More than fifty years after Marvin Gaye’s ground breaking 1971 release, the Boston-based independent singer-songwriter Cheryl Craigie steps into the ring with a respectful yet distinctly personal cover of the soul classic “What’s Going On.” Known for her eclectic catalogue that spans folk, country, rock, pop, and deeply personal originals like “Migraine,” Craigie approaches this iconic track with the same heartfelt authenticity that defines her work. Produced in collaboration with long time partner Eric Goldberg and mixed by Lenny Delorey, this rendition pays homage to the original while infusing it with Craigie’s signature warmth and contemporary polish.
Musically, the arrangement strikes a beautiful balance between reverence and refreshment. Shimmering keyboards and smooth, gentle guitars create a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, supported by steady, hard-hitting yet relaxed beats that keep the momentum flowing without aggression. Rich strings add layers of emotional depth, while the production gradually builds with subtle intensity. Layered backing vocals rise in the choruses, evoking a sense of communal solidarity that perfectly aligns with the song’s enduring plea for understanding and compassion. Craigie handles all vocals herself, showcasing strong musicianship and giving the track an intimate, self-contained feel.
At the heart of it all is Craigie’s thick, expressive alto which is honey-drenched and sophisticated. She delivers the lyrics with genuine conviction and sincerity rather than mimicry, making lines like “Mother, mother, there’s too many of you crying” and the iconic call for “some lovin’ here today” feel freshly urgent. Her vocal restraint allows the message to breathe, emphasizing empathy over showmanship. In today’s fractured world of ongoing conflicts, inequality, and division, the song’s themes of peace, love, and unity hit just as hard as they did in the era of Vietnam and civil rights struggles.
Craigie has spoken about the track’s timeless relevance, aiming to honour Gaye’s masterpiece while sharing its sentiments in her own voice. She succeeds admirably. This isn’t a radical reinvention but a loving reinterpretation that highlights the song’s universal power. For fans of soulful covers that prioritize emotion and connection - like those by artists who bridge generations through heartfelt reinterpretation - Cheryl Craigie’s “What’s Going On” is a standout. It’s a soothing yet stirring reminder that some questions remain worth asking, and some messages are worth repeating across eras. In a catalogue already rich with personal storytelling, this release further cements Craigie as an artist with both range and resonance.
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