If You Like Marvin Gaye, What’s Going On, Listen to These 4 Albums

Recommendations based on

What’s Going On

By Marvin Gaye

This recommendation by ​​Manu Boubli, Partner of Superfly Records in Paris, France

At Superfly Records, you can imagine we love soul music (as our name indicates!). And when it comes to soul music, the choice of Marvin Gaye’s masterpiece What’s Going On as our best recommendation was obvious. This album is what soul music is all about. It’s such an essential piece of music.

Recommendation #1

Is It Because I’m Black

Syl Johnson

This 1970 soul masterpiece is the perfect companion to What’s Going On. Wonderful voice, great songwriting, and top arrangements make Is It Because I’m Black a super solid album all the way through. The amazing title track is a timeless tune that is still so accurate nowadays. It is super hard to find an original pressing but it is thankfully available as a quality reissue through the great Numero Group label!

Recommendation #2

Hang On In There

Mike James Kirkland

With a strong message and killer groove, the first album by M.J.K. is a true jewel and another one of those ‘70 soul albums that you never get tired of. It was only known by heavy soul collectors until the 1996 reissue by the great West Coast label Luv N’ Haight. Essential!

Recommendation #3

This Is Ann Peebles

Ann Peebles

This Is Ann Peebles is a wonderful female soul LP from legendary Memphis label Hi Records with that unique Willie Mitchell sound! This album has everything, from superb covers of classic tunes (“Chain of Fools,” “Respect,” and  “It’s Your Thing”) to originals to die for (“Give Me Some Credit”). It is surprisingly hard to find original pressings for such a big label release, but a reissue is now available.

Recommendation #4

American Love Call

Durand Jones & The Indications

Time for a contemporary soul album! This 2019 album is good from start to finish thanks to solid production beautifully arranged by talented drummer-singer Aaron Frazer. The huge favorite is “Listen To Your Heart” but there is much more on this LP. If you like it, please check out Aaron Frazer’s debut album, which is another gem of contemporary soul!