What's Going On - 40 Years - Radio and Box Set Release

Today May 21st 2011 marks the 40th anniversary of the release of Marvin Gaye's What's Going On album.

While there could be a case made that the over-promotion of such minor anniversary's in the mainstream media actually lessens the significance of the more notable ones, I suspect that such a viewpoint is more of a generation based one. The reaction of one younger member of my household (who has only recently 'discovered' this album) to the news of the 40 year mark and the below release certainly differed from my own.

Anyway to mark this event two notable events to pass on

One - The forthcoming release of a "super deluxe box set" by motown/universal to mark the occasion.

This 40th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition contains 2 CDs + Vinyl LP + Gatefold Booklet with Rare Photos, Lyrics and New Essays.

Highlights include:

* A remastered version of the album plus 28 bonus tracks - 16 unreleased.

* Original mono versions of the LP's hit singles.

* A previously unreleased original `Quality Control test mix' of "What's Going On," mixed before Marvin had added strings, horns and additional vocals.

* Several pre-album outtakes, recorded while Marvin was "on strike," waiting for his single to be released, including "Head Title," now in unedited form for the first time.

* Several post-album instrumental jams with local musicians who included Ray Parker Jr. - a series of recordings made in Detroit before Marvin followed Motown to Los Angeles.

* The original single version of a sequel to the album, "You're The Man," as well as two alternate versions.

* The album's rare, original "Detroit Mix," previously issued on CD for the 30th anniversary, now on vinyl for the first time.

The original announced release date was said to be during this month May 2011, however amazon are now running a june 7th date.

amazon us link @ $45 (the uk has a very high price tag ?)

Two - BBC world service show are broadcasting a radio show presented by Smokey Robinson (which am fairly sure was broadcast earlier as part of a series)

What's Going On - Music That Defined A Decade

To mark the 40th anniversary of one of the most influential albums ever released, Marvin Gaye's What's Going On - which was released in May 1971 - Smokey Robinson explores the social and political impact of this classic album and explains why Marvin's masterpiece still has resonance today.

Link to info and show times, also states will be available as a free podcast/download (you can subscribe now so will automatically get it delivered)

http://www.bbc.co.uk...rammes/p00gnxvs