What’s Going On Now?

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 BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in May 2021.