Marvin Gaye Returns to Show Who’s The Man
After 47 years, Marvin Gaye’s lost album is finally released for what would have been his 80th birthday.
On what would have been Marvin Gaye’s 80th birthday (April 2nd), Motown has decided to give the fans of “The Prince of Soul’s” music a gift, his 1972 lost album “You’re The Man.” The album was a follow up to his legendary album “What’s Going On,” but was never released due to disputes between himself and Motown label founder Berry Gordy. With the socially conscious album “What’s Going On” (1971) which had gems such as “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology),” “Inner City Blues (Makes Me Wanna Holler)” and of course “What’s Going On,” one can only hope that the relevance of Gaye’s prophetic poetry will be found throughout this album as well.
After the single with the same name as the album’s title flopped back in 1972, Gaye abandoned the entire album together. But, looking back it seems as though the only reason the single wasn’t received well is because listeners were simply not ready to accept the things he was saying. On the single, Gaye sings “Maybe what this country needs is a lady/Is a lady for president.” This single was released as Richard M. Nixon was close to wining his second term in the presidential elections. The entire song shows how much of a visionary Marvin Gaye was.
Gaye not only uses the album to address his political views, but also uses his sultry voice on songs like “Symphony / My Last Chance” to speak about love. These songs as well as another were remixed and produced by SalaAM ReMi.
The album will be comprised of 17 tracks and will be available on streaming services, CD, and Vinyl March, 29th.
Releasing this album after 47 years is not only a blessing to music, but to everyone who will listen. Younger generations will be introduced to the magic of Marvin, while older generations get to relive why he was revered. With Gaye’s everlasting unique sound and ability to speak about relevant real world issues, the album is sure to inspire and feel as if it was made this year.
Happy Birthday Marvin Gaye. You’re the Man.
Markelle Gay is a Performance Arts Major; Journalism Minor from Atlanta, GA
