Focus Music Notes. "Out of the Blues". Popular music through the decades

Throughout 2021, the world has been celebrating the life and legacy of R&B pioneer Marvin Gaye to honor the 50th anniversary of the release of his groundbreaking record What’s Going On . After half a century, the wisdom behind R&B’s first seamless concept album, What’s Going On , continues to ring true: a poignant plea that we might organize to address often-overlooked issues of inequality and ecological distress. Closing out the year, Motown and UMe are continuing the celebration with the release of What’s Going On: 50th Anniversary 2LP Edition on December 3, 2021 . This premium vinyl release features direct-to-analog mastering from the original primary album tape reels by acclaimed engineer Kevin Gray , one of the first times this has been done since 1971, offering an undeniably authentic listening experience. What’s Going On: 50th Anniversary 2LP Edition bonus LP opens up the album’s writing and production palette. Featured are four rare cuts making their vinyl ...

UK visual artist Dreph has today unveiled a giant public mural in Brixton, London, as part of the global celebrations to celebrate the 50 th anniversary of Marvin Gaye's timeless album, What's Going On The stunning 16-foot piece pays homage to the 40th anniversary of the 1981 Brixton Uprising – a watershed moment for race relations in the UK. Growing tensions around racial inequality erupted into violent clashes between the predominantly Black youth of Brixton and the Metropolitan police force. The uprising was sparked by the same police violence and injustice that Marvin Gaye sang about in What's Going On . The riots took place over three days, devastating the community and injuring over 300 people. Dreph's art represents the musical message of What's Going On , which still held its significance amongst police brutality and racial inequality in 1981 and continues to encourage today's social justice movement. The picket signs reference the ly...