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 beautiful copy comes in a vintage Motown Records factory sleeve. The labels look Mint, and the audio on this vinyl pressing is pristine Mint... a real treat! (This scan is a representative image from our archives.)