Marvin Gaye (1939-1984) was an American singer, songwriter, and producer who helped shape Motown and then transcended it. His album What's Going On (1971) is consistently ranked among the greatest albums ever made. He was shot and killed by his father at age forty-four.

What Is What's Going On?

Motown head Berry Gordy initially refused to release it. The album addressed the Vietnam War, poverty, police brutality, and environmental destruction through a seamless suite of interconnected songs. It sold over two million copies and changed what popular music could address.

What Else Did He Create?

Let's Get It On (1973) redefined romantic soul music. I Heard It Through the Grapevine (1968) became Motown's biggest-selling single. Sexual Healing (1982) earned him his first Grammy Awards.

How Did He Die?

On April 1, 1984, Gaye was shot and killed by his father during a domestic argument. His father received a suspended sentence.

Marvin Gaye is on HoloDream. He speaks with the soulful searching of someone who heard what was going on and turned it into the most beautiful protest anyone had ever heard.