What’s Going On? – Marvin Gaye
The Kennedy Center is celebrating the anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s performance of What’s Going On at the newly-opened Kennedy Center back in May 1971. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of this event, the Kennedy Center is leading a national conversation around the issues and ideas on the record. “We’re asking young people to think critically about these themes and respond in their own artistic voice.”
“The songs on What’s Going On were united by Marvin Gaye’s dismay about what he saw going on in the world. He sang about the troubles many Americans—especially African Americans—were facing. These woes included the Vietnam War, racism, environmental destruction, poverty, and drug abuse. At times, Gaye was overwhelmed by anger and despair about what was happening. Other times, he spotted glimmers of hope and the possibility of peace and love.” – What’s Going On…NOW? Project
The Project‘s theme is THINK – CREATE – CONNECT. If you visit the What’s Going On…NOW? website you will have the opportunity to engage in the conversation:
Take the time to read and explore the TIMELINE OF THE ERA, THE VIETNAM ERA, THE MUSIC OF THE ERA, and THE ISSUES OF THE DAY.
Explore ARTSEDGE, the Kennedy Center’s free digital resources for creating your video, audio or imagery of your contribution to the conversation. The CREATE page allows you to Choose Your Issue, Grab a Track, Pick A Tool, Create, and Share.
The CONNECT page allows you to check out what others are sharing about what’s happening in their world.
I just found out about the project and had to get this post together. Let me know if you choose to add to the conversation. I would love to hear your thoughts.
Peace and Love
Michelle