an important part in its creation and release.

Explanation
The original version of Marvin Gaye's album "What's Going On" includes a total of 9 tracks. The track listing is as follows:"What's Going On""What's Happening Brother""Flyin' High (In the Friendly Sky)""Save the Children""God Is Love""Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)""Right On""Wholy Holy""Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)"Some reissues and expanded editions of the album may include bonus tracks or alternate versions of songs, but the original release from 1971 features these 9 tracks.

Explanation
The single "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye was released on January 20, 1971. The song served as the lead single for his eleventh studio album of the same name, which was released a few months later on May 21, 1971. "What's Going On" became a commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the Soul Singles chart. The song's socially conscious lyrics and smooth blend of soul and R&B made it a defining track of the era and helped establish Marvin Gaye as a leading voice in the development of popular music in the 1970s.

Explanation
Marvin Gaye was a multi-talented musician who played several instruments, but on the "What's Going On" album, he primarily played the piano. Gaye's piano playing can be heard on many of the album's tracks, including the iconic title song "What's Going On," where his melodic and soulful piano chords contribute to the song's memorable intro and overall atmosphere. In addition to his piano playing, Marvin Gaye was also known for his smooth vocals, songwriting abilities, and his skills as a producer. His versatile musicianship played a significant role in the success and lasting impact of the "What's Going On" album.

Explanation
Marvin Gaye was inspired to create the concept for the "What's Going On" album primarily by political and social issues. The 1960s and early 1970s were a time of significant social change and upheaval in the United States, marked by the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and various other political and cultural shifts. Gaye was particularly affected by the experiences of his brother, Frankie, who had served in the Vietnam War and shared stories about the conflict and its impact on soldiers upon his return. Additionally, Gaye was inspired by the social and environmental issues he observed in the world around him, such as poverty, drug abuse, and pollution.

Explanation
The final single from Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" album was "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)." Released in September 1971, the song was the third and final single from the album and peaked at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the Soul Singles chart. "Inner City Blues" is a track that addresses the struggles of urban life, including poverty, crime, and social injustice. The song's lyrics, delivered in Gaye's soulful and emotive vocals, paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those living in inner-city communities, and the song remains a powerful statement on the inequalities that persist in society.

Explanation
A deluxe edition of Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" album was released in 2001. This expanded version was issued to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the original album's release in 1971. The deluxe edition features the original nine tracks, along with several bonus tracks, including alternate versions, instrumental mixes, and a live performance of the song "What's Going On." This reissue allowed fans to explore the album in greater depth and gain further insight into the creative process behind this iconic work. The 30th-anniversary deluxe edition of "What's Going On" served as a testament to the album's enduring relevance and impact on popular music, and it remains a sought-after release for fans and collectors alike.

Explanation
The album produced three singles, showcasing the enduring popularity and impact of Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On' on the music industry.