Marvin gaye whats going on lyrics meaning
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It encourages listeners to reflect on the societal issues and injustices that persist, urging them to seek answers and take action.
As the song progresses, Gaye acknowledges societal judgments, particularly regarding appearances with the line "Mother, mother, everybody thinks we're wrong, simply 'cause our hair is long." This line represents the generational and cultural divides of the era and reinforces the need for understanding and acceptance.
In conclusion, "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye is a poignant commentary on the social and political upheaval of its time.
The profound grief and introspection following Terrell’s passing resonated with the deep emotional undercurrents present in “What’s Going On.” Moreover, Gaye’s documented struggles, including his battles with depression and substance abuse, underscore the song’s poignancy. Despite initial resistance from his record label, Gaye’s conviction in the song’s message and its relevance proved prescient.
Marvin Gaye's Call for Love and Understanding
Meaning
Marvin Gaye's song "What's Going On" is a powerful and timeless anthem that delves into several interconnected themes, emotions, and symbolic elements, all set against the backdrop of the turbulent social and political climate of the early 1970s.
That’s the only way.” And just maybe… through empathy and collective effort, we’ll find the answer to his timeless query, “What’s Going On?”
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“What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye is a profound reflection on the turbulent times of the late 1960s and early 1970s, addressing issues of war, poverty, and civil rights.
Joining at the young age of 17 and subsequently being honorably discharged, Marvin had firsthand exposure to military life, an experience that certainly influenced the anti-war sentiments of “What’s Going On.” As the world listened to the song’s evocative plea, it was coming from a man deeply familiar with the inner workings of the very institution he questioned.
Lyric Analysis: “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
Father, father
We don’t need to escalate
You see, war is not the answer For only love can conquer hate You know we’ve got to find a way To bring some lovin’ here today
Verse 1:
Starting with the lines, “Father, father, We don’t need to escalate,” Gaye directly addresses authority figures — likely referencing both parental figures and broader societal authority.
The song connects to “What’s Going On” by asking how much damage we’ll cause before we finally stop.
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3. It marked a turning point in the journey of Motown’s musical style, proving that songs carrying meaningful social messages could also find a place in the hearts of the masses.
It implies someone is being hurt not because they did something wrong, but because they dared to speak out.
Talk to me (Sister), so you can see (Sister)
Oh, what’s going on
Here, the song pleads for conversation over conflict. Upon its release, it soared, capturing the top spots on both the R&B and pop charts and ensuring the album became a commercial titan, selling over two million copies and steadfastly gracing the charts for over a year.
This song shows that reality and pleads for a way out.
Marvin Gaye wasn’t trying to offer a perfect plan. The pain and suffering of the war led Gaye to question, “Brother, brother, brother, there’s far too many of you dying.” These lyrics now, in the wake of movements like Black Lives Matter, still resonate deeply with African Americans.
Writer of the Song
While Marvin Gaye is the primary vocalist and is often associated with writing “What’s Going On,” the songwriting credits are actually shared between Al Cleveland and Marvin Gaye.
These renditions have not only celebrated the original but have also added unique interpretations, ensuring that Marvin Gaye’s anthem remains fresh and relevant in contemporary times.
The Depth Behind Gaye’s “What’s Going On”
One might be surprised to learn that before launching his legendary solo career, Gaye was part of a boy band called The New Moonglows in the 1950s, performing alongside giants like Chuck Berry.
This work stands as the best-selling album of Gaye’s illustrious career. It pushes for real change and doesn’t hold back, just like “What’s Going On.”
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Conclusion: A Song That Demands Attention
“What’s Going On” asks hard questions and calls people out.
It shows a world full of violence and pain, then demands a better way forward.
The song challenges every listener to stop looking away and start taking action, beginning with understanding, love, and genuine conversations.
Find “What’s Going On” and more great tracks on the Best Songs About Peace list!
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Yet, his message is universal, emphasizing that conflict and aggression aren’t solutions. The song's recurring phrases and imagery underscore these themes, making it a timeless call for empathy and unity in a world marked by division and strife.
Lyrics
Addressing "mother," likely representing motherly care and compassion.
There's too many of you crying
Expressing concern about the number of people who are crying, indicating widespread suffering.
Brother, brother, brother
Addressing "brother," suggesting a sense of brotherhood and unity.
There's far too many of you dying
Expressing distress over the high number of people dying, possibly due to conflict or hardship.
You know we've got to find a way
Emphasizing the need to find a solution or path forward.
To bring some lovin' here today, eh eh
Urging the importance of bringing love and compassion to the present moment.
Addressing "father," potentially representing authority figures or those in power.
We don't need to escalate
Discouraging the escalation of conflicts or violence.
You see, war is not the answer
Asserting that war is not the solution and that love is the only way to overcome hatred.
Reiterating the need to find a path to love and unity.
You know we've got to find a way
Urging the importance of bringing love and compassion to the present moment.
To bring some lovin' here today, oh oh oh
Picket lines and picket signs
Mentioning "picket lines and picket signs," which may symbolize protests and social unrest.
Don't punish me with brutality
Expressing a desire not to be treated brutally or violently as a result of protesting.
Talk to me, so you can see
Encouraging open communication and dialogue to foster understanding.
Questioning the current state of affairs, asking what is happening.
Repeating the question, "What's going on?" to emphasize the need for answers.
Repeating the question, seeking clarity and understanding.
Repeating the question to stress the importance of finding out what is happening.
Referring to the present time, suggesting an urgency to address the issues at hand.
Encouraging positive actions and attitudes.
Acknowledging and supporting brotherhood and unity.
Encouraging a positive outlook and attitude.
Mother, mother, everybody thinks we're wrong
Addressing "mother" again, with a focus on public perception and judgment.
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Questioning the judgment of others based on appearance, specifically mentioning long hair.
Simply 'cause our hair is long
Stressing the need for understanding and acceptance.
Oh, you know we've got to find a way
Reiterating the importance of finding a way to foster understanding.
Urging the importance of bringing understanding to the current situation.
Picket lines and picket signs
Repeating the mention of "picket lines and picket signs" as symbols of protests.
Don't punish me with brutality
Reiterating the desire not to be treated brutally due to protests.
Encouraging open communication and dialogue as a means to address issues.
Emphasizing the importance of talking to foster understanding.
Repeating the question "What's going on?" to seek answers.
Repeating the question, emphasizing the need for clarity.
Asking for information and understanding about the current situation.
I'll tell you what's going on, ooh ooh ooh ooh
Offering to provide insights into what is happening.
Encouraging positive actions and attitudes.
Reiterating the call for positive actions and attitudes.
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“What’s Going On” Lyrics Meaning (Marvin Gaye)
Marvin Gaye’s 1971 single “What’s Going On” became one of the most famous protest songs ever created.
It’s about the struggle to keep believing in a better future while facing real pain.