The Best of Marvin Gaye (Motown Anthology Series)
Balancing raw power with shades of vulnerability, Gaye rose to the top of Motown's roster without the benefit of a supporting vocal group. Whether singing love songs or social commentary, Gaye's voice displays an earnestness and sincerity that are a soul singer's most potent weapons. Among these 47 hits are his memorable duets with Mary Wells, Kim Weston, and Tammi Terrell along with Motown staples such as "Can I Get a Witness," "How Sweet It Is," "Ain't That Peculiar," and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine." This 2 CD set also covers socially conscious 1970s originals such as "What's Going On," "Mercy, Mercy Me," and "Inner City Blues." Only his last hit, "Sexual Healing," is left out.--Marc Greilsamer