Dear Mr. Gordy,

                The world today is a different place than it was in 1959. Popular music as we see it has undergone a revolution over the past decade. People are not solely interested in bubble-gum pop and love songs anymore. They want substance. They want meaning. They want artists and songs that are conscious of the world. There is even evidence from within our label that these songs have commercial appeal. “The Temptations” have protested the Vietnam war in “Ball of Confusion”, as did Edwin Star in his song “WAR”. These songs are beloved at protests across the nation. There is no question that music with a conscious can be successful.

                I have been with Motown since 1961 as a musician, song-writer, and performer. I have had 10 Top Ten singles in the U.S and recently was successful in producing “The Originals” record. I believe that I have earned enough credit to be granted a certain degree of freedom from the “Motown machine”. My talents cannot simply be constrained to singing whatever a group of executives tell me to sing. It is time for me to articulate what I have to say and fortunately the time is right for that to happen.

                “What’s Going On” is not a typical protest song. It still contains many of the elements that have made Motown into what it is. Consider it a protest song disguised as a soul song. It is not a strange departure from my previous work so my fans will still relate to the music. However, it will reach out to a greater audience who may never have bought a Marvin Gaye album before. It appears to be a safe decision for you, even if it compromises the original Motown values. We should never remain stagnant and rest on our laurels. We should change as the world changes, and believe me, the world is changing.

                This is the most important record of my life. After Tammi died, I didn’t think that I wanted to make music anymore. However, after a while I realized that I could make an impact with my music. I am prepared to go to great lengths to make this album. If necessary, I will do all of the work and contribute my own money. If you deny me of this opportunity, then maybe Marvin Gaye and Motown should be work together anymore.

Sincerely,

Marvin Gaye.