What's Going On/ God Is Love

This was Marvin Gaye's first single after asserting creative control over his recorded work. What most don't realize is that the 45 rpm release was a different mix than the LP cut... and different from what you find on today's stereo reissues. The drums and percussion are mixed much more prominently, while the strings are toned down. The single edits out the jive talk at the beginning of the LP cut, but adds an odd fadeout-surprise-fadein right at the ending. There are other differences as well — for example, the 3:51 LP cut adds finger-popping that's absent from the 45 version. Listening to this version is like hearing this one for the first time!

Note: This is only the second copy we've ever sold at Classic 45s in less than Near Mint condition since opening in 2001. However, now that the tune is out of print on reissue, this recording is simply too important to leave out of the store if the audio is at least Excellent (EX), as on this copy. This copy has beautiful, Near Mint labels and comes in a vintage Motown factory sleeve. The vinyl has scuff marks that indicate some jukebox use, grading EX in appearance. The audio is frustrating... There's no distortion or "pops", but the grade falls in the strong-Excellent range because of a faint layer of surface noise beneath the audio. (I didn't audition the B side of this copy.)