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What鈥檚 Going On Now?

4 Extra Debut. Emeli Sande explores the impact of Marvin Gaye's classic 1971 album What's Going On, and its continuing relevance. From 2021.

In 1971, Motown legend Marvin Gaye released What's Going On.

This was a landmark album that forever changed the sound and subject matter of popular music.

Emeli Sande explains why the album still has relevance and resonance in the 21st century, both musically and politically - an enduring art form that continues to make a statement on behalf of a disenfranchised generation.

Featuring archive interviews with Motown legends who worked with Marvin Gaye, including Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Lamont Dozier and Mary Wilson.

Plus contributions from artists inspired by his masterpiece, such as Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Lionel Richie, Nitin Sawhney, Seal and Corinne Bailey Rae.

There's no contemporary piece of music or art which does more to reflect the emotions and situation of a generation with as much clarity and power as What's Going On.

Five decades after its release, Marvin Gaye's opus remains one of the most acclaimed and influential albums recorded.

A Zinc Media production for 麻豆社 Radio 4, first broadcast in May 2021.

Available now

57 minutes

Last on

Thu 26 Feb 2026 00:00

Broadcasts

  • Sat 8 May 2021 20:00
  • Sat 6 May 2023 20:00
  • Wed 25 Feb 2026 10:00
  • Wed 25 Feb 2026 16:00
  • Thu 26 Feb 2026 00:00