Cheryl Craigie revisits Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” with a heartfelt interpretation of the 1971 classic. More than five decades after its original release, the song’s themes of compassion, understanding and concern for others remain at the centre of Craigie’s version, which brings those familiar sentiments into her own voice.
Craigie approaches the song with warm, expressive vocals and an arrangement that keeps the focus on its words. Her version preserves the reflective quality of the original while allowing her own sincerity to come through. It is a song about listening, empathy, and finding common ground, themes Craigie hopes will connect with listeners in the present day.
“What’s Going On is one of those rare songs that remains just as relevant today as when it was first released,” says Craigie. “Its message of understanding, compassion, and concern for one another transcends generations. I wanted to record a version that honors Marvin Gaye’s masterpiece while sharing those sentiments in my own voice.”
The release is Craigie’s ninth and adds another dimension to a catalogue that spans folk, rock, country, pop, rap, Christian music and original songwriting. Her own songs, including “Migraine,” “Soft Place to Fall” and “Martini Morning,” reflect her interest in writing about love and life through meaningful and personal storytelling.
Craigie performs all the vocals and instrumentation on “What’s Going On,” with longtime collaborator Eric Goldberg producing the track. Mixing engineer Lenny Delorey helped shape the final sound, bringing clarity to Craigie’s interpretation while retaining the spirit of the original.
For Craigie, the recording continues a musical journey built around songs that encourage listeners to feel, reflect and connect.
Listen Now:open.spotify.com/album/5koCGV86w9A2
Follow Cheryl Craigie:@cherylcraigiemusic/