Marvin Gaye's landmark 1971 recording What's Going On is one of the most important and passionate soul records ever made and it directly influenced other artists to take greater responsibility in the meaning of their music. Gaye co-wrote the songs and produced the album, a social commentary on an American dream which was increasingly being threatened by urban and environmental problems including unemployment and poverty. What's Going On broke the Motown mold and introduced Gaye as not only the company's sexy prince, but also an uncompromising artist with something to say.