Marvin Gaye was born April 2, 1939. He died April 1, 1984. Therefore, the beginning of April is always a time to reflect on the legacy of the influential songwriter. Raekwon, who just released his studio album, The Wild, has shared "Marvin," a tribute to the late legend as we experience the anniversary of his birth and death.
The song originally appeared on The Wild but has now been shared for free stream on SoundCloud, accompanied by a quote from Gaye from NME circa 1982.
"I don't make records for pleasure. I did when I was a younger artist, but I don't today. I record so that I can feed people what they need, what they feel. Hopefully, I record so that I can help someone overcome a bad time."
Cee-Lo, a singer whose work has undoubtedly been influenced by Marvin, supplies the soulful hook. Meanwhile, Raekwon's verses describe the often tragic life of the great talent all the way up to his shocking death at the hands of his father, Marvin Gay Sr.
Quotable Lyrics:
This little boy quickly became a man
From blowing in his father's church
To making his own band
Called the Moonglows
Sensational with his vocals
That drove the ladies crazy
Panties got thrown at his shows
But he was far from happy
He wore a smile just to hide it behind them doors
Him and his father constantly colliding