Literally, I got chills at the start of writing about the Prince of Soul Music, Mr Marvin Gaye. Let’s talk about the man who sang the smoothest, suavest and soulfulest rendition of The Star Spangled Banner.

Marvin came along with the start of Motown Records in the 60s, part of a sound machine that would change music as it was known. Berry Gordy knew what he was doing when he signed Marvin on. Most times.

I mean, he was talented, good looking and carried himself like a gentleman, being raised in the church and all. Women at the church loved on him ’cause he was a young talent that shot a spark up their old loins when he opened up to sing. They’d take to hugging on Lil Marvin after a hymn. He must’ve gotten plenty whiffs of dried powders caked in their chest.

Innumerable times, I’ve listened to Here, My Dear. He takes listeners through a chronology of love, pain and self-healing, laying his heart and vulnerabilities on the line for all the world to hear and ponder their own situation.

March of 1970 sent Marvin into deep depression after losing his singing partner, Tammy Terrell. Being a socially conscious man, Marvin then recorded What’s Going On the same year but like The Supremes’ Love Child, Berry Gordy wasn’t into anybody putting out conscious music. He just wasn’t that kinda guy.

Well, Marvin decided against releasing anything ’til this important piece of music was heard. He got what he wanted the following year and within a month, it shot to no. 1 on the charts. The singles to follow were Inner City Blues and Mercy, Mercy Me. The year following, Billboard named him ‘Trendsetter of the Year.’ Goes to show you have to take charge of the folk in charge sometimes.

Mr Marvin Gaye, your foresight was much needed in What’s Going On. We are still asking the question. Rest in Love, Prince.