Prince of Soul

Marvin Gaye

One of the greatest singers of all time. His landmark album "What's Going On" revolutionized soul music and continues to inspire generations.

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Charted Singles

Greatest Album

Grammy Awards

1961

Career Start

The Legend

About Marvin Gaye

The Prince of Soul

Marvin Pentz Gaye Jr. (April 2, 1939 – April 1, 1984) was an American R&B and soul singer, musician, songwriter, and record producer. He helped shape the sound of Motown in the 1960s, first as an in-house session player and later as a solo artist with a string of successes.

His smooth vocals and romantic ballads earned him the nicknames “Prince of Motown” and “Prince of Soul.” Gaye is often considered one of the greatest singers of all time, with a voice that could convey both vulnerability and power.

He initially pursued jazz standards before signing with Tamla Records in 1961. His Motown hits include “How Sweet It Is (to Be Loved by You)” (1964), “Ain't That Peculiar” (1965), and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” (1968). He also recorded beloved duets with Mary Wells, Kim Weston, Tammi Terrell, and Diana Ross.

Known For:

Prince of MotownSoul Music PioneerWhat's Going OnSocial CommentaryR&B Icon

Lasting Impact

His Legacy

Gaye's landmark 1971 album What's Going On is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time — ranked #1 by Rolling Stone in 2020 and 2023. The concept album, told from the perspective of a Vietnam veteran, explored themes of drug abuse, poverty, and war, making Gaye the first male solo artist to place three top ten singles from one album on the Hot 100.

He broke from Motown's production system, paving the way for artists like Stevie Wonder. His late 1970s and early 1980s recordings influenced R&B subgenres including quiet storm and neo-soul.