The “Missing Verse” From “What’S Going On” That Was Deemed Too Political

April 1, 2025

Marvin Gaye was a man who poured his heart into every note he sang. In the early 1970s, he had already earned fame with soulful hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” but deep within him was a yearning to address the turbulent world around him. As he watched the news reports of war, civil rights protests, and social injustices, he felt a powerful urge to speak out through his music. This yearning led him to create “What’s Going On,” an album that encapsulated the struggles and hopes of a generation. But there was one verse that would change everything—a verse that would never see the light of day.

This missing verse was fierce and unyielding, addressing issues that many were too afraid to confront. It spoke directly to the heart of the political climate, touching on topics like the Vietnam War and the police brutality that plagued cities across America. Marvin believed this verse had the power to ignite change and inspire a movement. However, when he presented the full song to his record label, they were uncomfortable with its boldness. They deemed the verse too political, fearing it might alienate his audience or even provoke backlash. Marvin was crushed. His passion for truth and justice was being silenced, and it felt like a part of his soul was being ripped away.

But rather than give up, Marvin fought back. He knew that music could be a powerful tool for change. He spent countless hours refining the track, creating a version that included only the verses his label would accept. This act of compromise was painful for him, yet it transformed “What’s Going On” into an anthem for peace and love, resonating with listeners around the world. When the song was released in 1971, it shocked everyone with its emotional depth and poignant lyrics. The gentle melodies wrapped around powerful messages of unity, and people from all walks of life began to connect with Marvin’s music on a level they had never experienced before.

Despite the missing verse, the song reached the top of the charts and became one of Marvin’s most celebrated pieces. It sparked conversations about social justice that resounded through the ’70s and beyond. Marvin knew he had created something special, and it filled him with a sense of purpose. However, he never forgot the verse that had been silenced. It lingered in his heart as a reminder of his commitment to use his voice for the greater good.

Years later, as Marvin continued to write and produce music, he would reflect on that missing verse not as a defeat but as a lesson in resilience. He taught himself that while the world may try to stifle our voices, there’s immense power in persistence. He found strength in his ability to adapt while still holding true to his beliefs. Marvin’s journey became an inspiration for other artists, encouraging them to stand firm in their convictions and to believe that their music could change lives.

In the end, Marvin Gaye’s legacy was not just a collection of hit songs; it was a testament to the power of music as a form of expression. Though the missing verse remained unwritten, its spirit lived on in every note he played and every lyric he penned. By bravely tackling the issues of his time, Marvin left behind a message of hope, showing us all that even when faced with adversity, our voices can rise, and our passions can shine bright, inspiring change in the world around us.