Post by dave910 on May 26, 2008 19:29:10 GMT -5
This Month, my local PBS station has a show called American Masters. Twice a month, the station will air a documentary on a popular American figure. This can range from the fields of business, politics or the arts. This month, there was a special on Marvin Gaye titled: "Trouble Man: the Story of Marivn Gaye.
Check your local PBS listings, some markets may be airing it a second time. This feature on Gaye was well written. Not your typical tale of sex, drugs & rock n' roll. Just a story how Gaye, whom came from humble beginnings struggled with his own identity. Raised by his Mom and his strict father, whom was a baptist preacher. Marvin flourished by using his singing talents in church to hide his pain and gain acceptance from his dad.
I don't want to give too much away. But you know some of the story, Marvin would audition for Motown and become a huge star. While a very handsome man, he always struggled with his own sexual image. This is due to the fact his dad used to dress in womens dresses and was sometimes abusive to Marvin.
But past all his inner demons was a very talented man. Smokey Robinson said he was the most talented person with whom he ever worked. Martha Reeves also told how brilliant the "What's Going On" album was, when she heard the rough tracks. Berry Gordy spoke of his trepidation when Marvin presented the idea for the "What's Going On" record. Gordy liked the idea, but was concerned about Motown's image. The label at this time, usually steered clear of political or environmental statements.
Marvin would also test the boundaries of sexuality with "Let's Get It On". Today this album seems a bit tame, yet it 1974, some felt it was a bit racy. Yet the hits still kept coming. But so did his problems. Marvin suffered through two divorces and a drug addiction which he was shackled through periods of his life.
Gaye's life is an example of how the most gifted people in this world can still struggle with acceptance and love. Even love of oneself.
So if you are able, check out, DVD-R or tivo "Trouble Man".
Check your local PBS listings, some markets may be airing it a second time. This feature on Gaye was well written. Not your typical tale of sex, drugs & rock n' roll. Just a story how Gaye, whom came from humble beginnings struggled with his own identity. Raised by his Mom and his strict father, whom was a baptist preacher. Marvin flourished by using his singing talents in church to hide his pain and gain acceptance from his dad.
I don't want to give too much away. But you know some of the story, Marvin would audition for Motown and become a huge star. While a very handsome man, he always struggled with his own sexual image. This is due to the fact his dad used to dress in womens dresses and was sometimes abusive to Marvin.
But past all his inner demons was a very talented man. Smokey Robinson said he was the most talented person with whom he ever worked. Martha Reeves also told how brilliant the "What's Going On" album was, when she heard the rough tracks. Berry Gordy spoke of his trepidation when Marvin presented the idea for the "What's Going On" record. Gordy liked the idea, but was concerned about Motown's image. The label at this time, usually steered clear of political or environmental statements.
Marvin would also test the boundaries of sexuality with "Let's Get It On". Today this album seems a bit tame, yet it 1974, some felt it was a bit racy. Yet the hits still kept coming. But so did his problems. Marvin suffered through two divorces and a drug addiction which he was shackled through periods of his life.
Gaye's life is an example of how the most gifted people in this world can still struggle with acceptance and love. Even love of oneself.
So if you are able, check out, DVD-R or tivo "Trouble Man".
