The Cover Of A Marvin Gaye Song The Doobie Brothers Rehearsed But Never Played Live

April 1, 2025

In the summer of 1974, the Doobie Brothers found themselves deep in the heart of their creative process, working tirelessly on new material for their next album. One day, during rehearsal, they stumbled upon a Marvin Gaye classic that seemed to resonate with each band member. It was “What’s Going On,” a song filled with deep emotion and a powerful message about love and understanding in a world often filled with chaos. As they played around with the song, it felt like magic was in the air; the melody wrapped around them like a warm embrace, inviting them to explore its rich layers.

Although they rehearsed the song many times, the Doobie Brothers never got the chance to play it live. They were known for their own hits like “Listen to the Music” and “Long Train Runnin’,” and they hesitated to share a cover of such an iconic track. However, the experience of working on Gaye’s masterpiece was transformative. It allowed them to connect with the struggles and hopes of the world around them, reminding them of the power of music to inspire change. Each time they played, the lyrics spoke to their hearts, elevating their spirits and pushing them to create more thought-provoking music.

Marvin Gaye, meanwhile, had a tumultuous life filled with ups and downs. His career soared with hits that touched on social issues, but he faced personal challenges that often left him feeling alone. Despite these struggles, Gaye poured his heart into his craft, showing resilience that inspired countless artists, including the Doobie Brothers. They admired how Gaye used his voice not just for entertainment, but to advocate for love and understanding during a time of great social upheaval in America.

As they continued to rehearse, the band members learned to appreciate not only the song but also the hope it represented. The Doobie Brothers took the essence of Gaye’s message and infused it into their own work. They started to write lyrics that reflected their own dreams and concerns, making their music a canvas for their thoughts and feelings. This creative journey led to their album “What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits,” which contained songs that were more than just catchy melodies; they told stories that resonated with their audience.

While they never performed Gaye’s song live, the rehearsal left an indelible mark on the band. It taught them the importance of staying true to one’s artistic voice while also honoring the influence of those who came before. In a world that often seemed dark, they learned that music could be a beacon of light, guiding them and their listeners through difficult times. The Doobie Brothers emerged from that rehearsal not just as a band, but as storytellers committed to spreading love and positivity through their craft.

In the years that followed, they held onto the spirit of “What’s Going On,” knowing that every note they played could inspire someone, somewhere. The rehearsal became a cherished memory, a moment that reminded them of the resilience of artists like Marvin Gaye. It propelled them to keep striving for greatness and to never shy away from the emotions that swirled within them. With each concert, they aimed to uplift spirits, much like Gaye had done, proving that music could truly change the world, one heartfelt song at a time.